Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is identified when at least two medications in two classes fail to alleviate your symptoms.
It is a type of major depressive disorder (MDD) in which your symptoms persist without adequate relief despite treatments. Up to one-third of adults with MDD also have treatment-resistant depression.
Despite its name, the term ‘treatment-resistant’ does not mean a dead end. There are still effective treatment options available for TRD.
At Kimball Health Services, we understand the frustration and resilience of patients coping with TRD. Our mental health care provider, Ron Strachan, APRN, explores various treatment approaches and creates a personalized plan to help you find effective results.
We believe that with the right combination of therapies, medications, and support, it's possible to overcome even the most stubborn cases of depression.
The most obvious symptom of TRD is the persistence of depressive symptoms despite multiple attempts at treatment with different antidepressants. Other notable symptoms include:
TRD is diagnosed in patients who have already been diagnosed with another form of depression. It occurs when symptoms persist despite trying at least two different classes of antidepressants for six to eight weeks.
At Kimball Health Services, we understand that accurately diagnosing TRD requires a thorough approach and detailed evaluation of various factors. This includes a careful review of your mental health condition and the treatment process.
Ron Strachan, APRN, conducts a detailed review of your medical history. This includes analyzing previous illnesses, chronic conditions, and any genetic factors that may influence your depression.
We look into your medication history, including past antidepressants and psychotherapy treatments, to understand what has been tried and its effectiveness. Our team will also examine your medication adherence, including dosages, duration, and types of medications used. This involves checking for any signs of misuse, non-compliance, or drug interactions that could be affecting your treatment outcomes.
TRD can sometimes be misdiagnosed if patients do not follow dosage instructions as given by their healthcare provider. That is why it is crucial to stay on course with your medication.
To better understand your experience, we may ask specific questions such as:
When you fail to get the desired relief from your treatment, it's important not to lose hope. TRD does not mean that all treatment options are exhausted - there are still effective paths forward.
At Kimball Health Services, our team collaborates with you to refine your treatment plan to suit your needs and response. This plan may include a combination of medication, psychotherapy, or advanced therapies.
Finding the right antidepressant is often a process of trial and error. Most people with TRD do not respond well to initial treatments, but that does not mean achieving relief is impossible. It is important to consider all options. Here are some common approaches to finding the right medications:
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is another integral component of treating TRD. Several psychotherapeutic approaches can be explored until the right one is found for your unique needs.
Psychotherapy can be used in conjunction with medications to help address the underlying causes of depression. It may take some experimentation to find the right therapeutic fit, but we will be there to support you every step of the way.
If traditional approaches are not effective, alternative treatments may offer a solution. At Kimball Health Services, we work closely with you to explore additional treatment avenues, including:
These innovative therapies have shown promise in alleviating symptoms for those with TRD. We can provide referrals to specialists who excel in these treatments.
TRD can be a challenging condition that affects your daily life and may seem discouraging at times. But at Kimball Health Services, we are dedicated to helping you find relief through personalized care.
There is always hope, and our team works closely with you to discover the most effective treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. To schedule a consultation with our healthcare providers, please contact us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online.
