If you’ve tried these treatment options previously and have failed to find relief, a visit to a ketamine clinic may be the best option to find depression treatment that alleviates your symptoms.
Major depressive disorder is a difficult mental health disorder that causes persistent depressive symptoms and impairment of a person’s daily life. Major depressive disorder affects about 16.7% of the population ages 18 and older. Many situational factors can lead to temporary depression symptoms, for example getting fired, the loss of a loved one, or other difficult situations, however, major depressive disorder is different in that it is a psychiatric disorder where manifestations of low mood and hopelessness are prolonged and persistent (longer than two weeks).
There are some approaches to major depressive disorder treatments that have been around for years. However, some cases are more treatment-resistant, and there are new options out there if the traditional treatments do not work. To fall under the category of treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a person has to notice a lack of meaningful response to two full antidepressant trials. Unfortunately, the cause of depression has been oversimplified in the past. Now, people have caught onto the fact that there may be other avenues to explore that would elicit more favorable and effective results for some. Let’s take a look at different options for major depressive disorder treatments.
The Old
Therapy
A blended approach to therapy is generally taken, and the types vary on a case by case basis. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy, and psychotherapy are all effective major depressive disorder treatments. A common misconception is that psychotherapy is just for mild depression, but that simply is not the case. It can give people a new perspective which promotes self-esteem, relationships, and a person’s outlook on life. This type of therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments listed below.
Antidepressant medication
Antidepressant medications are usually on the first line of major depression disorder treatments and can produce optimal results for some. Generally, an antidepressant medication prescription is paired with therapy. SSRIs, SNRIs, atypical antidepressants, tricyclic antidepressants, MAOIs, and other forms of medications may be used depending on the circumstances and symptoms. Unfortunately, not everyone’s depression is improved by antidepressant medication. In fact, more than half of people do not see improved symptoms based on medication alone.
The New
Transcranial magnetic stimulation
This treatment is a safe, effective, and non-invasive option for many people suffering from depression, especially if they do not respond to medication or other measures. TMS works by creating a magnetic field that produces a small electrical current in a specific part of the brain. This current sends pulses to the nerve cells in your brain that are involved in regulating mood and symptoms of depression. The magnetic field is created using an electromagnetic coil that delivers pulses through the scalp. TMS devices were approved by the FDA in October 2008. A vast majority of individuals find significant relief after TMS treatment, making it a viable option for people who have exhausted more traditional options.
Ketamine infusions
Research has shown that ketamine has antidepressant properties that can be useful in helping to treat depression. Approved by the FDA, this form of treatment at a ketamine treatment center is a good option for people who have treatment-resistant depression and have explored other treatment prospects without the desired results. Four to six treatments of ketamine followed by periodic maintenance sessions can drastically improve depression symptoms if nothing else has worked. A person who responds to ketamine can have rapidly decreased suicidal thoughts and other drastic improvements from depression symptoms.
Acupuncture
This technique uses fine needles on pressure points of the body for therapeutic purposes. It is being researched more and more, as some research studies have shown promising results for treating depression. Acupuncture is an alternative to medication and has been shown to significantly reduce the severity of depression in some people. Many people note that it is relaxing and releases endorphins, resulting in greater overall health and mood as well.
The Coming Soon
Psychedelics
Although not yet approved, the FDA is hoping to speed up research on psychedelics as a means to treat major depressive disorder. Psilocybin, which is a hallucinogenic substance found in magic mushrooms, can give people the temporary boost they need to get out of depressive states. Relief was shown to last up to five weeks after two doses, which can be compared to antidepressant medications, which people have to take every single day. While research is still being done, this may be a viable option for those who are categorized as treatment-resistant and feel out of options.
Vitalitas Denver is a leading ketamine treatment center with psychiatrists on staff who can help you determine the best options for major depressive disorder treatment, whether it be ketamine infusions or some combination of the depression treatments described above. If you or a loved one is suffering from debilitating depression, there’s no reason to delay. Complete the brief form below to contact us and take the first step towards mental health and wellness.
