Many patients describe a gentle lift in mood or perspective after a ketamine therapy or Spravato session. Those first 24–72 hours are an important window: your brain is more flexible, your emotions may feel closer to the surface, and your body is adjusting. This guide offers a practical recovery plan for those early days — protecting the benefit while keeping expectations realistic. While this guide is designed to be informative, please consult your Lumin Health team of expert clinicians for any concerns and questions that may arise.
Rest and Re-Entry after Ketamine Dosing
Sleep, nutrition, hydration
The medicine leaves the body quickly, but your system may still feel tender. Prioritize good sleep, balanced meals, and steady hydration. Even something as simple as a short nap or a warm meal can help consolidate the therapeutic effects and help you steady yourself.
Screen light and stimulation
Many patients find bright screens or multitasking jarring right after a session. If possible, limit screen time and let your mind rest. Quiet activities — a walk, music, or gentle conversation — tend to feel more supportive.
When to resume driving/work
You will not be permitted to drive/bike home from your treatment or operating any heavy machinery until the day after your treatment. Some patients return to work in the afternoon after treatment or the next morning. Both are normal. Listen to your body and discuss with your Lumin Health care team if you’re unsure.
Capture Insights, Don’t Chase Them
Micro-journaling prompts
You don’t need to write an essay. A few words or phrases can help capture fleeting impressions: “felt lighter,” “saw myself differently,” “remembered Dad without anger.” These small notes become valuable touchstones for later reflection.
Sharing selectively with loved ones
Sharing everything right away can sometimes dilute an experience. Choose one or two people you trust, and explain that you’re still making sense of what came up during your ketamine therapy or Spravato session. This helps you feel connected while keeping the process your own. We can also speak with you about how to bring up treatment with friends, loved ones, and family members. For some helpful guidance, please see this discussion: How to Talk About Ketamine and Esketamine
Timing therapy for the window
The brain’s “neuroplasticity window” — the period when it’s more receptive to new connections — is often most open in the first few days after ketamine or Spravato treatment. If possible, Lumin Health recommends you schedule therapy or supportive conversations during this time. Practice laying our new behaviors that support recovery.
Watch for Signals and Side Effects
What’s expected vs. concerning
It’s normal to feel mild fatigue, light nausea, or a lingering dreamlike quality for a few hours. These usually fade quickly. If you experience lasting side effects, please speak with one of our clinicians.
When to call the clinic
Call anytime if you’re unsure. It’s better to check in about a side effect, mood swing, or sleep change than to second-guess alone. Your care team is there to help you interpret what’s unfolding.
Planning your next step
Your first session is part of a series, not a one-time event. Early reflections can help guide dosing, frequency, and whether you’d benefit more from Spravato or another route of administration. Bring your thoughts to your next appointment — they’re part of the treatment.
