Chronic depression affects millions of people and casts a long shadow over every part of life. Traditional treatments help some, but for others the dark cloud persists. Ketamine-assisted therapy has emerged as an important option, offering renewed hope for people living with chronic depression. At Onward Health & Wellness in Salem, it's one of our core treatments, alongside a range of other mental health and wellness services.
1. Understanding chronic depression
Chronic depression, also called persistent depressive disorder, takes a heavy toll on emotional and physical well-being. It can show up as constant sadness or a loss of interest in daily life, making it hard to keep up relationships and work. Despite traditional treatment, many people still feel stuck, which is why many look for alternatives such as ketamine therapy, especially after conventional treatments haven't brought relief.
2. A different approach to treating depression
Ketamine, first known as an anesthetic, has become a valuable tool in treating depression. It can bring rapid relief from depressive symptoms, especially for people who haven't responded to traditional antidepressants. Standard medications can take weeks to work, while many people notice improvement from ketamine within hours or days.
3. How ketamine works
Ketamine blocks NMDA receptors in the brain, which increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF supports the growth and maintenance of brain cells, and its increase is thought to play a key role in ketamine's antidepressant effect. Traditional antidepressants mainly target serotonin, while ketamine is believed to help restore brain connections affected by chronic stress and depression. That offers both short-term relief and the potential for longer-lasting improvement.
4. The benefits of ketamine therapy
The most notable benefit is how quickly symptoms can ease, which can be life-changing for someone who has lived with depression for years. Research also shows ketamine can reduce suicidal thoughts, and it has strong evidence for treatment-resistant depression, offering hope when other options have failed.
Combined with counseling, lifestyle changes and support from loved ones, ketamine therapy becomes part of a complete, personalized plan for long-term recovery.
5. Real-life impact
We see the impact at Onward every day, from patients who feel a lift in mood to those who regain the energy to pursue new opportunities and rebuild their lives. These stories reflect both what the therapy can do and our commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.
6. Moving toward healing
The road through chronic depression is personal and often hard, but ketamine-assisted therapy offers a renewed sense of hope. For people who have struggled with traditional treatments, it provides another path toward mental wellness.
If you or someone you love is living with chronic depression, we invite you to learn more about ketamine therapy. Book a consultation online, call (971) 208-9249 or email contact@onwardclinic.com.
Talk with our team
Book a $75 consultation in Salem to explore ketamine therapy, TMS or counseling. No referral needed.