What Does it Mean to Disassociate?

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic, meaning it can create a sense of disconnection from one’s body and reality. This dissociative state can lead to altered perceptions of space and time, changes in thought patterns, and a different awareness of one’s self and environment. Some people describe it as a dream-like state or as if they are observing themselves from a distance.

During a ketamine therapy session, these dissociative effects are leveraged to help individuals gain new insights into their behaviors and thought patterns. Patients often report experiences of introspection and personal insight, reviewing their life or current issues from a new perspective. It’s as though they have stepped outside of their usual mindset and are looking at their problems from a distance, allowing them to understand them in ways they couldn’t before.

While under the influence of ketamine, individuals may also experience what are sometimes referred to as “psychedelic” experiences. These can include visual or auditory hallucinations, profound feelings of connection to the world around them, and experiences of transcendence or spirituality. Some people have compared it to a near-death experience, giving them a renewed appreciation for life. These experiences can be deeply meaningful and have lasting impacts on a person’s outlook and attitudes.

From a therapeutic perspective, these experiences can be transformative. The altered state of consciousness can provide a mental “reset,” breaking the cycle of negative thought patterns associated with conditions like depression and anxiety. The profound insights and shifts in perspective can lead to lasting changes in behavior, emotional response, and overall mental health.