The Effect of Ketamine-Assisted Group Therapy on Treatment-Resistant Mental Health Conditions in Firefighters: A Prospective Observational Case Series.

Firefighters who completed a 12-week ketamine-assisted group therapy program showed significant and lasting reductions in symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder and anxiety. Questionnaire scores for PTSD and anxiety decreased substantially by the end of the program, and these improvements were still present six months later. Participants also reported that being in a group with other firefighters was beneficial. The findings suggest that this combined treatment approach may effectively address mental health challenges in this high-risk occupation.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Firefighters display elevated risk for diagnoses of mental health illnesses. Psychedelic-assisted therapies show promise in the treatment of clinically challenging conditions. This observational case series analyzed data from firefighters with mental health diagnoses who participated in a 12-week ketamine-assisted group therapy treatment plan. Questionnaire scores (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, The Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist -5, Brief Inventory of Psychosocial Functioning ) collected throughout the program were scored and statistically analyzed for changes. Qualitative data were analyzed through thematic analysis. Significant decreases with large effect sizes were detected in Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment-7 and The Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-5 scores after completion in the 12-week treatment plan, which persisted 6 months later. Participants noted it was beneficial being in a cohort with fellow firefighters. Statistically and clinically significant improvements to posttraumatic stress disorder and anxiety diagnoses were detected in the cohort of firefighters after the Roots to Thrive Ketamine-Assisted Group Therapy program, with results retained six months post treatment.