Many sufferers of mental health issues like depression and anxiety have found relief from ketamine therapy, so it’s natural to wonder if this drug might be a remedy for insomnia, too. The answer is a little more complicated than yes or no, with more research needed. But those who try ketamine for depression may see improvement in their sleep.
Depression and Insomnia
People who experience depression and anxiety often report suffering from insomnia as well. This compounds their mental health issues because poor sleep can worsen the symptoms of these types of disorders, which in turn can worsen insomnia. Before you know it, each affliction is feeding the other.
Because of ketamine’s reputation as a sedative with a positive effect on mental health, using the drug to treat insomnia may sound like a natural fit. However, used incorrectly, ketamine can actually have a negative impact on sleep. Studies have shown that ketamine users suffered from poor sleep, and even those who used the drug to self-medicate (rather than recreationally) run the risk of becoming addicted. That’s why it’s important to take ketamine in a controlled setting under medical supervision, which can have an overall positive effect on your sleep.
Ketamine for Mental Health
While ketamine for depression may not be a direct remedy for insomnia, this type of therapy does lessen symptoms of depression and anxiety. This in turn may lead to better sleep overall. When a person undergoes ketamine therapy, they usually begin to see their symptoms lessen very quickly, with lasting effects. One study even showed that people who underwent ketamine infusion therapy experienced an increase in hours slept with fewer moments or waking the first and second nights after their session.
When a person combines the positive effects of ketamine for depression with a positive approach to sleep hygiene, they will likely begin to reap the rewards. This includes, following a healthy diet, going to bed at the same time every night, exercising, and getting 7-9 hours of sleep. While none of these is a single remedy for insomnia, improving your overall mental health will in turn lead to a better night’s sleep.
Contact Bluewater Psychiatry
If you or a loved one are struggling with the Insomnia, contact Bluewater Psychiatry for professional help.