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Cannabis may help in combating ‘treatment resistance depression’, says new study

Are you battling depression for a longer period of time with absolutely no treatment working for you? Then you must be dealing with what is termed as treatment resistance depression.

So, what is treatment resistance depression?

Statistics reveal that around 40 million people suffer from depression in the United States, which has compounded manifold during the pandemic. More staggering is the statistics that mention around 3.2 million adolescents, aged between 12-17 years grapple with depression. Not just the adolescent population that is reeling under depression, 17.3 million young adults (aged between 18 and 26 years) are also in the grip of this malady. But, if we compare the treatment statistics with the suffering index, the data is quite unnerving. Almost 60% of the adolescent population and 30% of the adult population never receive treatment for depression.

Out of the population receiving treatment, around two-third of them never respond to any treatment for depression or medication for depression, while third of the population do not respond to several attempts of treatment or combination of therapies. This condition is termed as treatment resistance depression, which affects around 30% of the overall population. Treatment resistance depression can leave you hopeless, alone and battered by repeated failure in depression treatment.

Now, there is ray of hope from a very recent study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology in March 2021, titled “Cannabis induced oceanic boundlessness”. This study focused on using large doses of cannabis to combat symptoms of treatment resistance depression, cancer and cigarette or alcohol dependency.

The study was conducted inducing high dose of cannabis under medical supervision and controlled conditions on patients battling with chronic and ‘treatment resistance depression’. It showed 17-19% achieved a milestone of reigning over their prolonged treatment resistance depression. This experiment concluded that mystical experience induced by cannabis can change brain chemistry and one’s mental health. The mystical experience was measured in context to around 11 dimensions of consciousness, developing insight of inner worth and spirituality.

However this is not the only positive breakthrough achieved by using drugs for treating mental health. Previously also it was established that psilocybin revived 59% of patients suffering from depression. MDMA use in treating PTSD is already in its third trial phase. However, other studies also explored the effect of cannabis on mental health.

In the past century, cannabis and its effects on mental health was widely criticized in the scientific community, mainly because clinical research on cannabis was banned. Restricted by the DEA, cannabis grown only in the laboratories was allowed to be used for experiments. However, research is still banned on cannabis sold on the legal market in the United States.

As per the current laws in all the states of the US that allow the use of medical marijuana, no state lists depression as a condition that requires marijuana intervention. Several states have included anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as qualifying conditions for mental health. But, there is no mention of depression in context to using marijuana for treatment since long. But, one particular study in 2019 garnered a lot of attention— based on a smaller database than the other studies cited here—which linked cannabis to a higher incidence of psychosis.

How We Can Help?

Dealing with a condition like treatment resistance depression can be overwhelming. Continuous failure of treatment plans can leave people devastated, demoralized. However, in some cases depression may take its time to heal normally and multiple trial and error methods are required to achieve recovery.  

The mantra to defeat depression is never to give up and accept the symptoms of depression. Remember, the longer depression lasts, the more difficult it will be to treat. We at Depression treatment helpline can suggest a wide array of treatment programs in your vicinity. You can consider approaching inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. If you or a loved one is suffering from depression contact the Residential Depression Treatment Helpline Center and Inpatient Depression Treatment Helpline Center to avail proven treatment modalities like talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, equine therapy, group therapy, family therapy, biofeedback, etc.

If you want to know more about our treatment options please contact us at our toll free number 866-619-5591

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Are Depression Treatment or Rehab Centres Important for Long Term Recovery?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 300 million people struggle from the symptoms of clinical depression every year but only 60 percent of these seek treatment. These statistics are quite alarming because if depression is not treated in its early stage, it can get worse affecting social, professional, and personal life.

Why Are Depression Residential Treatment Center Required?

Depression is mostly interwoven with some traumatic event in life such as a toxic relationship, broken marriage, death of loved ones, long-term illness, financial loss, or any other unpleasant or unwanted event in life. But depression can also occur without any life-changing trigger. This means that depression can occur due to change in brain chemistry (fluctuations in hormonal level).

In cases, where the patient is suffering from severe depression, only medications and outpatient counselling is not enough. The chances of relapse are high in such cases. Getting admitted to a depression rehab center for long-term residential treatment has proved to be effective in treating depression from the ground level, preventing chances of relapse. Studies have shown that depression treatment in residential treatment centers has saved millions of lives.

Are Depression Treatment Facilities  Effective?

Effective rehabilitation translates to comprehensive treatment. This is about helping people change their lifestyles to support future recovery. Rehabilitation therapy aims to educate patients on how to lead a healthy, happy, and productive life. The goal of any quality rehabilitation center is to teach the patient life skills including how to manage emotions, communicate effectively socially, and overcome daily difficulties.

For an effective depression treatment plan, choose a rehabilitation center that offers a structured treatment plan including therapies like talk therapy, and psychotherapy and medication. Rehabilitation treatment is usually carried out in cooperation with a large number of staff, including therapists, medical experts, counselors, and medical staff, who work together to provide a comprehensive treatment plan.

The Depression Treatment Helpline partners with depression treatment centers that offer physical and occupational therapy, along with medication and intensive care, as well as evidence-based interventions that promote a slow but far-reaching recovery environment. Here experts investigate the root cause of depression such as any childhood trauma, any particular incident, or substance abuse that may have led to the development of depression.

How Do Rehabilitation Centers Benefit?

The symptoms of depression vary from person to person. Some people can overcome the overwhelming mental disorder from counseling and meditation while for others the struggle might be long. Rehabilitation centers are beneficial for those patients where appropriate environment is required for recovery. These centers focus on first identifying the cause and then determining a planned treatment intervention, which might include a mixture of cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, alternative therapies, and meditation. All these treatments are done under a controlled environment to prevent relapse of depressive episodes.

Rehabs work towards gaining the confidence of the client so that they can be taught how to transition back to normal life. This includes teaching the patients how to identify their symptoms, how to manage them, slowly getting back to their social life, avoiding triggers, finding a job, learning coping skills like meditation, deep breathing exercises, being communicative, learning to live in a family and the society.

Another thing that rehabs work relentlessly towards is changing the thought process of the patient. The treatments are planned in such a way that the negative thought process is broken and replaced with a positive style of thinking. Even the older behavioral patterns are replaced with new healthy lifestyle behavior.

A person enrolled in a depression rehab center is promised support even after they leave the rehab center. The rehab center introduces the patients to support groups, which help them forge friendships with like-minded people, taking the first step towards their social life and transition into normal life. After care support can also be availed in the form of regular online or offline visits to the therapists and seeking their help whenever required.

How To Know If A Person Should Opt for a Rehab Centre?

It is crucial to identify the symptoms of depression and recognize its severity. Once depression aggravates to more serious levels, it triggers suicidal thoughts, emotional hurt, and substance abuse. If you or a loved one exhibits any of the symptoms below, then seek help immediately.

Experiencing low mood all the time

Sleep disorder or insomnia

Feeling of anxiousness and fear

Nausea

Headache

Vomiting

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

Loss of interest in all enjoyable activity

Guilt

Feeling worthless

Loss of focus

Relationship problems

Disturbed work-life balance

Unable to control the feeling of being sad

Get Help Immediately

Recognizing the early signs of depression is important to prevent symptoms from getting worse. If you or someone you love is displaying any of the symptoms shown above, seek help as soon as possible.

Take the first step by connecting with the Depression Treatment Helpline. Call at our 24/7 depression recovery helpline 866-619-7729 to know more about reputed depression treatment centers in California near you. You can even chat online with one of our representatives on our depression treatment helpline to understand what kind of Residential depression treatment programs are offered.

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Ways to Support Someone with Depression

Depression, an incapacitating and an isolating disorder, can jeopardize relationships, if not handled well. A person living with a depressed individual might feel neglected and deprived and in turn, adopt an indifferent approach. Sometimes, he or she may feel like walking on the eggshells because of the attitude and reaction of the depressed person. However, it is important to understand that with a little care and some effort, the relationship can be salvaged. Here are some steps that can be taken to extend support to a depressed person:

Trying to be there with them: Depression can get agonizing for the depressed individuals and their loved ones. Nonetheless, one can still provide support by holding hands, providing reassurance that everything will be alright through the eyes or by giving a gentle back rub. One can also say comforting words like, “You are not alone in this,” “We will find out a way together” or “You are so important to me.”

Trying small loving gestures: Some people are not very comfortable with emotional expressions. They can still extend their support by trying gestures like packing a lunch for the one who is depressed, leaving a care or a love note in the lunch box, sending them a text after regular intervals, helping them with the laundry, doing grocery shopping for or with them, accompanying them for a walk, etc.

Avoid judging or criticizing: It can be very tempting to tell a depressed person that he or she is overreacting or lacking a perspective; however, these words can puncture a person’s self-esteem. Thus, these must be avoided Depression is a serious mental disorder that can’t be won over with a change in outlook or by developing strong willpower. It is important that a friend or a loved one validates the feelings and emotions of the depressed person so that the latter can think of moving forward.

Paying attention to their self-care: Oftentimes, depressed people find it hard to pay attention to their self-care. They might not get out of bed the whole day, might skip meals, might not take shower for days, etc. This is the time when a friend or a loved one can pitch in and help them make their bed, eat some hot and nutritious meal, take a shower, and exercise and meditate.

Rewarding them instead of punishing: Threatening a depressed person by saying things like, “If you don’t take care of yourself, eat dinner, sleep on time, I’ll end this relationship,” is a merciless way of telling them that they are awful. Instead, one should use statements that are rewarding and encouraging at the same time like “Oh! You are up early, shall we go for a run?” or “Wow you cooked dinner, should I help with the dishes?”

Encouraging them to challenge their negative thought processes: Depressed people have serious negative thinking patterns. It is important for a friend or a loved one to help them question these thoughts empirically. For example, if they say, “I’m worthless,” or “I’m horrible,” one must ask them gently what makes them think like that and this discussion should be helpful in breaking the negative patterns.

Depression is curable

Depression is treatable and one must never challenge the power of treatment. Even though the self-help and support systems can help in the symptom alleviation, none can be as helpful as therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. Therefore, one must help the depressed to seek treatment.

If you or your loved one is suffering from depression or its symptoms, seek help from the Depression Treatment Helpline. Call at our 24/7 helpline (866) 619-7729 to get credible information about one of the best depression rehab centers in your vicinity.

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Mental Health Month: Tips for Parents to Help a Depressed Teen

Jenny was a vivacious child who befriended people wherever she went, respected elders and was quite chirpy. But things changed when she entered sixth grade. Her parents noticed that she had become aloof, didn’t like to talk to anyone anymore, stayed in her room most of the time, lost appetite and weight, and was no longer interested in going to school.

As Jenny turned 15, her symptoms appeared more serious. A worried mother took her to a doctor who diagnosed the young girl depression and advised cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and some antidepressants. Like Jenny, nearly 3.1 million American youths aged 12 to 17 experienced one episode of major depression in 2016, with females and ethnic minorities being afflicted more than males.

Some symptoms of depression in a teen are:

Extreme anger and irritation

Feeling of helplessness, hopelessness and suicide

Use of alcohol and other substances

Sudden withdrawal from activities and hobbies

Drop in grades

Changes in eating patterns

Sudden weight gain or loss

Parents should take mental health of their children seriously because untreated conditions can carry into adulthood and lower the quality of life. Many teens do not open up about their problems for the fear of being stigmatized and ostracized. To battle the stigma and encourage meaningful conversations about the importance of good mental health, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and others organizations observe May as the Mental Health Month.

Challenges of living with a depressed teen

Parenting a teen with depression is challenging. However, things may improve by the following parenting tips:

Communicate effectively – It is important to assure teens of unconditional support from the family to get them talking. When they talk, parents must resist the urge to confront or pass judgment. It is also important to understand that it might be difficult for a teen to communicate the afflictions of his/her mind. Nevertheless, parents should be attentive, actively listen and make their children comfortable. No matter how irrational it may sound, it is also important to acknowledge and understand feelings of sadness and pain expressed by a teen. If the child is still taciturn, a third party intervention can be arranged through a counselor, an older sibling or a favorite teacher.

Encourage social interactions – It is indispensable to spend face-to-face time with the child every day. There should be no distractions or hurry during this time. In addition, parents should encourage teens to interact with their friends by asking them to go out or inviting them over. It is important to keep children engaged so that they do not have any free time to while away and feel depressed. Parents should enroll their kids in any sports or a class activity. Volunteering activities boost self-esteem and rekindle sense of responsibility and compassion.

Focus on physical health – Depression is worsened by inactivity, poor eating habits, too much screen time and lack of sleep. Teens must be encouraged to devote at least an hour to some physical activity, like sports, horse riding, hiking, or walking the dog. In addition, they must be fed with nutritious food to maintain optimal mental health. They should be encouraged to spend minimal time online as screen addiction compromises with their mobility and time that should be devoted to real interactions. To remain fresh and active, parents should make sure that children sleep eight to 10 hours at night.

Reach out for support

Sometimes, teens are not able to open up and continue living in their shell. It is then indispensable for parents to immediately institute professional support and prevent worsening of the problem. When the child goes through treatment, he/she should be made feel valued, accepted, loved and cared for.

If your loved one is showing symptoms of depression or any other mental health disorder, contact the Depression Treatment Helpline to get connected to depression rehab centers. Our representative can help with useful information about depression centers offering holistic recovery programs. Call our 24/7 helpline 866-619-7729 to know more.

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The Rock Talks About Depression

“I’ll never, ever be full. I’ll always be hungry. Obviously, I’m not talking about food. Growing up, I had nothing for such a long time. Someone told me a long time ago, and I’ve never forgotten it, once you’ve ever been hungry, really, really hungry, then you’ll never, ever be full.”

-          Dwayne Johnson

Better known as The Rock, the American actor recently revealed about his close battle with depression during his growing days. He thus joins the long list of celebrities, like Lady Gaga, Sarah Silverman, Jon Hamm, etc., who have come out in the open about their struggle with depression. Known for his action-packed sequences in movies, Johnson’s frailties came to the surface after his mother tried to kill herself one day by walking into an oncoming traffic. Quite close to mom Ata and dad Rocky, the Fast and the Furious star said that he underwent a hard time after the incident and was consistently crying.

Thankfully his mother survived, as he was able to pull her back from the road. However, she has no recollection of the event, which the star believes is good for her. Though both Johnson and Ata have moved on, they made it a point to help others undergoing a similar situation. Described as one of the biggest stars of Hollywood, with a fan base across the continents, Johnson had reached out to another star, Davina McCall, an English model and television presenter, on Twitter, when it seemed that she was going through a troubled patch after the failure of her marriage.

Talking about the incident involving McCall, the star mentioned that he intervened because, “I’ve been there, I have been in a dark place, and if there’s one thing she needs it is to talk things out, because nobody should be suffering in silence.”

Suffering in silence

Depression is one of the most curable mental disorders, yet millions of people suffer in silence. Their condition remains undiagnosed. One of the prominent reasons why people are afraid of coming out in the open about their depressive tendencies is that they are worried about other’s opinion. While some simply do not care, others are openly contemptuous of the situation. Even to this day, many consider depression to be a moral failing, which could be cured if the patient went on with his or her work instead of lying about in bed, which is unreasonable. For a person suffering from clinical depression, the very act of getting out of bed or finding pleasure in everyday things could seem like a mammoth task.

Having no option and often feeling that they have failed themselves and their family, they go through their day-to-day activities, pretending that they are okay, not taking leaves from work and sometimes even making fun of their situation to fit in. However, once they are alone – no one to talk to – they realize the futility of the condition and sometimes go to the extent of taking their own life.

Depression not a moral failing

It must be kept in mind that depression is not a sign of weakness or mental instability. It is an illness that can be treated through timely intervention. It is important to identify its symptoms and act accordingly. Some common symptoms of depression are prolonged periods of blues, loss of interest in daily life, etc. However, there are other less significant symptoms, which could also indicate the existence of a depressive disorder.

People grappling with depression are oblivious to normal feelings. They often work like crazy as work seems like a remedy for their loneliness and misery. They tend to toss and turn in bed due to the lack of sleep quite frequently as anxiety and depression work on the subconscious level. As depression impairs the judgement capacity, they prefer someone taking their decisions. Other symptoms include agitation over little things, bursting out in tears or anger, and feeling touchy about others’ comments.

The Depression Treatment Helpline can help you find comprehensive treatment programs instrumental in achieving depression recovery. If you or a loved one is grappling with depression and is in need of effective depression treatment help, call our 24/7 helpline number 866-619-7729 for the best advice.

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Curing Depression With Ketamine - Pros and Cons

“Ketamine's such a waste of time drug. All you do when you're on ketamine is go: 'Oh, I'm on drugs. I don't feel good, I don't feel bad, I'm just on drugs...”

Richard Melville Hall, the celebrated electronic musician who goes by the moniker Moby, has described his brush with drugs and thereafter his sustained efforts to come clean a waste of time. Ketamine is an extremely powerful general anesthetic used widely as a party drug. It has gained notoriety as a date rape drug. However, a study published in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry has contradicted these claims by highlighting its pivotal role in curing certain mental disorders.

The study claims that ketamine can be used as surefire cure for certain types of depression. Therefore, it has been hailed as one of the most important discoveries in half a century. It has led to a massive debate among advocates and sceptics. It can prove a positive intervention in the case of the people living with a form of depression that has failed to respond to other medications and dogged by recurring thoughts of suicide. Some other studies suggest that ketamine can put depressive thoughts to rest with immediate effect. Generally, people going through depression need a fast-acting solution, which is not provided by the antidepressants available in the market. Generally, antidepressants take time to kick into action.

Ketamine affects reward and gratification centers of brain

In the course of the study, Cristina Cusin, psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital and assistant professor at Harvard University, analyzed 40 ketamine studies involving brain imaging. She noticed that people who were administered ketamine experienced marked brain changes in certain key areas of the brain involved in the regulation and control of emotions. The study further concluded that ketamine decreases the ability of the individual to self-monitor his or her emotions. When a person is less sensitive or less aware of how the emotions are unfurling in the brain, there are reduced chances of his or her taking drastic steps like committing suicide.

Many scientists have highlighted that ketamine also leads to the blunting of emotions. When this happens, one does not experience emotions like hopelessness, sadness, vulnerability, etc. to the fullest. As a result, there are lesser probabilities of people taking recourse to suicide. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), approximately 123 people could be killing themselves each day because of depression and related mental illnesses. It further states that around 90 percent of people who have committed suicide had a mental illness at the time of their death.

Apparently, talk therapies, sedatives and hotlines are sometimes not enough to prevent people going through depression from committing suicide. Instead, they could require something more potent to alleviate their pain and chemical imbalances inflicted by their mental condition. Although antidepressants are a standard cure for clinical depression or major depressive disorder (MDD), they might not deliver effective results in some people. For those falling in the category of treatment-resistant depression, ketamine seems like a miracle as the results are apparent within 24 hours and sometimes last for days.

Despite the above-mentioned clinical benefits of ketamine, researchers and medical practitioners warn about the drug due to the limited research on its long-term impacts and side effects. Some of common side effects seen in patients include dizziness, blurred vision, elevated blood pressure, dissociation, etc. Moreover, some studies have associated the long-term use of ketamine with bladder inflammation, liver damage, cognitive impairment, etc.

Dealing with depression

Depression is an extremely debilitating condition that affects health and quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the warning signs to avoid any delay in treatment. Though a novel finding, ketamine runs risks as a treatment approach for depression. Apart from its addictive property, one needs to keep in mind that ketamine has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

If you or your loved one is suffering from depression, bipolar or any other mental health condition, do not attempt to self-medicate with alcohol or any legal or illegal drugs. Seek help from the Depression Treatment Helpline to know about the depression treatment help centers near you. Call our 24/7 helpline number 866-619-7729 to know more about the treatment centers for depression in your vicinity.

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Vagal Nerve Stimulation - Placebo or Alternative Cure for Depression?

Depression knows no barriers. It can strike anyone, anywhere and anytime. While the standard treatment for depression is medications, including depressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), as well as therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy and group therapy, sometimes, a patient doesn’t respond to the treatment.

Under severe mental strain, the depressed individual then takes recourse to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) where electric signals are sent through the brain. These help to sort out chemical imbalances that caused the mental health condition. But under extreme circumstances, even ECT provides no relief or only temporary respite and may result in a relapse. Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy, primarily used in controlling epileptic seizures, is fast proving to be a sought-after treatment for those who do not respond to the traditional mechanisms.

Understanding VNS therapy

The premise of VNS is simple. It works on the vagus nerve, which is the longest cranial nerve in the human body passing from the neck to the thorax and the abdomen. This nerve plays a crucial role in monitoring key functions in the human body. In case there are variations such as increased breathing, the vagus nerve relays messages to the brain regarding how to respond. During VNS therapy, the care giver inserts a small gadget similar to a pacemaker below the neck which activates the nerve.

Skepticism regarding the benefits of the therapy has remained among the medical fraternity, though its function as a placebo has been disapproved by psychiatrist Prof. Hamish McAllister-Williams from Newcastle University. Though he admits that not much is known about its efficacy in cases of severe depression that remain unresponsive to traditional treatments, he is sure that the impact of VNS is not akin to a placebo. Placebo is immediately activated and ends quickly, whereas VNS takes six months before its impact can be felt.

In a 2013 study on depressed patients who were resistant to treatment, it was observed that those who were provided adjunct VNS along with routine treatment for depression, the response rates were higher than when one only depended on treatment as usual (TAU). Another study by psychiatrist Scott Aaronson also revealed that VNS when used with TAU had better long-term outcomes than in case of only TAU.

Commenting on the study outcome, Aaronson said, “The tolerability of the device is terrific. The main side effect is hoarseness because the recurrent laryngeal nerve [that supplies the voice box] comes off the vagus nerve.” He suggested that the side effects could be controlled by temporarily turning off the device by holding a magnet over it.

Apart from hoarseness in the voice, the therapy also causes frequent coughs, breathing difficulties and changes in heart rhythm. It may also result in one’s depression or mania getting aggravated. Therefore, it is necessary to exercise caution before recommending bioelectric therapies for depression.

Alternative treatments for depression

There are many novel therapies for combatting depression. Their use with standard treatments is extremely effective for keeping the condition under check. Three such therapies that engage one’s thoughts constructively while keeping negative thoughts at bay are as below:

Art therapy: One can engage in creative arts even without having a prior experience in dance or drama. These activities open the body and mind to a different experience and help one connect to him/her self. They help release all negativity and boost confidence thereby reducing symptoms of persistent sadness and low mood, characteristics of depression.

Mindfulness therapy: Both mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) promote emotional well-being and awaken positivity. Such therapies focus on being in the present without worrying about the past or future. They encourage a person to get attuned to one’s senses and gain better understanding and control of their thoughts and behaviors.

Eco therapy: As the name implies, eco therapy helps one connect with nature. Whether it is through walks in the nature or horticulture, it relies on the potential of the nature to heal, soothe and calm.

Do not let depression mar your life

The World Health organization (WHO) reports that depression is the number one cause of disability worldwide affecting more women than men. However, with proper medication and treatment, one can lead a quality life. It is important to seek advice from a certified mental health practitioner who can diagnose the condition in time and suggest appropriate treatment.

If you or your loved one is suffering from depression, contact the Depression Treatment Helpline to get information about the best depression recovery centers offering evidence-based intervention plans. Call our 24/7 helpline 866-619-7729 to find out more about the depression rehab centers near you.

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Neurofeedback May Help Cure Treatment-resistant Depression

Living with a mental disorder like depression can be awfully debilitating. However, living with depression that does not respond to treatment can be comparatively more dangerous. Such a condition, commonly known as treatment-resistant depression (TRD), affects about one-third of those with depression. People suffering from TRD could work doggedly toward recovery from depressive symptoms for months or years without any sign of relief even after the multiple rounds of treatment.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide that affects more than 300 million individuals across the globe. Despite the considerable progress made in the field of depression treatment, there has been no headway in addressing TRD. The failure of different types of antidepressants in alleviating depressive symptoms in the case of TRD can prove quite demotivating.

With as many as 100 million individuals grappling with TRD worldwide, any attempts to attain functional recovery from this problem may seem elusive. However, a recent Korean study has displayed that neurofeedback has the capability to improve both individual symptoms and the overall recovery in TRD.

Neurofeedback changes unique brainwaves

The problem of TRD remains enigmatic and incomprehensible for mental health experts. Some consider that TRD may be at play when a patient does not respond to two different classes of antidepressants, others necessitate depression to be resistant to at least four different treatments for a TRD diagnosis. Regardless, individuals with TRD are left with limited options and often struggle with depression treatment. However, a recent study suggests that neurofeedback offers a viable treatment when patients concentrate on modifying their brainwave patterns along with antidepressants.

Prior studies have showcased that different moods are associated with distinct brainwaves. Based on this conclusion, the study enrolled 12 patients with TRD and 12 controls with major depressive disorder (MDD) who displayed residual symptoms and functional impairment after undergoing antidepressant treatment. The participants were asked to change the levels of only those brain waves displayed on the computer screen.

For the study, the patients underwent a 12-week regular session to learn the art of changing their brainwaves in response to audio and visual signals under beta/sensorimotor rhythm and alpha/theta training. In addition, their psychological progress was measured via standard questionnaires at weeks 1, 4 and 12 that entailed factors, such as interpersonal relationships, ability to work and family life.

The key findings of the study are as follows:

Eight of the 12 participants who underwent neurofeedback responded to treatment, while five of them improved enough to meet the criteria for remission.

The control group did not exhibit any improvement from baseline after 12 weeks.

According to Henricus Ruhe, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Psychiatry Raboudumc, Nijmegen, “This is a very interesting study targeting remaining depressive symptoms in patients who insufficiently responded to previous treatment trials of antidepressants. Although the number of included patients are small we should consider this pilot study as promising and suggesting that alternative approaches might be beneficial in nonresponding depressed patients.”  

Given the fact that neurofeedback has no side effects, Professor Eun-Jin Cheon of Yeungnam University Hospital, South Korea suggests that it can improve the symptoms of patients with TRD and empower them to lead successful lives as a complementary treatment. In addition, this intervention approach could also improve self-efficacy by active participation and voluntary treatment.

Although the study sample size was relatively small, the new approach has the potential to treat patients with TRD who are otherwise considered an untreatable group of patients. Only further research will determine if this approach is viable for clinical treatment and inclusion in the future guidelines for treating depression.

Depression does not define an individual

TRD can leave anybody feeling discouraged; however, the failure of multiple treatments does not necessarily mean that an individual is in a deadlock. Because different patients respond to treatment differently, it is important to find the right approach with the collaboration of health care providers. Besides accessing an effective treatment, one should share his or her inhibitions and fears with an expert.

If you or your loved one is battling the symptoms of depression, it is advisable to seek professional help. The Depression Treatment Helpline assists in accessing depression recovery centers that specialize in delivering evidence-based intervention plans. Call at our 24/7 helpline number 866-619-7729 to know more about top depression rehab centers near you.

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Oxytocin Helps Tackle Postpartum Depression, Says Study

Childbirth is considered the most joyous experience in a woman’s life; however, for some it may not be the case due to childbirth complications, such as delayed labor, weak contractions of the womb and heavy bleeding because of the contraction of the uterus. For the women who experience such problems may be administered synthetic oxytocin as the hormone oxytocin assists in stimulating uterine muscles, inducing labor, speeding the delivery of the placenta and reducing the risk of post-delivery hemorrhages. Manufactured oxytocin is delivered to induce labor if it doesn’t start naturally.

Besides playing a vital role in childbirth, oxytocin also has other functions. As a hormone, oxytocin is not only essential for numerous organs, including the breast and uterus, but also as a chemical messenger in the brain it controls the key aspects of the reproductive system, such as childbirth and lactation. Oxytocin is produced by the hypothalamus and secreted into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland.

Recent studies show that oxytocin plays an important role in shaping social behaviors and affects human behaviors, such as sexual arousal, recognition, trust, anxiety and mother-infant bonding. It is also associated with a range of neuropsychiatric functions, such as schizophrenia, mood and anxiety disorders. In an array of psychiatric diseases, there has been an evidence for oxytocin dysfunction. Moreover, oxytocin decreases cortisol release and anxiety in response to stress, while it reduces amygdala activity to fearful or threatening situations.

Synthetic oxytocin for postpartum depression

Scientists suspect the role of synthetic oxytocin in the development of depressive and anxiety disorders after childbirth due to its impact on social behaviors, particularly maternal behaviors. It is also a well-known fact that oxytocin acts as a mediator of postpartum depression and anxiety. To understand this relationship, Kristina Deligiannidis, M.D., Feinstein Institute for Medical Research in New York and her colleagues examined data on peripartum patients who were intravenously administered synthetic oxytocin between 2005 and 2014 at the University of Massachusetts Memorial Health Care.

The study was published in the journal Depression and Anxiety. It comprised 9,684 participants who were administered peripartum synthetic oxytocin called Pitocin two weeks prior to delivery date to assist them in childbirth. Around 37,048 deliveries without peripartum synthetic oxytocin exposure were taken as the control group. Depending on the advent of the diagnosis for depression and anxiety, duration of antidepressant or anxiolytic medication prescriptions, the participants were divided into three groups:

Prepregnancy (diagnosis and prescriptions over one year prior to delivery)

Pregnancy (diagnosis and prescriptions during pregnancy or 40 weeks ahead of delivery date)

Postpartum (diagnosis and prescriptions one year after delivery)

The researchers made the following observations:

Exposure to peripartum oxytocin increased the risk of depression or anxiety in the first postpartum year by approximately 32 percent in women with no history of prepregnancy depression or anxiety.

Women with a history of prepregnancy depression or anxiety disorders, the exposure to the peripartum oxytocin increased the risk of depression or anxiety by approximately 36 percent.

The risks for the onset of postpartum depression and anxiety was present in women who have given birth multiple times.

Although the researchers could not safely gauge the impact of synthetic oxytocin on the endogenous levels of oxytocin, they concluded that synthetic oxytocin can adversely impact postpartum moods. According to Deligiannidis, “Since synthetic oxytocin is such an important and commonly used medicine for peripartum women, further research should examine dose, duration, timing, and the reason for treatment so that we can better identify which women may be at risk for developing postpartum depression and anxiety.”

Treat postpartum depression to build stronger relationships

It is common to experience sadness or melancholy following childbirth. However, when the overwhelming feeling of sadness and despondency persists for over two weeks, it is likely that the woman may be developing postpartum depression. In such a situation, it is essential for one to seek medical intervention at the earliest to avoid further aggravation of the woman’s condition.

If you or a loved one is grappling with depression, be it related to childbirth or otherwise, it is important to seek professional help. The Depression Treatment Helpline can assist in accessing the best treatment options, including residential depression treatment centers that specialize in delivering holistic and evidence-based intervention plans. Call us at our 24/7 helpline number 866-619-7729 to know more about inpatient depression treatment centers around you.

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Depression can Develop in Kids Sooner than Previously Believed, Finds Study

Though the symptoms of mental health conditions in children can mimic that of adults, the way to express them may be different. The responsibility of identifying the signs and symptoms of mental disorders in children lies on their parents. However, many adults fail to identify the symptoms because of lack of awareness about the warning signs.

It will be wrong to suggest that children are not vulnerable to mental illnesses because they don’t face any kind of stress and burden. Unfortunately, children can experience a wide range of mental disorders that interfere with their daily tasks and relationships with others, such as anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), eating disorders, mood disorders and depression.

The early identification of the symptoms of any festering mental illnesses in children not only helps them in coping with the challenges, but also safeguards them from witnessing similar symptoms in future. Generally, early exposure to any form of mental illness often turns out to be one of the regular behavioral patterns. Consequently, it becomes a major hurdle in the way of effectively treating mental health conditions.

According to a study, mental illnesses generally begin at the age of 14. However, another recent study, published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, based on examination of studies of more than 3.5 million people across 90 countries, suggested that gender differences in both symptoms and diagnoses of major depression can begin at the age of 12.

Gender gap in depression demands attention

A meta-analysis, conducted by the researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and co-authored by Janet Hyde and Rachel Salk, looked at the key difference in the diagnosis and symptoms of major depression, particularly at the age of 12. The study found that depression was twice as likely to develop in females while only one-third of males experienced this mental disorder. In addition, the researchers discovered a significant gender gap at the age of 12, which is earlier than what has been used in the previous studies.

The higher risk of depression in teenage girls was believed to be the consequence of hormonal changes that take place during puberty. However, the researchers advocate the fact that social and environmental factors also play a significant role in the onset of depression. Teenage girls are more prone to experiencing sexual harassment and issues pertaining to body and personality that can contribute to the onset of depression during puberty.

Similarly, the researchers also believe that the processes behind the development of depression begin before the age of 12. Therefore, intervention around this age group can help prevent depression among adolescents, especially girls. Lastly, the study did not find significant differences in the gender gap in participants who were young adults or older adults, thereby indicating that adolescence is a major phase for the development of depression.

The researchers also investigated the association between depression and gender equity in income. It was found that countries with lesser differences in income between males and females witnessed the greater gender differences, i.e. women were more likely to be diagnosed with major depression. This contradicts the researchers’ earlier conjecture that greater gender equity in income would be associated with lesser differences in the gender gap.

According to the co-author Janet Hyde, a professor of psychology and gender and women’s studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, “It may occur because, in more gender-equitable nations, women have more contact with men, and therefore compare themselves to men, who don’t express feelings of depression because it doesn’t fit with the masculine role.”

Depression is an illness, not a weakness

Depression is a treatable mental disorder. Identifying its onset or symptoms at an early age could help prevent its development, as well as reduce the risk of developing the associated health problems. Though depression can manifest differently among children, teenagers and adults, it stems from the similar changes in the brain. Therefore, anyone having symptoms of depression or any other mental disorder must seek intervention to prevent the aggravation of the condition.

If you or your loved one is battling the symptoms of depression, it is imperative to seek help. The Depression Treatment Helpline can help with the information on the best inpatient depression treatment centers that specialize in delivering evidence-based intervention plans across the U.S. Call us at our 24/7 helpline number 866-619-7729 to know more about the comprehensive treatment options around you.

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Sign & Symptoms of Depression in Women - Depression Treatment Helpline helps to find out the sign & symptoms of depression in the patients of California City. Call Depression Rehab Helpline Centers at 24/7 Helpline: (866) 619-7729 for free help.

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The Exact Relationship Between Depression And Suicide

Although the association between depressive symptoms and suicidal behavior is undeniable, the exact level of comorbidity between the two conditions is not. According to the National Institute of Mental Health in 2013, 6.7 percent of American adults aged 18or older experienced at least one major depressive episode within the past year. This translates to approximately 15.7 million adults in the United States. By comparison, the mortality rate data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 41,149 suicides in the same year.

Although a comprehensive comorbid study has not specifically explored depression and suicide, multiple studies across the globe have touched on the topic in related observations, such as:-

• In the 1993 study, “Mental disorders and comorbidity in suicide,” 59 percent of 229 Finnish suicide victims were diagnosed with a depressive disorder beforehand.

• In a German sample from the 1994 study, “Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts: comorbidity with depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorder,” researchers found that 16 out of 18 subjects who attempted suicide met the full requirements for clinical depression.

• Those who conducted the study, “Mental Disorders, Comorbidity and Suicidal Behavior: Results from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication,” in 2011 concluded that having symptoms of suicidal ideation was best predicted by depression. However, depression did not predict a transition from ideation to an actual suicide attempt.

Individuals afflicted with major depression or suicidal ideation should contact the Depression Treatment Helpline. Our representatives connect callers and online users with treatment centers for depression to solve severe sadness. Call for professional support at 866-619-7729.