Treatment Options for Depression: A Guide to Therapy, Psychiatry, and TMS
Depression can feel like an insurmountable challenge, but it’s important to remember that there are many treatment options for depression, and you don't have to navigate this alone. Understanding the various treatment options for depression is an essential first step in finding relief. Since depression manifests differently in everyone, it often takes time to discover the right approach for you.
In this article, we’ll cover key treatment options for depression, including psychotherapy, medications, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Related: 6 Signs of Mental Illness
Therapy: A Foundational Treatment for Depression
Therapy remains one of the most well-known and accessible treatment options for depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a popular approach that helps individuals recognize and challenge the negative thought patterns that fuel depression. Additionally, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) focuses on emotional regulation and improving relationships, offering another pathway to managing depression’s impact.
Therapists work alongside you, providing a safe space to explore your emotions and develop personalized coping strategies. Therapy can be delivered in various formats, whether in-person or through convenient online sessions, allowing you to choose which treatment option fits best with your lifestyle.
Related: How Therapy Helps With Depression
Medication: Another Common Treatment Option
For some, therapy alone may not provide complete relief from depression. This is where medication comes into play. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), are commonly prescribed to help regulate brain chemicals that influence mood.
While medication may take several weeks to show its full effects, many individuals find it an important part of their treatment plan. However, it’s essential to work closely with your psychiatrist, as antidepressants can have side effects, and not everyone responds to them in the same way.
For those who do not experience sufficient relief from therapy and medication, exploring additional treatment options for depression is crucial. That’s where TMS comes in.
Related: How to Sleep Better Without Medication
TMS: An Innovative Option for Treatment-Resistant Depression
If traditional treatments haven’t provided the relief you need, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers an innovative alternative. TMS is a non-invasive therapy designed for individuals with depression who haven't responded well to medications or therapy alone.
TMS works by using gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. Unlike medications, TMS does not involve chemicals or cause systemic side effects. It’s a well-tolerated procedure, with patients remaining awake and alert during the 20-minute sessions.
Many individuals find significant relief through TMS, particularly those who have struggled with treatment-resistant depression. In fact, 83% of patients experience relief from depression, and 62% experience complete remission and totally recover from depression.
If you’re exploring new treatment options for depression, please reach out, and one of our expert TMS coordinators can help you decide if TMS is right for you.
Related: What to do if Antidepressants Don’t Work: TMS Therapy
Combining Treatment Options for Depression
It’s essential to remember that managing depression often requires a multi-faceted approach. Many individuals benefit from combining therapy with medication or integrating a method like TMS into their overall treatment plan. Tailoring treatment to address different aspects of your mental health can lead to more comprehensive and lasting results.
Related: Food & Mood: How Are They Linked?
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Seeking help for depression is a brave first step, and understanding your treatment options is an important part of that journey. At Nystrom & Associates, our compassionate team is ready to provide support, whether through therapy, psychiatry, or TMS therapy. We’re here to help you find the right treatment plan for your unique needs.
Call 1-844-NYSTROM or visit our website to learn more about TMS and other effective treatment options for depression.
