What should I do in preparation for my ketamine journey?

April 12, 2023

 

So you have made the decision to begin ketamine therapy. Now you are wondering how to make the most of each infusion, right?

 

PREPARATION

 

We believe the best place to start is in preparation. This should begin days before your first infusion. Ketamine can cause a non-ordinary state of consciousness so how we prepare can impact our experience. The choices and actions leading up to the infusion can influence the experience. Enter your ketamine journey with an open mind.

 

You are on a journey of healing and recovery.

 

We want you to make the most of this experience so we have some suggestions.

 

Week of infusion:

• Journal beforehand detailing your desired outcomes and goals
• Schedule sessions with your mental health provider/therapist during the weeks of infusions
• Practice positive self-talk
• Meditate 
• Practice establishing healthy boundaries
• Avoidance of drugs and alcohol
• Get a good night's sleep before each infusion
• Give yourself plenty of time before your scheduled appointment so you're not feeling rushed if you experience unexpected travel delays.
• Arrange transportation ahead of time to avoid unnecessary stress. It is advised not to drive for 12 hours after infusion. Your transportation can be a friend, family member, or Uber. It’s up to you!

 

Day of infusion:

• One of the most common side effects is nausea, so we recommend avoiding large meals right before infusions
• An IV will be started, so drinking adequate amounts of water can aid in the IV insertion
• Limit caffeine and tobacco
• Avoidance of drugs and alcohol
• If you are on prescription medications, your Reset Restore MD provider will let you know if any medications should be held prior to or following the infusion
• Dress in comfortable attire
• Bring comfort items (blanket, eye mask, music playlist/earbuds)

 

INTENTION

 

We encourage intention setting for each infusion. Patients are encouraged to reflect on their goals of treatment. Now break that down into smaller pieces.

 

Self-love, happiness, acceptance, strength, forgiveness, positive self-talk, you get the idea.

 

Having an intention prior to receiving ketamine can play a significant role in the session. Your goal is the destination, your intentions are how to get there. 

 

Ketamine causes an increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which increases neurogenesis and neuroplasticity by creating new synaptic connections. The term for this is neuroplasticity. This increase in neuroplasticity allows our brain to be flexible and form new synaptic connections allowing that "flip to switch." Turning those repeated positive intentions into new synaptic connections. 

 

There may be a point during the infusion where you disconnected from yourself or in another world. During this time, it's okay to let go and embrace the journey. 

 

Your brain is most susceptible to change during this time. This period of time is crucial for reinforcing positive change. Be conscious of the time following treatment. Think of this time as an opportunity to somewhat reprogram your brain into the way you want it to be.