Treatment Resistant Depression: What can I do?

Posted by myacct123 @myacct123, Jan 11 5:25pm

What are other things that I can do?

Tms lasts only a short time. Ect is connected to memory loss.

Any new medications?

Can’t sleep!

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Depression & Anxiety Support Group.

suzleigh | @suzleigh | Jan 13 6:40pm

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..

mwendt54 | @mwendt54 | Jan 14 11:34am

In reply to @suzleigh "I also have TRD. I finally agreed to ECT because something has to change. I feel..." + (show)

@suzleigh
Good luck to you. TRD is a horrible situation to be in. Hopefully you’ll find something to help you feel better ❤️‍🩹.

realmom3 | @realmom3 | Jan 21 10:57am

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❣️

myacct123 | @myacct123 | Apr 5 12:58pm

Anyone have a good solution?

GetWellSoon26 | @vijay26 | Apr 6 9:52am

In reply to @myacct123 "Anyone have a good solution?" + (show)

I was on Ability for a while. I worked. But, I couldn't afford $100.00 Copay for a supply of 30 pills. I cut it off.

Now, I am on Solid and.its.not working. The Dr says I have to work.

Wait and see kind of response.

Thank you for asking this.important question.
VJ

gently | @gently | Apr 6 12:01pm

In reply to @myacct123 "Anyone have a good solution?" + (show)

myacct123, you might check out stellate ganglion block https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17507-stellate-ganglion-block It's easy, quick and painless without sedation. Best wishes.

david707 | @david707 | Apr 6 12:22pm

In reply to @myacct123 "Anyone have a good solution?" + (show)

Many years ago I went to a SHEN body energy practitioner for relief from my anxiety/depression. Many memories of pain from childhood surfaced. I was so impressed I went to a 7 day workshop where I learned the practice. It is similar to Reiki, a better known energy practice. They are based on the theory that memories and emotions are stored in our chakras, a term for these 7 energy centers. A good Shen or Reiki master can sense where to place their hands to help release stuffed emotions. After 7 days of 14 sessions I was medication free which lasted about a year. Google Shen or Reiki to learn more. There are masters around the world. Worth a try.

Lisa Lucier, Moderator | @lisalucier | Apr 6 1:01pm

In reply to @vijay26 "I was on Ability for a while. I worked. But, I couldn't afford $100.00 Copay for..." + (show)

Hi, @vijay26 - yes, some of those medications can get expensive when you have to pay a significant copay every month. I believe autocorrect may have changed the name of the medication you entered in your post. Confirming the name of the medication you are on now?

GetWellSoon26 | @vijay26 | Apr 6 2:13pm

In reply to @myacct123 "Anyone have a good solution?" + (show)

Hate that autocorrect!

The medication is ABILIFY.

ABILIFY. Just making sure it is.not corrected automatically.
VJ

Lisa Lucier, Moderator | @lisalucier | Apr 6 2:32pm

In reply to @vijay26 "Hate that autocorrect! The medication is ABILIFY. ABILIFY. Just making sure it is.not corrected automatically. VJ" + (show)

@vijay26 - Yes, that autocorrect! 🙂

Here is some Mayo Clinic information on aripiprazole (oral route) (Abilify), in case you've not seen this:

- Aripiprazole (oral route) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/aripiprazole-oral-route/description/drg-20066890

So, if I understand correctly, you are back on this medication you took before, and so far you are not seeing much effect? How long did your prescribing doctor or the filling pharmacist tell you it might take to see some results?