Wednesday, October 22, 2008

The First of Many Updates.

Eventually as I get used to the daily routine I'll post longer entries. I've been on the ward now upstairs for a few hours and am beginning to adjust to the routine, the daily activities, meal time, medication time, and all of the particulars that they entail. This morning I woke up early, then moved all my stuff out of the Family Lodge. I was shuttled to Building 10 via a small bus, underwent registration, was formally admitted, underwent several tests (an EKG, blood work, in depth interview with a psychiatrist, a chest x-ray), ate lunch, then settled down to read and play guitar for a few hours.

To reiterate what I told someone earlier today, I will be on two medications simultaneously. One is ketamine, known to most as cat tranquilizers and to a league of recreational drug users as Special K. I will receive, by injection, a much smaller dose than is abused and have around thirty minutes or so of feeling a tad strange until the worst effects wear off. Though it might seem strange, ketamine has shown some real promise for treating depression. The second drug is brand new, designed to specifically treat anxiety. I'll be one of the first to try it out. I am in a better mood, for sure. I got stuck in a rut for six months after my last hospitalization and wasn't really doing all that much, since I'm still officially disabled. The realization that I will be here for several months is beginning to make itself clear and I'll be sure to provide more insight and summary of what's gone on as I receive it.

2 comments:

Utah Savage said...

This is the most hopeful and healthy read of my day. I love your voice here. Open, accepting, maybe even optimistic. I look forward to the next update.

Gail said...

Hi Kevin-
It is a privilege to share in this journey of healing with you. Many will benefit from your courage.

Love,
Gail
peace.....