Nathan’s Story

This is Nathan’s story.

Burdened by the unrelenting weight of anxiety and depression, I tried everything: SNRIs, TCAs, psychotherapy, writing, mindfulness meditation, group therapy, religious trauma recovery, seeking human connections, walking, and psychedelics like mushrooms, acid, and DMT. But it was in whispers and shared experiences that I discovered a potential lifeline—ketamine treatment. I signed up online, received the Ketamine 200 mg oral dissolving tablets and transformed my room into a sanctuary, mindful of the importance of “set and setting.”

Ten minutes after placing the tablet in my mouth, the medicine began to work. I felt transported to a room as an observer from above. Shapes adorned the walls; my eyes seemed open while closed, reminiscent of being inside an aircraft, gazing down at serene landscapes and rows of houses.

My thoughts slowed but didn’t stop—a gentle, soothing journey accompanied by a feeling of intense tranquility. The tightness that had plagued my neck and upper body for so long began to relent. After an hour, the initial wave of sensations subsided, but its impact lingered.

Colors appeared brighter, and I felt more present, more capable of confronting life’s challenges. As I see it, I used to take Benzos to escape uncomfortable and frightening feelings, to dull the pain, to forget. Now, I take ketamine to lean in, to feel, to have the courage to confront and not escape these scary feelings.

After the treatment, I took steps to integrate the experience and learn from it by discussing the session with my physician and therapist. Ketamine relieves my anxiety and depression like no other medication ever did.