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Sometimes depression doesn't get better, even with treatment. Explore what you can do about it. By Mayo Clinic StaffIf you've been treated for depression but your symptoms haven't improved, you may have treatment-resistant depression. Taking an antidepressant or going to psychological counseling (psychotherapy) eases depression symptoms for most people. But with treatment-resistant depression, standard treatments aren't enough. They may not help much at all, or your symptoms may improve, only to keep coming back. If your primary care doctor prescribed antidepressants and your depression symptoms continue despite treatment, ask your doctor if he or she can recommend a health care provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. The psychiatrist reviews your medical history and may:
Treatment-resistant depression symptoms can range from mild to severe and may require trying a number of approaches to identify what helps. Medication strategiesIf you've already tried an antidepressant and it didn't work, don't lose hope. You and your physician simply may not have found the right dose, medication or combination of medications that works for you. Here are some medication options that your doctor may discuss with you:
Psychological counselingPsychological counseling (psychotherapy) by a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional can be very effective. For many people, psychotherapy combined with medication works best. It can help identify underlying concerns that may be adding to your depression. In working with your therapist, you can also learn specific behaviors and strategies to overcome your depression. For example, psychotherapy can help you:
If counseling doesn't seem helpful, talk to your psychotherapist about trying a different approach. Or consider seeing someone else. As with medications, it may take several tries to find a treatment that works. Psychotherapy for depression may include:
Procedures to treat depressionIf medications and psychotherapy aren't working, you may want to talk to a psychiatrist about additional treatment options:
Be sure to find out whether your insurance covers any treatment that's recommended. Other steps you can takeTo make the most of depression treatment:
Don't settle for a treatment that's partially effective at relieving your depression or one that works but causes intolerable side effects. Work with your doctor or other mental health professional to find the best treatment possible, even though it may take time and effort to try new approaches. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. To provide you with the most relevant and
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. Which of the following is seen as an effective treatment for severe depression that does not respond to drug therapy?Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is useful for patients who are not responding well to medications or are suicidal. ECT is an effective treatment for patients who do not respond to drug therapy, are psychotic, or are suicidal or dangerous to themselves.
Which kind of therapy is most closely associated with the goal of altering thoughts and actions?Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective form of psychological treatment that is practiced by many thousands of therapists worldwide. CBT theory suggests that our thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and behavior are all connected, and that what we think and do affects the way we feel.
Which kind of drug is most closely associated with increasing the availability of serotonin?SSRIs increase the amount of serotonin available to the brain, and are commonly prescribed for depression.
Which of the following is most effectively treated with electroconvulsive therapy ECT )?Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for depression.
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