The Neural Basis of Depression
For decades, the "Chemical Imbalance" theory (low serotonin) dominated psychiatry. We now know that depression is primarily a disorder of connectivity, not just chemistry.
In depressed patients, the Default Mode Network (DMN)—the brain structure responsible for "self" and "worry"—becomes overactive and hyper-connected to the limbic system. This prevents the Executive Control Network (ECN) from coming online, making it physically impossible for the patient to "snap out of it."
Breaking the Cycle
Standard SSRIs (Prozac, Zoloft) take weeks to work and blunt emotional range. Our protocol disrupts the DMN immediately:
1. Network Disruption: Ketamine infusion creates a temporary "dissociative" state that shuts down the DMN for 45 minutes, offering immediate relief from suicidal ideation.
2. Synaptic Regrowth: The resulting Glutamate surge forces the growth of new dendritic spines in the Prefrontal Cortex, strengthening the Executive Network so it can regain control over the DMN long-term.