Frankie Bridge has bravely shared her feelings about her ongoing battle with mental health, revealing a poignant mix of gratitude and disappointment regarding her ketamine therapy sessions. The 37-year-old star, known for her candid discussions about depression and anxiety, has been public about her journey with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and the role this controversial therapy has played in her life.
A Personal Revelation
In a heartfelt YouTube vlog, Bridge disclosed that she is nearing the end of a seven-week course of weekly ketamine treatments. This therapy, while not without controversy, has been a lifeline for her, providing support where other methods have failed. “Going forward, I’m going to see how long the benefits last and then I’ll do top-ups,” she explained, reflecting on her ongoing need for this support.
Her openness continued as she expressed her mixed emotions after a recent follow-up appointment: “I’m not fixed. I need these ket appointments to keep me on track.” As she spoke, tears welled in her eyes, revealing the vulnerability that lies beneath her public persona. “A part of me is disappointed that I still need it because some people, they don’t ever need it again,” she lamented.
The Journey to Acceptance
Bridge has been transparent about her mental health struggles for years. She first disclosed her experiences with anxiety and depression in her 2020 memoir, *Open: Why Asking for Help Can Save Your Life*. Reflecting on her earlier experiences, she recalled the fear she faced before her initial ketamine treatment, admitting, “I’ve never had that feeling of completely letting go.”
The singer, who has often battled feelings of control, acknowledged that surrendering to the effects of the treatment was a significant step for her. “It’s just the only thing that really helps me long-term,” she reiterated, underscoring the profound impact of the therapy.
Understanding Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine, classified as a Class B drug in the UK, is usually associated with recreational use but is increasingly being recognised for its potential in treating severe mental health conditions. Under controlled conditions and supervised by healthcare professionals, it can offer relief to those suffering from TRD. Bridge described how the therapy has been instrumental not just in addressing her immediate symptoms, but in reshaping her mental pathways.
“It’s very good at bringing things up that maybe in the past you have pushed down or not acknowledged,” she explained. Her insights highlight how ketamine therapy can facilitate deep emotional processing, allowing individuals to confront issues that may have been previously overlooked.
A History of Struggle
Bridge’s candidness doesn’t stop at her current treatment. She has shared her journey through a mental breakdown in 2011, when she was just 21. Hospitalised for severe depression and anxiety, she found an unexpected sense of relief during her stay. “You’d think I’d hate it, but it was a nice memory. It was the first time in years I felt really relaxed,” she recalled, illustrating the complexities of her experiences with mental health.
Her resilience and commitment to sharing her story have resonated with many fans, inspiring those who may find themselves in similar situations.
Why it Matters
Frankie Bridge’s openness about the challenges of mental health and the role of ketamine therapy serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of seeking help and the multifaceted nature of recovery. By speaking out, she not only destigmatises mental health struggles but also encourages others to pursue treatment options that work for them. In a world where mental health is often sidelined, her story stands as a beacon of hope, urging society to foster understanding and support for those in need.
