“Don’t feel like you have to push through”

Image of Peter, PPI member and participant of the SIGNATURE study

Ketamine, commonly used as an anaesthetic, has been shown to be effective as a rapid-acting anti-depressant in people who have previously not responded to two or more treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD).

The SIGNATURE study, led by King’s College London, uses imaging techniques to explore how the brain responds when people with MDD have this treatment and how this relates to any changes in their symptoms.

Peter – patient and public involvement member at the King’s Clinical Research Facility and a participant of the SIGNATURE study - had previously accessed talking therapies and medication for his depression over a ten-year period, but wanted to try alternative options.

“My symptoms have really varied over the years - really low mood, lacking self-esteem and confidence, suicidal thoughts and physical symptoms including chest and shooting pains. I did not feel connected with friends and family, and it also impacted my relationships at work.

“In the months preceding taking part in the study, I was having a really tough time with my mental health and so I wanted to explore ways I could reframe my diagnosis.”

Participants visited the King’s Clinical Research Facility for treatment which included MRI scans and EEG scans which measure the electrical activity of the brain. Peter had three MRI scans as part of the study, blood tests, and completed tasks and questionnaires which assess memory, concentration and mood.

“I think I was most probably most apprehensive about entering a clinical environment and how you might be treated in that space, but it really helped that the team created a really safe and welcoming environment. This made me feel valued as an individual rather than a patient number.”

Having now completed his treatment as part of the SIGNATURE study, Peter reflects on the impact it has had:

“I think the immediate effect of the ketamine was a focus away from my negative thoughts and feelings. I think it’ll be particularly beneficial for people with major depressive disorder who don’t feel they’re able to interact with other people or take care of themselves because of debilitative symptoms.”

Peter’s workplace at the time were not aware of his involvement in this study, however he urges employers to learn from their employees about what may help their mental health and wellbeing, particularly beyond packaged employee support programmes.

“I think it’s also a learning curve for the individual to understand what might help and support them - having a range of options and learning from one another is a great place to start.

“I’d really encourage people to talk to someone if they think their mental health has dipped - don’t feel like you have to push through, and you can contact anonymous helplines if you just need a listening ear.”


Tags: King's Clinical Research Facility - NIHR Wellcome King's Clinical Research Facility -

By NIHR Wellcome King's Clinical Research Facility at 10 Oct 2024, 14:55 PM


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