Finding Genius Podcast
Ketamine & Mental Health: Dr. Karen DeCocker On Cutting-Edge Treatments
Mar 22, 2025
Dr. Karen DeCocker is the Director of Advanced Practice Providers at Stella Mental Health, specializing in innovative ketamine treatments. She discusses the transformative potential of ketamine for severe depression and PTSD, highlighting its history and rapid efficacy. Dr. DeCocker emphasizes the critical link between mental and physical health, advocating for personalized treatment approaches. She also addresses the evolving perception of mental health, focusing on brain health as a foundation for effective care and the importance of treating underlying causes.
42:50
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Quick takeaways
- Ketamine's rapid relief for depression and suicidality highlights its importance as an immediate treatment option in mental health emergencies.
- The need to treat brain health with the same urgency as physical health emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health care.
Deep dives
The Growing Role of Ketamine in Mental Health Treatment
Ketamine has been used for decades as an anesthetic, but its application in treating mental health conditions like treatment-resistant depression has gained traction since the 1990s. Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to become effective, ketamine can provide immediate relief, showing significant effects within hours of administration. This quick response allows for the potential treatment of severe episodes, including suicidality, making ketamine a crucial tool in emergency mental health care. The versatility of ketamine has encouraged a reevaluation of treatment approaches, placing it as a second-line option rather than a last resort.
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