Cutting-edge depression treatments like TMS and Spravato (esketamine) are changing lives, offering renewed hope for those who haven’t found relief through traditional methods.
In the evolving landscape of emotional wellness care, cutting-edge depression treatments are offering new hope to millions of people living with major depressive disorder (MDD).
For those who have not found relief through traditional therapies, breakthroughs like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato (esketamine) are transforming how depression is treated.
Read on for a look at two of the cutting-edge depression treatments we offer at Sonder:
Limitations of traditional depression treatments
For decades, antidepressants and talk therapy have been the cornerstone of depression treatment. However, these methods are not always effective. According to the STAR*D study, only 27.5% of patients achieve remission with their first antidepressant, and the likelihood of success diminishes with each subsequent medication. This gap underscores the need for alternatives.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): An alternative to medication
TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. Delivered in outpatient sessions, TMS requires no anesthesia, medication, or downtime, making it an attractive option for individuals with busy lives.
- How it Works: TMS targets the prefrontal cortex, helping to reset neural activity in ways that alleviate depressive symptoms.
- Efficacy: Studies show TMS can be effective for patients with treatment-resistant depression, with many experiencing significant symptom improvement or remission.
- Accessibility: With growing insurance coverage, TMS is becoming increasingly accessible to patients.
Esketamine: A fast-acting option
Esketamine, a nasal spray derived from ketamine, offers another innovative solution for treatment-resistant depression. FDA-approved in 2019, esketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants by targeting NMDA receptors in the brain.
- Rapid Relief: Esketamine acts within hours or days, making it an option for individuals experiencing severe or suicidal depression.
- Supervised Care: Administered in a clinical setting, patients are monitored during each session to ensure safety.
- Complementary Approach: It is often used alongside traditional antidepressants to enhance effectiveness.
Why these treatments matter
TMS and esketamine represent a paradigm shift in depression care. These treatments provide hope for those who have struggled for years without relief, allowing patients to reclaim their lives and function more fully. Importantly, their emergence highlights the broader movement toward personalized and science-backed approaches in mental health.
What’s next in depression treatment?
The future of depression care lies in further innovation and refinement. Researchers are working on advancing precision treatments, such as tailoring TMS stimulation patterns to individual patients and exploring other receptor targets for esketamine. The goal is to continue reducing the trial-and-error process and provide faster, more effective care.
Get started today
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression and has not found relief through traditional treatments, TMS and Spravato (esketamine) might be viable options. The first step is to consult with a healthcare provider who can help determine whether each approach is appropriate for your situation.
The benefits of TMS and Spravato (esketamine) extend beyond merely treating symptoms—they can help individuals reclaim, and even improve, their quality of life.
For more information on how these cutting-edge depression treatments can help you or someone you care about, please reach out using the contact information below.
Interested in learning more about the cutting-edge depression treatments we offer at Sonder?
TMS at Sonder
Fill out the form on this page and a member of our team will contact you within one business day. You can also reach us via email at tms@sonderwellness.com or call (952) 999-6097 (ext. 103).
Spravato (esketamine) at Sonder
Fill out the form on this page and a member of our team will contact you within one business day. You can also reach us via email at spravato@sonderwellness.com or call us at 952-999-6097 (option 1).