Mary L. Trump, a prominent critic of her uncle, former President Donald Trump, and an out lesbian, has revealed in her new memoir, Who Could Ever Love You: A Family Memoir, that she turned to ketamine therapy to battle severe depression. Her emotional struggle, she writes, was triggered by the tumultuous years following Donald Trump’s election, a period that thrust her into a deep and overwhelming despair.
The memoir, set to be released on September 10, details how Mary Trump, a trained psychologist and bestselling author, found herself grappling with the stress and isolation that came with being linked to one of the most divisive figures in American politics. In December 2021, she chose to undergo ketamine therapy, a decision driven by a need to regain control over her life, which had been slipping away due to the relentless pressure and public scrutiny.
Mary Trump’s journey is not just a personal story but also a commentary on the broader challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, especially those who find themselves in the crosshairs of political and social controversies. Her struggle with depression is a stark reminder of the mental health crises that many LGBTQ individuals endure, often exacerbated by societal and familial rejection.
The effectiveness of ketamine as a treatment for severe depression, particularly for those who have not found relief through conventional methods, is well-documented. Mary Trump’s decision to seek this unconventional therapy highlights the lengths to which people must sometimes go to find peace and stability, especially when living under the shadow of a powerful and controversial family member.
In her memoir, Mary Trump also touches on the ethical and medical implications of ketamine therapy, acknowledging its risks but also its potential to provide rapid and significant relief. Her story serves as both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on the mental health struggles that many in the LGBTQ community continue to face, particularly in an environment that can be hostile and unforgiving.
Mary Trump’s openness about her mental health journey, particularly as a member of the LGBTQ community, underscores the importance of accessible and effective mental health care. Her story sheds light on the unique pressures that LGBTQ individuals may encounter, especially when they are publicly connected to powerful and polarizing figures. Her memoir is a powerful reminder that mental health struggles, while deeply personal, are also part of a larger, collective experience for many within the LGBTQ community.