An Overview of Manic and Depressive Episodes
Approximately 5.7 million adults in the US are affected by bipolar disorder each year, according to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance.
Bipolar disorder is a condition that comes with intense mood swings, involving manic highs and depressive lows. It’s thought to be caused by a combination of genetics, environment, and altered brain chemistry. It’s not a condition that will go away if left untreated and can lead to psychosis if ignored.
At Ketamine Wellness Institute, we understand how debilitating this condition can be. That’s why we pride ourselves on offering an innovative treatment option for people with treatment-resistant bipolar disorder. Reclaim your life with IV ketamine therapy.
During the manic phase of bipolar disorder, patients report unusual and energetic symptoms. For example, some people will feel abnormally jumpy or agitated. Others report having a heightened sense of well-being and self-esteem, as well as an increase in talkativeness. This can also lead to sped-up thought processes, being easily distracted, and generally making poor decisions.
Those with bipolar disorder are also known to enter major depressive episodes, significantly affecting their everyday lives. Symptoms of depressive episodes go far beyond just a general depressed mood. Many patients report losing interest in regular activities, changes in sleep patterns, changes in appetite or diet, fatigue, and trouble concentrating. In some cases, this can lead to suicidal ideation.
Often misunderstood as a condition itself, psychosis is a symptom of several conditions, including bipolar disorder. Symptoms of bipolar psychosis, most common during manic episodes, include some of the following: decreased performance in your personal or professional lives, worsened hygiene, difficulty communicating, social isolation, anxiety, and suspicion of others.
The Science Behind IV Ketamine
Ketamine has been used worldwide for decades both as a safe anesthetic and rapid pain reliever. Research in the last two decades indicates that ketamine, administered safely via a series of infusions, may relieve the symptoms of depression or other mental health conditions within hours. This is compared to the weeks or months oral antidepressants may take before relief is felt.
Researchers are still looking to determine the exact method of action with IV ketamine infusions. One theory proposes that it stimulates the regrowth of synapses – effectively “rewiring” the brain.
Another promising avenue of research into its effects indicates that it acts on glutamate, an important neurotransmitter that affects how synapses change and learn. This is called neuroplasticity: the ability of the brain to change and learn. This could explain ketamine’s strong effect on mood and pain disorders.
Take the First Step
Bipolar disorder can make everyday life a challenge.
At Ketamine Wellness Institute, we are dedicated to helping you find a treatment that brings you relief from the symptoms.
With innovative treatments like ketamine therapy – what many call a “game-changer” for mental health treatment – we want to set you on the path to wellness.
Once used solely as an anesthetic, ketamine’s effect on the NMDA receptor in the brain allows it to bring rapid relief to mental health symptoms.
Through a series of infusions, as much as 70% of patients report relief from their symptoms.
Our mission at Ketwell Alaska is to provide high-quality care in a comfortable, private, and, most importantly, safe environment.
We take pride in providing the most advanced and scientifically rigorous ketamine treatment protocols available for the disorders we treat.
If you feel ketamine infusion therapy could be right for you, contact us today, or fill out our consultation form to speak to one of our ketamine professionals today.
