Medically, ketamine is one of the safest anesthetic agents available. It doesn’t suppress breathing or heart rate like many other sedatives, and it’s even used in emergency medicine for children and trauma patients. At the low doses used for mental health, side effects are typically mild and short-lived—such as dizziness, nausea, or a dreamy feeling.

Psychologically, ketamine can create powerful shifts in perception, memory, and emotion. That’s what makes it so useful—but also why it needs to be handled with care. People with untreated mania, psychosis, or recent trauma may need additional support or a different approach.

A good provider will screen you for any red flags and guide you through the emotional side of the experience. You’ll be supported not just during the session, but also as you integrate whatever arises.

When used with care, ketamine is not only safe—it can be a profoundly healing tool. But like any powerful treatment, the safety comes from the context, not just the chemical.