Ketamine treatment is now being used to help people with mental health problems. It works fast for some people when nothing else has helped. There are two ways to get this kind of care: at home or at a retreat. Both are useful, but they are very different.
This article breaks down what each one offers. You’ll know what to expect, how they feel, and which one might fit you better.
This type of care starts with a video call. A licensed doctor or nurse checks your health. If you’re approved, they send you the medicine in the mail.
You get tablets that go under your tongue. A guide helps you plan the session. You’ll need a quiet room, headphones, and an eye mask.
Some programs ask you to have a friend in the home, just to be safe. You do the session in your bed or chair. You close your eyes and rest while the medicine works. Companies like Isha.health are offering at-home ketamine therapy.
A retreat is a place where you stay overnight. You go there for a few days. The staff takes care of everything. They give you food, a quiet room, and someone to help during the sessions.
You get the same type of medicine, but the setting is very different. Staff check your vital signs. They may also offer body work, group talks, or light movement.
Retreats give full support. That means less planning on your part. You just show up, take part, and rest.
If you don’t like travel or groups, this is a good pick. You get to stay in your space. You control the setup. It’s quiet, private, and easy to plan.
Some people feel safer in their home. They like being alone after the session. They don’t want to talk or share unless needed.
It also costs less. Most programs charge per session. Some offer bundles. You only pay for what you need.
If you want full support, a retreat may be better. You’ll have help right there if you need it. You don’t have to plan anything. You don’t have to clean up.
It’s a break from daily life. You’re away from your phone, your job, and your chores. For some people, that helps them focus.
You may also meet others going through the same thing. Some find comfort in talking about their experience after a session.
No matter where you are, the session starts the same. You take the tablet. You hold it under your tongue and don’t swallow. After several minutes, you spit out the saliva.
Then, you lie down. You wear the mask and headphones. You listen to calm music. Your body might feel heavy or light. Your mind may drift. This is all part of how the medicine works.
At home, you might write in a journal after. At a retreat, you may talk to a therapist or rest in a group room. Both paths aim to help you process the effects.
Both options are made to be safe. You need to pass a health check before starting. At home, you may need to use a blood pressure cuff. At retreats, the staff does this for you.
If something feels off at home, you can call your team. Most programs give you a phone number to use during the session. At retreats, a nurse or coach is nearby all the time.
Some people feel better knowing help is close. Others are okay with remote care. Think about which makes you feel more relaxed.
Money and time matter too. At-home programs are cheaper. They also take less time. You can fit them into your week.
Retreats cost more and take full days. But you get more in-person care. That can make a difference if you’re going through a rough patch.
Aftercare is key. Your brain may feel open or tired. Some people feel clear right away. Others need time.
Most programs include follow-up support. At home, you may have a video call a few days later. At a retreat, you may meet with a therapist before you leave.
Ongoing support helps you stay on track. It’s not just about one session. It’s about how the care helps you grow over time.
There’s no single best answer. Some people try both.
Start with this:
Answer those questions honestly. That will lead you to the right choice.
Yes. Both follow safety rules. You’ll be checked before starting.
The results are similar. What changes is the setting and support.
Yes. Some start at a retreat and later switch to home care.
A doctor will review your health and decide if it’s safe.
Most people remember parts of the session. Some write notes after.
