Ketamine for Depression, Anxiety, & PTSD - Changing the Brain Through Neuroplasticity

Nick Sterling, MD, PhD

In this episode, we explore how ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic with a long history in medical use, is now being investigated for its rapid and sustained effects on depression, anxiety, and PTSD. We discuss its role in promoting neuroplasticity—rewiring the brain's structure to counteract stress-induced atrophy—and review the evidence from clinical trials, including a landmark 2023 meta-analysis. While ketamine shows promise in alleviating depressive symptoms and supporting neural growth, we also address its risks and the importance of professional oversight. Learn how this cutting-edge research is reshaping mental health treatment and what it means for the future of therapy. Spotify Channel: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sterlingmdphd/#mentalhealth Social & Website: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sterlingmdphd X - https://x.com/sterlingmdphd Facebook - / sterlingmdphd Newsletter - http://eepurl.com/hQpdqT Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3y438C9 References & Show Notes: http://www.nicksterling.com/ This content is not medical advice, is for general information purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or any other healthcare professional services. No doctor-patient relationship is formed. This content is not a substitute for medical evaluation or treatment and does not take precedence over information provided to you by your healthcare provider or official public health sources. Please visit nicksterling.com/terms for full Terms of Use. Timestamps 00:00:00 - Depression Treatments and Challenges 00:00:20 - Brain Rewiring and Neuroplasticity 00:00:36 - Ketamine: A Rapid Neuroplasticity Tool 00:00:52 - Ketamine's Origins as an Anesthetic 00:01:28 - How Ketamine Works in the Brain 00:01:49 - Evidence of Ketamine's Effectiveness for Depression 00:03:04 - Human Trials and Clinical Findings 00:04:14 - Short-Term and Medium-Term Efficacy 00:04:31 - Exploring Ketamine for PTSD and Anxiety 00:05:54 - Brain Changes in Depression 00:08:50 - How Ketamine Reverses Brain Damage 00:10:02 - Ketamine's Neuroplasticity Mechanisms 00:12:11 - Risks and Side Effects of Ketamine Treatment 00:14:15 - Long-Term Concerns and Cognitive Impacts 00:15:05 - A Holistic Approach to Depression Management 00:15:22 - Thanks and Channel Support