A systematic review and meta-analysis of ten studies (five randomized controlled trials, two crossover trials, and three non-randomized trials) examined ketamine's effectiveness for post-traumatic stress disorder. Ketamine led to significant improvements in PTSD symptoms measured by PCL-5 scores at the end of treatment courses lasting one to four weeks, with a standardized effect size of 0.25. However, no significant effect was found 24 hours after the first infusion. High heterogeneity across analyses limits confidence in the findings. The results suggest ketamine may be a promising treatment option, but more trials are needed to establish reliable evidence.
Chronic pain patients with higher levels of mindfulness attitudes report less distress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, and greater physical and general well-being, regardless of whether their pain is oncologic or non-oncologic. In a study of 50 patients, those scoring above a mindfulness threshold (26 of 50) had significantly lower scores on measures of pain-related disability, perceived stress, anxiety, and depression, and higher scores on psychological well-being. Mindfulness level was the strongest positive predictor of well-being, while anxiety and pain intensity were negative predictors.