Demi Engemann, star of the reality show "Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," has revealed a surprising secret to keeping her marriage to Bret Engemann spicy: ketamine therapy. During an episode of the "Viall Files" podcast, Demi, 30, shared that ketamine has been a "next-level" tool in strengthening her relationship with Bret, 46.

She explained that ketamine has helped her and Bret to have deeper conversations and connect on a level they never thought possible. "It takes you out of your conscious state and you’re able to, really, diminish your pride and let down your walls and be able to speak heart-to-heart. Like, I never had deeper conversations in my entire life," she said.

Demi further explained that she and Bret prefer microdosing ketamine therapy, which they undergo together with Bret remaining sober. "We kind of talk through our stuff," she said, adding that her costar on the show, Mayci Neeley, has also tried ketamine therapy.

Mayci, 29, was initially skeptical of the therapy but was convinced by Demi's positive experiences. "She tells me about her experiences with it [and] she’s like, ‘I found out what I got divorced. I’m a whole new person,’” Mayci said on the podcast. "Meanwhile, I was like a cartoon character floating in the clouds, like, I was an avatar with a tail."

While both Demi and Mayci have had positive experiences with ketamine therapy, they both acknowledge that it's not for everyone. Demi shared that she and Bret are still trying to expand their family and are currently facing fertility struggles. "We’ve been trying for, like, four years and nothing yet," Demi shared on the podcast. "So, that was a big story line that I don’t think made it into the show. I mean, Bret literally jacked off into a cup on camera and it didn’t make it. They put a black box over it [and] actually we had sex [on the show], which was even more awkward."

Despite the challenges of trying to conceive, Demi and Bret are optimistic and remain committed to their relationship. "We’ve been trying for, like, four years and nothing yet," Demi told Viall. "So, that was a big story line that I don’t think made it into the show. I mean, Bret literally jacked off into a cup on camera and it didn’t make it. They put a black box over it [and] actually we had sex [on the show], which was even more awkward."

A Controversial Approach

While ketamine therapy has been shown to be effective in treating depression and pain management, its use as a relationship enhancement tool is less well-established. Some experts caution that ketamine can have potential side effects and should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Ethical Considerations

The use of ketamine therapy as a relationship enhancement tool raises ethical concerns. Some argue that it can be used to mask deeper relationship issues, rather than addressing them directly. Others point out that the use of a controlled substance for non-medical purposes can be problematic and potentially addictive.

The Future of Ketamine Therapy

While the use of ketamine therapy in a romantic context remains controversial, it highlights the evolving nature of relationship counseling and the search for alternative approaches to enhance intimacy and connection. As more research is conducted, a clearer understanding of the potential benefits and risks of ketamine therapy in relationships will emerge. Only time will tell if it becomes a mainstream approach to relationship enhancement.

The Real Takeaway: It's Complicated

It's important to remember that every relationship is unique, and what works for one couple may not work for another. The use of ketamine therapy as a relationship enhancement tool is a complex issue with potential benefits and risks. Ultimately, it's up to each individual couple to decide if it's right for them.

A Note on Substance Abuse

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).