Do you know Depression, especially treatment-resistant depression can be subtle at first but then it demonstrates that it's like a parasite that steals everything and wants to kill the host? This article will help you learn more about what is treatment-resistant depression and what can be done for it.
Treatment-Resistant Depression- Definition
The term "Treatment-Resistant Depression" often refers to major depressive episodes that do not respond satisfactorily to at least two trials of anti-depressant medication or an inadequate response to one, [or at least two or more], antidepressants.
Treatment-Resistant Depression- Identification & Causes
It is true that there are thousands of people that get well with only standard treatments. These people return to a normal life of fun and happiness. However, there are many people for whom treatment does not work, not at all. These people continue to live their lives with depression and feel hopeless and sad, disinterested and even suicidal.
Consider you have been to psychologists and received counselling and treatment for depression, have gone through months or maybe years trying to find the proper medication for your depression and nothing worked or have not improved you could be suffering from treatment-resistant depression.
It is important that you discuss with your psychologist very openly and honestly about your problems. If you are looking for help, leave nothing out. Think of everything and talk about everything.
What causes Treatment-Resistant Depression?
Resistant depression can be as a result of alcohol or substance abuse. The continued bad relationship between you and your spouse or with other family members is also said to exacerbate the situation. Chronic pain can also reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants as well as other treatments leading to resistance.
This illness affects people of all ages and is a very dangerous and disturbing mental disorder. Most people who suffer from this condition normally recover after treatment. If this condition is left untreated, it can lead to devastating consequences. It is therefore important to seek proper and timely treatment before the situation becomes severe.
Help and Treatment strategies for Resistant Depression
Treatment options can include many different modalities. Usually, the first level of alternative care is achieved by medications recommended and alternative therapies-
Treatment options can include many different modalities. Usually, the first level of alternative care is achieved by medications recommended and psychotherapy and alternative therapies like -
- Neurofeedback: Neurofeedback or Neurotherapy is a method that helps improve your brain function by intensive brain training exercise. Though the technology is sophisticated, the method itself is simple and painless. It is much like learning through feedback and practice.
- TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)- This is a treatment that involves repeatedly delivering very, very short magnetic pulses to the part of the brain that is most believed to be involved in depression.
- Electroconvulsive Therapy- This is probably the most effective treatment for depression, but to be effective it requires that a seizure (convulsion) be triggered. Therefore, it must be conducted in a hospital setting, using sedation and muscle relaxation.
In addition to other modalities of treatment, other newly emerging methods of direct and select brain stimulation have been shown to produce efficacious results as well for treatment-resistant depression.
Through all of this you must also:
Practice Living Well. Eat a balanced diet. Exercise a little bit every day (to the extent your body allows and your physician approves). Minimize smoking, drinking. Attempt to connect with loved ones frequently. None of this may be easy when you are depressed, but overcoming treatment resistance requires you to do your part to the extent that you can.
If you or someone you know may be dealing with Treatment-Resistant Depression talk to us today.
If you need more information about Treatment-Resistant Depression identification and treatment strategies, mail your queries to info@cadabamshospitals.com. Or visit us at Cadabam’s Hospitals. Alternatively, you call at our 24/7 helpline number- +91 97414 76476.
