Treatment resistant depression (TRD) is a condition that affects around one third of all adults with major depressive disorder. It occurs when symptoms do not respond to two or more antidepressants. However, the exact cause of this condition is unclear.
Some scientists claim that the best treatment for this condition is a combination of two things: medications and talk therapy. Combined, these treatments have been shown to be more effective than either medication or therapy alone. For instance, in a study, cognitive-behavioral therapy improved the symptoms of people with TRD by about 50%. The best part is that it is free.
Antidepressants work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that play a key role in mood. When these two chemicals fall below their normal levels, it causes feelings of sadness, anxiety, or even apathy. They can also improve the quality of life for those with depression.
Fortunately, antidepressants can be a helpful treatment for the symptoms of TRD. However, it is important to remember that these medications are not magic pills. You will have to take them for the right length of time and at the right dose. If you stop taking them too soon, your depression symptoms may return. So, it is important to stick with the treatment plan you have put together.
Other approaches to treating TRD include using stress reduction techniques. These include writing in a journal, doing tai chi, and yoga. Stress can worsen depression, so it is a good idea to look for ways to reduce it. In addition, it is wise to consult with your doctor regarding any prescription medications you are taking. Certain drugs may actually make your depression worse.
The best way to find out about the latest treatment techniques is to speak with your doctor. A doctor will assess your history and your current medications. He or she will likely suggest a new approach. Also, a doctor may want to test you for any underlying conditions you have, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. This will help determine the best course of action.
Talk therapy may be a great option for patients with treatment resistant depression. One type of therapy, called cognitive-behavioral therapy, involves working with a mental health professional who will use a variety of methods to address your depression. Specifically, a therapist will encourage you to see your own thoughts and behaviors more clearly.
Other therapies, such as ECT, are a bit more invasive. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a process in which a surgeon implants electrodes on the brain. The session lasts about five to ten minutes and is usually administered two to three times a week.
A new approach to the treatment of TRD has been introduced in the form of vagus nerve stimulation, a noninvasive therapy that stimulates nerves in the vagus nerve, which runs along the front of the neck. Studies have shown that this therapy is more effective than standard depression treatments and is often offered to people who have tried other options.
