For Loved Ones
Warning Signs to Watch For
You don't have to be a clinician to notice when something has shifted in a worrying direction.
Medically reviewed by: Pending medical review(draft)Last updated: June 4, 2026Evidence: Educational guidance — not a substitute for medical advice
Subtle signs
- Sleeping much more or much less than usual for 5+ days.
- Withdrawal from people, food, or activities they normally enjoy.
- Increased irritability, agitation, or emotional volatility.
- Persistent dissociative symptoms outside of sessions.
Urgent signs
- Talk of self-harm, hopelessness, or being a burden.
- Giving away possessions or making sudden farewells.
- Escalating substance use, especially alcohol or sedatives.
- Hallucinations, paranoia, or marked personality change.
Educational use only. The content on this page is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ketamine and related therapies carry risks and are appropriate only under qualified medical supervision. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional about your individual situation. Information may change as research evolves.