When traditional depression treatments fail to work, it can feel like nothing ever will. If you’ve been diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), know that you are not alone. There are treatments available that offer remission of symptoms.
At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we specialize in innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato to help individuals like you find the relief you deserve. If you have treatment-resistant depression or are battling another mental health condition, there are options for finding lasting symptom relief.
Understanding Treatment-Resistant Depression
A treatment-resistant depression diagnosis is given when a person does not respond adequately to at least two different antidepressant treatments. It can be frustrating and disheartening, but understanding this condition is the first step towards finding the right solution.
Research shows that approximately 30% of those diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) and who have tried medications, such as SSRIs and SNRIs, will develop treatment-resistant depression. The condition is not a super-rare abnormality, and no one should have to struggle in silence.
Why Traditional Depression Treatments May Fail
Traditional depression treatments fail to work for certain people due to a complex relationship between their own biology and individual response to medications. The following overview provides several reasons why standard treatments might not work for everyone.
- Biological Differences: Each person’s brain chemistry is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Studies show that people with TRD are more likely to have physical health conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, heart disease, and thyroid disease.
- Incorrect Diagnosis: Sometimes, the initial diagnosis may miss underlying conditions such as bipolar disorder or anxiety, which can complicate treatment results.
- Medication Issues: Some people may metabolize medications differently or experience intolerable side effects, making it difficult to find an effective dose.
Advanced Treatment Options
If traditional antidepressants haven’t worked, there are advanced treatment options available to you. At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we offer two cutting-edge therapies that are proven to provide relief to those who haven’t been successfully treated.
For more information on the mental health conditions we are able to treat, click here.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Our patients have experienced profound relief from their TRD symptoms when traditional medications weren’t enough. Here’s some reasons why TMS therapy might be a good fit for you.
Proven Efficacy
TMS has been shown to be effective in individuals who have not responded to other treatments. Clinical research demonstrates that TMS can significantly reduce symptoms of depression in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. Many patients who have tried multiple medications without success have found relief with TMS.
Long-Lasting Relief
The majority of patients experience relief from depression for more than a year. Some find remission that lasts indefinitely. Regardless of duration, most patients experience some level of improvement in their mood and overall quality of life.
FDA-Approved Treatment
TMS is a FDA-approved treatment for depression and anxious-depression, highlighting its safety and efficacy. It is not invasive, requires no medications, and has minimal side effects.
It is important to know that TMS is not the same as ECT (electroconvulsive therapy or “shock” therapy). These are very different procedures with TMS having far fewer side effects and therefore tends to be much more favorable to patients.
Flexible Scheduling
Patients can return to their normal routines immediately after each TMS session, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules or responsibilities.
TMS sessions are brief and typically last about 20 minutes. At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we can schedule around your daily activities to minimize disruption to your life. You can return to your normal routines immediately after each TMS therapy session, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules or responsibilities.
And since TMS does not require anesthesia or sedation, there is no recovery period needed post-treatment. Patients are able to drive themselves to and from sessions.
Spravato Treatment
Spravato is a FDA-approved nasal spray designed specifically for treatment-resistant depression. It works differently than traditional antidepressants and can provide rapid relief of symptoms. There are many benefits of Spravato, with some of the most common ones listed below.
- Rapid Relief: Many patients experience improvement in their depression symptoms within hours to days after their first treatment.
- Targeted Treatment: Spravato targets NMDA receptors in the brain, offering an alternative pathway to relief.
- Medical Supervision: The treatment is administered in a controlled clinical setting with the supervision of experienced medical staff. At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we provide patients with the support and amenities they need to make them feel comfortable throughout each treatment session.
- Enhances Therapy Outcomes: Spravato works very well with forms of psychotherapy, such as talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. Therapy and Spravato treatment combined help patients achieve the best and lasting results.
- Works with Antidepressants: Clinical trials have shown that Spravato, combined with an oral antidepressant, significantly reduces depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. This treatment is especially beneficial for those who need quick relief from severe symptoms.
What to Expect During Treatment
Understanding what to expect alleviates the anxiety associated with starting a new treatment like TMS therapy or Spravato. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect from treatment at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry or Indiana Advanced Psychiatry.
The foundation of treatment is your first appointment. We’ll assess your medical history, previous treatments, and overall health to determine the best approach. Your treatments can be covered by insurance, and one of our team members will assist you with the insurance eligibility process.
Based on our evaluation, we’ll determine which treatment option will work the best to treat your symptoms. For TMS therapy, treatment lasts between six to eight weeks, with sessions occurring five days per week. The initial treatment course with Spravato is typically over the course of eight weeks.
Our team will closely monitor your progress and adjust treatments as needed to ensure the best results. If you are interested in working with a therapist during your treatment, we can help you find a trusted one close by.
Contact Michigan Advanced Psychiatry Today
At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care for those battling treatment-resistant depression. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, more hopeful future. Call 248-885-8887 to schedule an appointment.
If you are looking for more information to determine if our treatments are right for you, we invite you to take our self-assessment.
