The Struggles of Depression in Israel
Living in Israel is a vibrant and dynamic experience, but it also comes with unique challenges that can weigh heavily on mental health. The fast-paced lifestyle, ongoing security concerns, economic pressures, and societal expectations contribute to a growing prevalence of depression. For those battling treatment-resistant depression (TRD), these challenges can feel even more overwhelming, leading to a sense of hopelessness and isolation.
A 2024 study published in eClinicalMedicine highlights the significant mental health impact of recent traumatic events on the Israeli population. Researchers surveyed 710 Israeli adults approximately six weeks before and six weeks after the October 7th massacre and found that the prevalence of PTSD had doubled, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) increased by 18%, and depression rose by 13.5%. Alarmingly, 38% of respondents reported having suicidal thoughts. These findings underscore the urgent need for nationwide mental health interventions, according to Yossi Levi-Belz, a professor of psychology and co-author of the study. The research demonstrates how widespread trauma exacerbates existing mental health conditions and highlights the critical importance of accessible and effective treatments for those struggling with TRD.
Traditional treatments such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are commonly prescribed, yet they do not work for everyone. Many individuals with TRD find themselves cycling through multiple medications and therapies without relief. This has led to the rise of ketamine-assisted therapy (KAT) as a groundbreaking alternative for those who have exhausted conventional options.
Dr. Isaac Nagel, a leading psychiatrist at Keter Health, underscores the importance of this breakthrough treatment: “Ketamine therapy offers hope for individuals who have struggled with depression and found little success with traditional treatments. By utilizing ketamine in a controlled and supportive environment, we are witnessing remarkable transformations in patients who previously felt there were no options left.”
According to a report by The Jewish Chronicle, ketamine therapy has shown promise in improving the mental health of traumatized Israeli soldiers (The Jewish Chronicle). Similarly, Haaretz has reported on ketamine treatment offering hope to survivors of the Nova music festival attack and Israeli soldiers dealing with PTSD (Haaretz). These findings further reinforce the growing acceptance of ketamine therapy as a breakthrough intervention for trauma and anxiety disorders.
What is Ketamine Therapy and How Does It Work?
Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic, has gained recognition for its rapid-acting antidepressant properties. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which may take weeks to become effective, ketamine often provides relief within hours or days. It works by targeting the brain’s glutamate system, promoting neuroplasticity, and helping to form new, healthier neural connections.
In Israel, ketamine therapy is administered in controlled clinical settings under the supervision of licensed professionals. At Keter Health in Jerusalem, ketamine is delivered via intramuscular (IM) injection, ensuring precise and effective dosing. Patients receive comprehensive treatment that combines ketamine injections with psychotherapy to maximize long-term healing and integration.
Legal Status of Ketamine Therapy in Israel
In Israel, ketamine is classified as a controlled substance. Its legal use is primarily for anesthesia in medical and veterinary contexts. However, ketamine has also been utilized for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety within medical institutions. Clinics offering ketamine therapy for psychiatric conditions must obtain individual approval from the Israeli Ministry of Health for each patient. This regulatory oversight ensures that ketamine is used safely and appropriately within therapeutic settings (Jerusalem Post).
The Science Behind Ketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Recent research highlights ketamine’s effectiveness for individuals who have not responded to conventional treatments:
- Rapid Relief: A 2022 systematic review found that ketamine provided significant improvements in depressive symptoms within hours, with effects lasting for several days (National Library of Medicine).
- Neuroplasticity and Long-Term Benefits: A 2023 study in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology demonstrated that ketamine enhances neuroplasticity, helping the brain rewire itself for long-term improvement in depressive symptoms (British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology).
- Hope for Severe Cases: A Mayo Clinic study is investigating how ketamine can provide rapid relief for individuals with severe, treatment-resistant depression, including those with suicidal ideation (Mayo Clinic).
The Benefits of Ketamine Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Fast-Acting Relief – Unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks to work, ketamine can provide symptom relief within hours or days.
High Bioavailability – IM injections ensure that approximately 93% of the administered ketamine is absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to consistent and effective results.
Rebuilding Neural Pathways – By stimulating neuroplasticity, ketamine helps the brain form healthier thought patterns, allowing for long-term improvements.
Alternative for Medication-Resistant Cases – For those who have tried multiple antidepressants without success, ketamine provides a new avenue for relief.
Improving Emotional Resilience – Many patients report not just a reduction in depressive symptoms but also a newfound ability to cope with life’s challenges more effectively.
What to Expect from Keter Health for Ketamine Assisted Therapy in Israel
At Keter Health, the ketamine therapy process is carefully structured to ensure patient safety and the best possible outcomes:
- Initial Consultation – Patients undergo a thorough assessment to determine if ketamine therapy is the right approach for their depression.
- Personalized Treatment Plan – A customized plan is developed, incorporating multiple ketamine sessions alongside psychotherapy for long-term success.
- Ketamine Injection Sessions – The treatment is administered via intramuscular injection (IM) in a controlled, supportive environment.
- Integration Therapy – Post-treatment discussions and therapy sessions help patients understand their experiences and apply insights to daily life.
- Follow-Up Care – Continued support ensures that patients maintain progress and receive additional treatment as needed.
Taking the Next Step
If you or a loved one has been struggling with treatment-resistant depression, ketamine therapy may offer the breakthrough you’ve been searching for. Living with depression does not have to be a lifelong battle. Contact Keter Health in Jerusalem today to explore how ketamine therapy can help restore hope and healing.