I also have TRD. I finally agreed to ECT because something has to change. I feel that ECT is like many drugs — is the risk more/less the ECT outcomes. ECT is supposed to be the most effective therapy for severe depression and the memory loss is normally brief (if at all)

Otherwise, EMDR might be worth a try, especially if you’ve experienced trauma. I’m also getting great benefits from Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, but it is hard to find an IFS trained therapist.

I’ve been tried on several meds. Two made me suicidal, and around 5-6 didn’t work at all. I’m being trialed on Effexor right now. Also consider supplements that might work for you. If you have low folate, L-methylfolate might work (I became over-methylated on it); low dose Saffron is also supposed to be good..

I empathize with your struggle, as I myself have TRD. I have been through the gambit of meds over the years and about 3 years ago I gave up hope that my lifelong battle with depression was going to improve. However, after being in one of darkest places for so long I found some real relief FINALLY, my HOPE! My therapist suggested I try Ketamine and I will tell you NOTHING has ever pulled me out of the depression like Ket has and kept working long term. It works I would say almost instantaneously! I felt so much better by the very next day. You should really read the studies done on Ket therapy for TRD and PTSD by Yale and by others in the study of Mental Health. I'm not sure where you live and if it's offered anywhere but I would certainly research Ketamine treatment and I would seriously consider giving it a shot like I have. I had gotten to the point where I thought, "what do I have to lose of it doesn't work?" I mean I was already giving up hope and I was not looking forward to the old, "it will take 4-8 weeks to see if it's going to help"! This last time my depression was so bad I felt like I didn't have the strength mentally to wait 4-8 weeks for a 50/50 chance of feeling like I could get out of bed & be the wife & mom I loved being!!
Anyway, check it out and maybe it's something that piques your interest and maybe it the l thing that helps you feel better too!! Best Wishes❣️

Anyone have a good solution?

I have tried multiple medications and ECT over the years. The only thing that has really worked is the nasal spray Spravato. It is a form of ketamine. I have been on it since 2022 and it has changed my life. From the first dose I felt a huge difference. It is FDA approved and many insurance companies cover it.

I pray it really helps
I walk outside
Talk to my family
Best to you
Blessings

Hi you can get a Genomind test.
They test your saliva for the D. N a to tell when and what medications are good for you, which are not good for you.And which just don't work.
They go through all the medications and give you a chart.So you know what medication is gonna work best for you.
They are a little pricey, but if you ask them, they will reduce your bill to $300.
Let me tell you, it's well worth it.

Have you tried OTC medication called, "Melatonin?"

My Dr here at the rehab put me on it, it worked for a day only. Next day, I am back to my insomnia.

Do not know what to do.
Walk a mile, if you can. Get tired and fall asleep.
VJ

I have been battling depression for many years, and insomnia for a long time. I tried a sleep study. All I was told that I have bad insomnia and restless leg syndrome. A lot of lab work. I'm not anemic or have a vitamin deficiency. GeneSight test to show which meds would be best, okay, and not a good fit for me. TMS last year. Walking and going on different diets. Last month I tried Spravato. It seems like it's getting better. Sometimes I feel nauseous and throw up. If I planned better, I don't throw up.
In a few months, I'll be working with my health coach again that does functional medicine.

I have already asked my Psychiatrist to get me free samples of antidepressant medication. But, he said that he didn't have any source of Pharmaceuticals giving him any samples for my depression.
Thank you.
VJ

Dear @myacct123 ,
I am 72 years old, was diagnosed with bipolar depression in my forties, and spent decades battling with crippling TRD, in and out of psychiatric institutions while trying to raise a family of 4 children. I empathise with what you are going through - severe depression is almost impossible to describe to someone who has not experienced it. It poisons your whole life. Over the past few decades I have been on innumerable medication regimes - some seemed to work for a while, then 'pooped out', and I had to start all over again trying different medications and combinations. At last I seem to have hit upon a combination that works for me, and have been stable and well for years. Don't give up! There are endless possibilities of medications and combinations out there, and you will find something that works for you. You have to have patience - I know it is hard and discouraging to start something new and have to wait for weeks to find out whether it helps, but do not give up hope. Apart from medication, my psychiatrist of 20 years recommends two things to deal with depression; a regular sleep routine (I know it is easy to say that!) and a regular daily routine. Getting up at the same time every day, having regular routines and activities, and above all trying to engage despite yourself. You may have to force yourself into a routine, but this helps with the circadian rhythm; just lying in bed will hinder your recovery. Be careful of supplements. I was taking regular multi-vitamins, and started to get numbness and weaness in my limbs, and had several falls. A comprehensive blood test showed that I had 600 TIMES the normal level of Viamin B6 in my body! Don't jump onto the latest bandwagon on the internet, discuss other options with your doctor before you start anything. I feel for you, and am thinking of you here in far-away Australia.