Question 1

Why don’t antidepressants work for me?

Accepted Answer

Many adolescents and young adults don’t respond to traditional antidepressants because developing brains affect emotional regulation and can make standard meds less effective. Social and environmental pressures, limited access to age-sensitive care, co-occurring conditions, trauma, and identity-related stressors also play a role—and inconsistent adherence can compound things. If you’ve felt stuck after ineffective treatments, ketamine therapy may be worth exploring as an alternative.

Question 2

Is ketamine treatment actually safe?

Accepted Answer

When delivered with clinical oversight, preparation, and integration, ketamine has one of the more favorable safety profiles in psychiatric care—especially at therapeutic doses in a structured setting. Safety comes from careful screening, dosing, monitoring, and post-session support. At Lumin Health, we emphasize that safety is built on trust and process. We encourage you to contact our team with specific concerns so we can consider your individual situation.

Question 3

Can you get addicted to medical ketamine treatments?

Accepted Answer

Recreational ketamine misuse typically involves high doses without safeguards. In contrast, clinical treatment uses measured doses at limited frequency with strict monitoring. Research has not documented treatment-related ketamine abuse in patients receiving supervised care for depression. Screening, in-clinic administration, and follow-up reduce risk, making ketamine a safe, effective option for many when properly overseen.

Question 4

What is the official age limit for Spravato or ketamine therapy?

Accepted Answer

Spravato (esketamine) is FDA-approved for adults 18+. Ketamine itself has no formal psychiatric approval at any age. Clinicians may consider off-label treatment for some patients as young as 16 when depression is severe, treatment-resistant, or associated with suicide risk. Decisions factor in developmental maturity, support systems, history, readiness for ketamine’s effects, and informed consent. At Lumin Health, younger patients are considered only after a careful evaluation and typically begin with a short, closely monitored course.

Question 5

Do people really feel better after ketamine therapy?

Accepted Answer

Many patients experience rapid relief—sometimes within hours or days—when ketamine is used for depression that hasn’t responded to other treatments. People often report less emotional heaviness, renewed perspective, and better engagement in therapy and daily life. Results vary and ongoing support is important to maintain gains, but evidence and patient experiences show ketamine can offer meaningful relief.

Question 6

Are visits to a ketamine clinic covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Coverage depends on the treatment type. Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and is often covered, including medication, clinic administration, and monitoring (copays/deductibles may apply). Other ketamine forms (IV, IM, oral) are used off-label for depression and are usually not covered, so costs are typically out-of-pocket. The difference is regulatory: Spravato is approved for psychiatric use, while ketamine infusions are not. Lumin Health helps patients weigh clinical needs, dosing preferences, and financial considerations to choose the best path.

HEALING STARTS HERE

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