I'd use 1X4 at 16"oc, perpendicular to the ceiling joists.

There are three problems, no? One is that danged blown-in insulation but that can be ignored for the most part. I have it; I did it to myself and it's a remodeler's bane.

The second is the falling ceiling. Other than R&R, you have two choices: pull it up to the overhead joists or push it up from below with 2X4s. I can think of different scenarios where one way would be better than the other, and vice versa. Betcha it's heavy!

How short of a span do you have where you could push up a heavy ceiling with 2X4s, also loading them with more drywall and mud, and not induce some sag? Can you support this ceiling plane from above in the attic? snoonyb suggests keeping things light, so the 1X4s he recommends would be actual,battens.

In regards to claustrophobia inducements, do you have a high ceiling to start with?

Screw it back up with plaster washers. It's worth a shot anyway.

If I do this, I'll be replacing a suspended ceiling. I've got reasonably high ceilings, so that shouldn't be a problem. I would try to secure the plaster and lath as much as possible before installing the battens.

The room is about 15 x 15.

I'm open to other ideas if anyone has them.

Thanks!