Treatment-Resistant Depression
What is Treatment-Resistant Depression?
Although there is not an established definition for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), many models and professionals have commonly put forward that an individual’s depression can be considered treatment resistant when at least two trials of pharmacotherapy (ex. antidepressants) are unable to improve depressive symptoms.
TRD symptoms can vary in severity, so it is important to try various approaches and options in order to determine which is beneficial for a particular individual.
Options for TRD
- For medications, individuals may want to contact their physician to discuss altering their medication dosage or changing their medications.
- Counseling or psychotherapy by a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist can be very beneficial.
- Alternative treatment procedures can also be considered and discussed with a physician, including:
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
- Ketamine
- Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
