A clients journey through Ketamine Addiction

A 31 year old client sought treatment at Veda’s Mumbai Centre in 2024 for ketamine addiction, accompanied by depression and anxiety. Through a holistic treatment plan involving therapy, medication, and wellness practices, the client successfully regained emotional stability and control over their life.

Background

Patient Profile: A young adult professional struggling with work-related stress, interpersonal conflicts, and childhood trauma.

Initial Concerns: The client experienced frequent anxiety attacks, depressive moods, and escalating family conflicts, which negatively impacted their work performance and personal relationships.

Treatment Goals

Primary Objective: Overcome ketamine dependence while managing anxiety and depression. Develop healthier coping mechanisms and enhance overall well-being.

Approach & Methodology

Holistic Interventions:

Medical Management: A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation led to a prescription for anxiety medication and mood stabilizers.

Psychotherapy: Evidence-based therapeutic approaches included:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focused on recognizing thought patterns that contributed to addiction and developing healthier coping strategies.
• Gestalt Therapy: Addressed unresolved childhood trauma, helping the client process prolonged grief and emotional pain constructively.

Wellness Practices: Integrated into daily routines to support mental and physical well-being:

• Mindfulness Practices: Mantra meditation, focused meditation, and mindful walking.
• Relaxation Techniques: Yoga Nidra and Ho’oponopono meditation to enhance emotional regulation.

Challenges Faced During Treatment

Patient-Specific Obstacles:

• Intense withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
• Emotional distress linked to unresolved childhood trauma.
• Initial resistance to therapy and lifestyle changes.

Clinical or Logistical Hurdles:

• Co-occurring disorders required tailored interventions.
• Addressing deep-seated guilt and self-doubt through therapy.

Team’s Response:

• Personalized CBT and Gestalt Therapy sessions helped the client reframe negative thoughts.
• Gradual introduction of mindfulness practices to build emotional resilience.
• Continuous therapeutic support reinforced small victories and motivation.

Results & Success Indicators

Quantitative Outcomes:

• Reduction in anxiety and depressive symptoms.
• Improved emotional regulation and decreased substance cravings.

Qualitative Outcomes:

• Enhanced self-esteem and confidence
• Strengthened ability to process grief and past trauma.
• Commitment to continued therapy and wellness practices post-treatment.

Before & After Snapshot:

• Before: Persistent anxiety, substance dependence, negative thought patterns, and emotional distress.
• After: Improved emotional well-being, positive outlook, and structured coping mechanisms.

Key Takeaways & Lessons Learned

Client Perspective: The client reported feeling empowered by therapy and mindfulness practices, particularly highlighting the effectiveness of Gestalt Therapy in addressing deep-seated emotional pain.

Therapeutic Insights:

• Combining CBT with Gestalt Therapy provided a well-rounded approach to healing addiction and trauma.
• Wellness techniques like meditation and Yoga Nidra significantly contributed to emotional stability.

Advice for Others:

• Seeking professional help for addiction and co-occurring disorders is crucial.
• Regular engagement in wellness practices fosters long-term recovery and mental clarity.

Confidentiality & Disclaimer

Anonymity Assurance: Names, images, and identifying details have been changed or omitted to protect privacy.

Medical Disclaimer: This case study is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always seek guidance from a licensed medical professional regarding treatment options.