Living with depression can be incredibly challenging, especially when traditional treatments don’t seem to help. If you’ve tried antidepressants or psychotherapy but still struggle with symptoms, you might be experiencing treatment-resistant depression. However, there’s hope. Let’s explore what you can do to find relief and reclaim your life.  

Here are the TLDR 5 steps:
1. See a Medical Specialist
2. Look at your Medication Options
3. Psychological Counseling
4. Advanced Treatment Options
5. Lifestyle Changes

Understanding Treatment-Resistant Depression

Treatment-resistant depression occurs when standard treatments such as antidepressants and psychotherapy don’t alleviate symptoms. It can be frustrating and disheartening, but it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. According to “Treatment-Resistant Depression: Definition and Treatment Approaches” from the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 10-30% of all people with depression are treatment resistant.

5 Steps to Take if You’re Struggling

  1. See a Medical Specialist
  • Review Your Medical History: They’ll look into your past treatments and how you’ve responded to them.
  • Check Your Medications: They’ll review everything you’re taking to ensure there aren’t any interactions or overlooked factors.
  • Evaluate Medication Adherence: It’s essential to take medications as prescribed and follow treatment plans accurately.
  • Look for Physical Conditions: Physical health issues like thyroid disorders or chronic pain can impact depression.
  1. Look at Your Medication Options
    Finding the right medication can be a process of trial and error. Here are some strategies:
  • Adjust Dosages: Sometimes a higher dose is needed, but this should always be discussed with your doctor.
  • Switch Medications: You might need to try different antidepressants to find the right fit.
  • Combine Medications: Using two types of antidepressants can sometimes be more effective.
  • Pharmacogenetic Testing: This can provide insights into how your body processes medications, potentially guiding more personalized treatment.
  1. Psychological Counseling
    Therapy can help with treatment-resistant depression in several ways:
  • Uncover Underlying Issues: Identify and address psychological or emotional factors contributing to depression.
  • Provide Coping Strategies: Therapies like CBT and DBT teach practical skills for managing negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
  • Enhance Medication Effectiveness: Therapy can complement medication by addressing non-biological factors of depression, potentially improving overall treatment outcomes.
  • Improve Relationships: Interpersonal therapy and family therapy can enhance communication and reduce relationship stress, alleviating depression.
  • Encourage Positive Behavior Changes: Promote engagement in activities that improve mood and advocate for healthier lifestyle choices.
  • Offer Emotional Support: Provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for expressing feelings and experiences.
  • Promote Mindfulness and Acceptance: Techniques like mindfulness help patients stay present and reduce the impact of negative thoughts.
  • Provide Personalized Treatment: Tailored to the individual’s specific needs and circumstances.
  1. Advanced Treatment Options
    If traditional methods aren’t effective, other treatments may be considered:
  • Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): Uses magnetic fields to stimulate brain cells.
  • Ketamine and Esketamine: Provide rapid relief and are typically used in supervised settings.
  • Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): Uses a device to send electrical impulses to the brain.
  1. Lifestyle Changes
    Beyond professional treatment, lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.  Take a look at this article: 6 ways to Overcome Depression without Medication.
  • Stick to Your Plan: Consistency is key in treatment.
  • Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: These can worsen depression.
  • Manage Stress: Techniques like yoga, meditation, and journaling can help.
  • Improve Sleep: Good sleep hygiene is essential.
  • Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can boost your mood.

Depression Treatment in the Denver Area

If you or someone you know is grappling with depression, it’s important to recognize that there is help available. At Self Care Impact, we are dedicated to supporting individuals through the journey of becoming your best self.

Take a look at our Depression Treatment Page for more information. Then we invite you to call us at 720-551-4553 for a free 20-minute phone consultation with a specialist. You can schedule your appointment via phone, or through the contact page on our website. We look forward to hearing from you.

Self Care Impact Counseling envisions a new age of counseling for adolescents, adults, couples, and groups that makes a REAL difference with core values of GROWTH | BALANCE | COMPASSION | INNER HARMONY.