Depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks. After diagnosis, many patients are left wondering how to take a step forward. Remembering depression can be treated in the most severe cases is important. Two of the most effective treatments for depression are ketamine and TMS, which we offer at Cambridge Biotherapies™.
One of the most important factors in treating depression is the initiation of treatment: the earlier it begins, the more effective it is likely to be. Treatments for depression usually include medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two—however, some forms of depression can prove resistant to these typical methods. That’s where Cambridge Biotherapies™ comes in.
For depression that has proven resistant to traditional treatments, we offer both TMS and Ketamine therapy. These treatments are more effective than conventional medications, especially for depression that has not responded to previous medication trials. Both treatments address the brain areas most commonly associated with depression. Ketamine works chemically, while TMS works electromagnetically to rewire the brain, diverting regions and actions closely linked with depressive disorders.
No two people are affected the same way by depression, and there is no “one–size–fits–all” treatment. Finding the best treatment for you may take trial and error. At Cambridge Biotherapies™, we take time to understand the nature of each person’s symptoms and collaboratively decide which treatment will be most likely to help.
If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression.
The presence and severity of symptoms are unique for everyone with depression. Some people experience only a few symptoms, while others may experience many. In addition to low mood, several persistent symptoms are required for a diagnosis of major depression, but people with only a few – but distressing – symptoms may benefit from treatment of their “sub-syndromal” depression. The severity and frequency of symptoms and how long they last will vary depending on the individual and their particular illness. Symptoms may also vary depending on the stage of the depression.
Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the U.S. Current research suggests that depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
Depression can happen at any age but often begins in adulthood. Depression is now recognized as occurring in children and adolescents, although it sometimes presents more prominent irritability than low mood. Many chronic mood and anxiety disorders in adults begin as high anxiety levels in children.
Depression, especially in middle-aged or older adults, can co-occur with other serious medical illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and Parkinson’s. These conditions are often worse when depression is present. Sometimes medications for these physical illnesses may cause side effects contributing to depression. A doctor experienced in treating these complicated illnesses can help work out the best treatment strategy.
Risk factors include:
Here are other tips that may help you or a loved one during treatment for depression:
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