The right treatment is not just about curing symptoms; it’s about improving quality of life and restoring hope.
Kay Redfield Jamison
We know that untreated depression puts individuals at elevated risk for a variety of negative outcomes.
But, what about depression that persists despite trying everything to treat it?
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a challenging condition in which standard treatments like antidepressant medications and psychotherapy fail to produce adequate relief.
Fortunately, there’s a lot we can do to alleviate suffering caused by TRD and help our patients enjoy the quality of life they deserve.
Here are 5 key things to understand about TRD:
1. Treatment-resistant depression is more prevalent than you might think.
TRD— typically defined as depression that persists despite trials of two or more antidepressant medications of adequate dose and duration— affects an estimated 10-30% of individuals with depression.
2. Treatment-resistant depression can be difficult to diagnose.
Diagnosing TRD can be complex and requires careful assessment to distinguish between true treatment resistance and inadequate treatment trials, inconsistent or inappropriate medication use, or co-existing conditions that may affect a patient’s response to treatment.
3. Treatment-resistant depression impairs quality of life.
TRD can significantly interfere with a person’s daily functioning, reduce life satisfaction, and increase the risk of suicide. Prompt and effective treatment is crucial in managing the condition and improving outcomes.
4. Treatment-resistant depression is treatable.
When traditional antidepressants fail, other treatment options may include switching to different antidepressants, combination therapy with multiple medications, augmentation with other drugs (like antipsychotics or mood stabilizers), or non-pharmacological treatments such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
5. Treatment-resistant depression is one of our specialties.
At Sonder, we specialize in a comprehensive approach to treating TRD, blending advanced therapies such as medication management with innovative treatments like TMS. We’re proud to offer personalized care that addresses the unique challenges of each individual. By combining evidence-based practices with cutting-edge technologies, we strive to provide effective solutions where traditional methods may have fallen short.
Whether through medication adjustments, therapy modifications, or TMS sessions tailored to your needs, our goal is to empower you on your journey towards improved mental health and well-being!
Learn more about the TMS treatment and psychiatric services & medication management we offer at Sonder.
Interested in discussion depression treatment options with a member of our team?