Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent health disorders in the United States, affecting about 17.3 million American adults each year. It causes persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness and anxiety. Major depressive disorder treatments usually involve the use of an antidepressant medication coupled with psychotherapy.
MDD may manifest differently from patient to patient, but some of the more common symptoms include:
• Sadness and anxiety lasting two weeks or longer
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Thoughts or ideations of suicide
• Feeling worthless, or having no hope
• Lethargy, or a lack of interest in usual hobbies
As mentioned, the combination of antidepressant medications and talk therapy is a common first-line treatment for major depressive disorder. However, there are many other options available for major depressive disorder treatments:
• Pharmacological treatments. Many medications can help increase serotonin production in the brain, or address other chemical imbalances of nutritional deficiencies associated with depression. Your physician can prescribe a medication that best meets your needs and symptoms.
• Exercise. Exercise is scientifically proven to improve the mood and reduce mood swings. Furthermore, regular exercise promotes both self-confidence and encourages social interaction with others. Studies show that moderate aerobic activity at least three times per week can help alleviate the symptoms of depression.
• CBD products. Cannabidoil, known popularly as CBD, is becoming a popular treatment for depression, anxiety and chronic pain conditions. Be sure you learn about the various CBD products that are available and how the CBD is extracted from the hemp plant—not all CBD is created equal!
• Natural remedies for depression. Through meditation and mindfulness, an individual suffering from depression can learn to identify and accept—or even change—maladaptive thoughts, which can alleviate depression and anxiety. Furthermore, treatments such as Reiki and Acupuncture can also help promote whole-body wellbeing and lead to a better mood.
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This involves stimulating the brain with electric impulses to treat major depressive disorder.
• CBT Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a standard and popular form of talk therapy that helps a person to become more mindful of their feelings, as well as the circumstances that trigger certain feelings. Through this increased awareness, patients can take more control over their responses. The theory is that, by changing their thoughts, patients can also change their feelings and actions, leading to a more positive outlook on life.
• Ketamine treatment for depression. Ketamine treatment has emerged as a popular treatment for those suffering from severe cases of treatment-resistant depression. Effective for 70% of patients—and fast-acting to boot—ketamine has changed the landscape of depression treatment and saved countless lives.
In Glenwood Springs, CO, our ketamine treatment center and integrative medicine clinic offers ketamine infusions, integrative medicine, and acupuncture to those suffering from depression, anxiety, psychiatric disorders and chronic pain conditions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help you awaken to a new life.
Contact Satori Integrative Medicine Clinic
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