In life, there are things that are chronic and things that are acute. A cold or the flu, for example, are acute problems, those that can get resolved or fixed and end. People get sick, and after the illness runs its course, they are “good as new”.

But some problems are chronic. This means they can last a lifetime, and seem to come and go.  Major depression can be one of those chronic problems. If you’ve been successful in getting rid of your symptoms, congratulations!  But remember, they can come back.  So, what sort of things or triggers should you look for, and what can you do about them?

One of the biggest challenges is following through on your treatment even when you feel great. This is not just about chronic illness or depression. How many people stop taking antibiotics when they feel better, and not take the entire course? Our tendency is to stop treating when we feel we no longer need it. This actually creates a set-up for relapse. One of the ways to prevent a relapse is continuing treatment even when you feel better. We have seen it time and again where patients don’t continue their ketamine maintenance treatments because they feel great only to relapse and need to be re-stabilized. It is best to stay on track with your treatments and see your therapist on a regular basis to prevent a relapse.

A second challenge is negative thinking habits. Often when we’re under stress, and who isn’t in life, we revert to old habits. These include thinking habits. If you have struggled with depression, you have probably engaged in negative thinking in the past. If you notice you are negative in your thoughts (I’m an idiot. Nothing ever goes right for me. If I’m late, I will lose my job), that can trigger a depression relapse.

Thirdly, it is important we know ourselves. What things “personally” set you off? Where are the individual emotional buttons? For some people it might be family visit, or a particular day or date we associate with a strong emotional memory. Is there an environmental situation that we will have a negative emotional reaction and is it avoidable?

Sometimes, relapse, or some “backsliding” is unavoidable. But if you feel you are losing ground, call the professionals at Ketamine Wellness Center. Our comprehensive program offers tools including coping strategies and infusion therapy designed to help you stay at your best! Call us today and end that downward spiral. There is help. There is hope.

Dr. Ellen Diamond is the Clinical Psychologist for Ketamine Wellness Centers.