Narrative Experiences of Esketamine-Induced Dissociation in Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Qualitative Exploratory Study
Brain Sciences February 7, 2026 Miriam Olivola, Tiziano Prodi, Giada Versaci et al. 2 citations
During intranasal esketamine treatment for treatment-resistant depression, patients describe four distinct types of dissociative experiences: sensory alteration and perceptual flow (27.8%), time suspension and chronological drift (58.3%), body and space alteration (55.6%), and psychic distance from suffering (83.3%). Most patients frame these experiences as neutral or meaningful, often linked to temporary relief from rumination and depressive distress, though a minority report transient distress or loss of control. The findings suggest dissociation functions as a transitional subjective state whose clinical relevance depends on anticipation, framing, monitoring, and integration, supporting structured psychoeducation and in-session support in esketamine programs.