Over the past two decades, the medical community has made significant strides in the treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as with chronic pain through the use of IV ketamine therapy. Remaining the only legalized psychedelic medicine, this innovative approach with ketamine has garnered attention due to its high efficacy and safety profile, supported by extensive research. Despite these promising advancements, many individuals find it challenging to fully lean into the healing process and ‘let go’ during their psychedelic experience with ketamine. But why do people sometimes struggle to embrace this aspect of their therapeutic journey? Let’s take a look into the factors contributing to this hesitation.
One of the most common reasons people initially hesitate to start ketamine therapy is the fear of the unknown. Unlike traditional therapies that involve a more predictable process, psychedelic experiences can be highly unpredictable and subjective. While not technically a classic psychedelic, at low doses, ketamine has psychedelic properties, often inducing a dream-like state of dissociation. The uncertainty of what this may be like can be daunting, especially for those who have never experienced altered states of consciousness. The fear of losing control or encountering distressing thoughts or feelings can create a significant barrier to fully surrendering to the experience, which can in turn, actually make for a more uncomfortable journey. It’s important to note, disassociation does not occur for everyone, and it is not necessary in order to have positive treatment results.
Despite the growing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, societal stigma and misconceptions persist. Many people associate psychedelics with illicit drug use and negative connotations, leading to apprehension and mistrust. Overcoming these deeply ingrained beliefs can be challenging, even when presented with compelling scientific evidence and personal testimonials of positive outcomes with IV ketamine therapy. Ketamine is common medicine that has been used in hospitals for over fifty years, yet many individuals still have limited knowledge of its mainstream use and benefits.
Engaging in a potential psychedelic experience requires a high level of personal vulnerability, trust and acceptance. For individuals with mood disorders or chronic pain, this can be particularly challenging. These conditions may lead to heightened anxiety and fear before their first treatment, making it difficult to feel safe and supported during their first session. Trusting the therapeutic process, the practitioners, and oneself becomes a significant hurdle to overcome. At Innerbloom, patients typically become more and more comfortable with each consecutive infusion, often they end up looking forward to their next treatment!
For some individuals, previous negative experiences with medications, illicit drugs or therapies can contribute to their reluctance to trust the ketamine therapy process. If someone has faced adverse reactions or limited success with other treatments, they may approach IV ketamine therapy with skepticism and fear of experiencing similar disappointments, which is perfectly understandable. Building trust in a new therapeutic approach requires overcoming past traumas and embracing the possibility of a different outcome.
Psychedelic experiences can sometimes be intense and overwhelming. The profound alterations in perception, thought, and emotion can be both enlightening, exciting and even terrifying. The concept of "ego dissolution," where one’s sense of self temporarily dissolves, can be particularly unsettling for those unaccustomed to such experiences. Letting go in this context requires a level of surrender that can be challenging for individuals who are used to maintaining tight control over their thoughts and emotions.
The journey through IV ketamine therapy for mood disorders and chronic pain can be transformative, offering profound healing and relief. However, the path to embracing this therapy fully requires addressing the fears and barriers that prevent individuals from trusting the process. By understanding these challenges and implementing supportive strategies, practitioners, such as our team at Innerbloom, can help patients navigate their psychedelic experiences with greater ease and confidence. Trust, after all, is the cornerstone of any therapeutic journey, and fostering it is essential for unlocking the full potential of psychedelic therapy.
At Innerbloom Ketamine Therapy in San Luis Obispo, we are dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive environment for our patients. Our experienced team, including Dr. Ray Rivas and Cindy Nelson, LMFT, are committed to guiding you through your therapeutic journey with care and understanding, providing the tools for success. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our approach, please feel free to reach out to us.
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