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KAP (Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy) is an incredible therapeutic tool that benefits many people, but it does come with risks—possibly more than other treatments. If you decide to investigate KAP, make sure to work with a therapist who is a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapist, as KAP does not fall within the general scope of knowledge most therapists possess. Gay men have become increasingly curious about ketamine therapy, but is there any danger in using this treatment within our community? Below, I’ll break down the potential risks and highlight the true benefits.
What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy?
Ketamine is an anesthetic that has recently been found to have remarkable antidepressant effects. We are now seeing that ketamine is also very effective for other conditions, such as PTSD, anxiety, and even substance use disorders. There are four methods for administering ketamine: intravenously, intramuscularly, orally, and intranasally. You can read more about these methods in another blog I wrote here. The effects of the medicine vary dramatically depending on the method, so you’ll want to work closely with your therapist and doctor to choose the right route of administration for you.
The Ketamine High: Awe and Wonder
Many consider ketamine a journey within—a return to the self. You’re not fixing what’s broken; you’re returning to your innate health. The best news of all is that it’s not just a temporary “high.” The effects last. Ketamine induces neuroplasticity, allowing structural changes in the brain to take place. Many people report that their perceptions and thinking patterns genuinely change following treatment. Negative, rigid thinking patterns soften, and they begin to feel more whole.
Gay Men and Ketamine Therapy
Besides being an anesthetic, ketamine is also known as a party drug, and its popularity has surged in recent years. This leads to the primary concern regarding ketamine therapy: misuse. Like any drug that can produce a high, ketamine can be misused and abused. Matthew Perry famously died from a ketamine overdose last year, highlighting the risks involved. Unfortunately, recreationa
l ketamine use has been on the rise—particularly among gay men. Many are drawn to ketamine because it provides a sense of transcendence, openness, or spiritual awakening. Fortunately, these experiences can be replicated when ketamine is used medicinally. I believe ketamine’s popularity reflects an unmet need among many gay men.
What if I’ve Abused Ketamine Before?
So, can gay men utilize this therapy? Yes, but with caution. If you have used ketamine recreationally before, that may be acceptable; however, if you’ve experienced any form of dependence or addiction, the risks of KAP likely outweigh the potential benefits. Interestingly, ketamine is actually used to treat substance use disorders. For example, studies have shown that ketamine is 66% effective at curbing alcohol addiction, compared to only 22% with a placebo in randomized control studies.
Take It Slow
Unlike traditional antidepressants, which take several weeks to build up in your system, ketamine’s acute effects wear off after a few hours. However, the cumulative antidepressant effects can begin to take hold in as little as one week, allowing users to experiment gradually. After each ketamine session, monitor for any cravings. If you feel that ketamine triggers a desire to use more recreationally, I recommend stopping the treatment. Interestingly, many find that ketamine can actually decrease their overall cravings. You should avoid any mind-altering substances on the days you receive KAP, aside from pre-approved medications, which are rarely contraindicated.
Be Wary of Online Prescribers
I am particularly wary of online ketamine prescribers. Many companies, such as Mind Bloom, will ship you multiple doses of ketamine directly to your door for self-administration, which can increase the risk of abuse. In contrast, ketamine administered through IV is provided by a doctor in a medical facility, preventing patients from increasing or adjusting the dose on their own. If you have any concerns about your ability to self-administer safely, I recommend sticking to ketamine methods provided only by a doctor.
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