Preparing your home and family for your Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) experience is essential to ensure a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment. KAP can be a deeply personal and transformative journey, and adequate preparation can contribute to a positive outcome. Here are 10 ways to make your KAP experience smoother for you and your loved ones: 1. Inform Your Family:
Inform those close to you of your journey and process. Share what you’re doing and why. Let them know where you’ll be and keep them in the loop. If you have a hard time deciphering or trusting your support system, please let your therapist know.
2. Safety Measures:
Identify where you will go after the experience. It is important to set aside time and space to integrate your ketamine healing journey. This space needs to be as supportive, peaceful, therapeutic, and nourishing as possible. A stress-free environment is key.
3. Music or Soundscapes:
Many people find that calming music or nature soundscapes enhance the KAP experience. Prepare a playlist or choose soothing sounds to play in the background.
4. Comfort Items:
Gather comfort items such as blankets, pillows, and tissues. You may want to have a journal nearby for reflection after the session when you return home.
5. Hydration and Snacks:
Prepare some light snacks and water. Ketamine can sometimes cause dry mouth, and it's important to stay hydrated.
6. Set Intentions:
Take some time before the session to set your intentions and goals for the experience. What do you hope to achieve or understand? Reflecting on this can enhance the therapeutic aspect of KAP.
7. Improve your social network:
Enhance your real social network and relationships. Move toward the relationships that help you become a better person, and away from the toxic relationships. Develop new standards for relating and bonding.
8. Post-Session Support:
Have a plan in place for post-session care. Your therapist or a trusted friend/family member can be available for debriefing and support after the session.
9. Incorporate New Stimulus:
Spruce up your home with positive stimuli and healthy activity
options. Choose activities that deepen, not distract, your integration. Incorporate stimulating, inspiring, creative, and engaging things to inspire creativity and spark ingenuity. Many people find benefits in creative writing, arts, and crafts.
10. Follow Therapist's Recommendations:
Always follow your therapist's recommendations for preparation and aftercare. They will provide guidance specific to your needs and the type of KAP you'll be undergoing.