Treatment-resistant depression is a subclass of major depressive disorder (MDD). It results when traditional treatment for MDD doesn’t prove effective. It’s typically defined as an unsatisfactory response to at least two trials of antidepressants. Research suggests that anywhere from 10% to 30% of people with MDD will experience treatment resistance. By the time a person is eventually diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression, they usually have reached a point where they’re overwhelmed. They may even feel frustrated by their symptoms and treatment history. It’s important to know that finding the right kind of treatment for your depression is possible. You shouldn’t be so discouraged by your treatment resistance that you give up treatment altogether.
What are the causes of treatment-resistant depression?
Experts aren’t sure exactly what causes depression. They also find it difficult to pinpoint the causes of treatment resistance. But most professionals believe that treatment resistance may have to do with genetics. They also believe that brain chemistry and stress levels contribute. Research suggests that chronic levels of stress can contribute to treatment resistance.
What are some treatments for depression?
Have you been struggling with treatment-resistant depression? Have traditional modes of treatment like talk therapy and antidepressants been unhelpful? You may want to read these brief summaries of the newest depression treatments:
- TMS therapy — One of the newest advancements in depression treatment is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. TMS therapy involves transmitting magnetic pulses to the brain, targeting regions of the brain that control depression and low mood. Increasing brain activity in these areas helps alleviate depressive symptoms, even for those with treatment-resistant depression. In fact, 79% of patients who try TMS see meaningful results. TMS is an effective and noninvasive form of treatment for depression and doesn’t involve anesthesia with minimal side effects.
- Esketamine therapy — Another new type of treatment for treatment-resistant depression is esketamine therapy, otherwise known as Spravato. Esketamine is a derivative of the controlled substance ketamine. Esketamine is a nasal inhalant that is administered under professional supervision over several sessions. It’s designed to quickly reduce the symptoms of treatment-resistant depression.
Active Path Mental Health can provide the latest advancements in depression treatment
Major depressive disorder can be overwhelming even before you begin treatment. This is especially so when you experience resistance to your treatment. Fortunately, there are depression treatments that can help you better your relationships with others, function with greater ease and improve your quality of life. Our Active Path Mental Health team can help you better manage your depression symptoms. We specialize in providing treatment via methods including TMS therapy, esketamine treatment and talk therapy.
Active Path Mental Health is proud to say that patients can receive treatment from locations in both Oregon and Washington. The team members at each one of our locations are dedicated to helping patients recover from depression. But don’t just take it from us, take it from our patient reviews.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.
