Depression is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions. The signs and symptoms of it are well-known—persistent feelings of sadness, difficulty concentrating, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. However, not all forms of depression are easily treated with traditional antidepressant medications and therapy. For those who have not responded well to multiple treatment options, they may be diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This type of depression is often chronic and can significantly impact daily functioning and overall quality of life, but there is hope.

Treatment approaches like Spravato® for depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy and other emerging treatments are providing new options for those with TRD. If you’re looking for Spravato® treatment services in Massachusetts, Northeast Health Services is here to help. Call 508.794.8711 today to discover your options.

What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

Treatment-resistant depression is a type of depression that does not respond well to traditional treatments. It is typically diagnosed when an individual has tried two or more antidepressant medications without experiencing significant improvements in symptoms. This can be frustrating for both the person with TRD and their loved ones, as they may feel like there are no effective treatment options available to them.

The causes of TRD are not fully understood, but researchers believe it may be a combination of genetic, environmental, and biological factors. Some studies have also shown that individuals with a history of trauma may be more likely to develop TRD.

Whether you have been diagnosed with TRD or are experiencing symptoms that do not seem to improve with traditional treatment, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. A proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan can significantly improve your chances of managing symptoms and finding relief.

Signs of Treatment-Resistant Depression

The signs of TRD may be similar to those of other forms of depression, but they are more persistent and severe. These signs may include:

• Persistently low mood
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or chronic pain without a clear cause

If you have been experiencing these symptoms for an extended period of time, it may be a sign that traditional treatments are not effective for you and that you may have TRD.

Effectiveness of Spravato® and TMS Therapy

For those with TRD, traditional antidepressants and therapy may not be enough. That’s where emerging treatments like Spravato® and TMS therapy come in.

Spravato® is a nasal spray medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of TRD. It contains esketamine, a type of ketamine, and works by targeting glutamate receptors in the brain. This can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

TMS therapy, on the other hand, uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain that are thought to be involved in depression. This non-invasive treatment has been shown to have significant benefits for those with TRD, including improved mood and a reduction in symptoms.

Both Spravato® and TMS therapy have shown promising results for those with TRD, providing new hope for individuals who have not found relief with traditional treatments.

Call Northeast Health Services Today for Depression Treatment Services

If you or a loved one are struggling with TRD, know that help is available. Northeast Health Services offers Spravato® treatment services and TMS therapy in Massachusetts to those who have been diagnosed with TRD and are looking for new options. Our compassionate team of mental health professionals will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. Don’t give up hope—call 508.794.8711 or reach out online today to get started.