Depression affects millions of people worldwide and can be debilitating for those who experience it. While traditional antidepressant medications can be helpful for many individuals, some experience treatment-resistant depression, where traditional medication is not effective.
Luckily, the FDA has approved alternative treatment options for treatment-resistant depression. In this blog post, we explore two non-medication options for those struggling with depression: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy and Spravato.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy
TMS therapy is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. The therapy uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain that are involved in regulating mood and emotions.
According to Dr. Mark George, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, "TMS works by delivering highly focused magnetic fields to specific areas of the brain, inducing electrical currents in those areas. With enough magnetic fields, you can produce an electrical current large enough to make brain cells fire."
Research has shown that TMS therapy can be effective in reducing symptoms of depression, with one study showing that approximately 50% of patients responded positively to TMS therapy.
Spravato
Spravato is a nasal spray that was approved by the FDA in 2019 for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression. The active ingredient in Spravato is Esketamine, which is a faster-acting form of Ketamine.
According to Dr. Julie Carbray, a professor of psychiatry at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, "Esketamine works on the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which is involved in synaptic plasticity, or the brain's ability to form and change neural connections in response to life experiences. Esketamine also induces changes in the levels of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that is essential for healthy brain function".
Research has shown that Spravato can be effective in reducing symptoms of depression, with one study showing that approximately 70% of patients who received Spravato experienced a significant reduction in depressive symptoms.
Conclusion
While traditional medications can be effective in treating depression, some individuals experience treatment-resistant depression, where traditional medication is not effective. Luckily, alternative treatment options such as TMS therapy and Spravato are now available for those struggling with depression. We offer both of these in Roots Mental Wellness.
It is crucial to discuss these alternative treatment options with a licensed mental health professional to determine if they are appropriate for your individual needs. With continued research, we can hope for even more effective treatment options for those struggling with depression.
Remember, seeking treatment is a personal choice, and it is important to find the right fit for your individual needs. Always prioritize your safety and wellbeing, and discuss any questions or concerns with a licensed mental health professional. Contact us today to get a free assessment.
