Depression is a common and serious mental health issue. It affects millions of people around the world and impacts daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Fortunately, depression is highly treatable with evidence-based approaches that may include medication and therapy.
While some individuals find relief with a single treatment approach, research suggests that for many, combining therapy with medication can lead to better results. This is especially true for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression.
One innovative treatment that is changing the landscape of depression care is Spravato (esketamine). As the only FDA-approved nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, Spravato offers new hope for those who have not responded to traditional antidepressants. When used in conjunction with therapy, it provides a proven pathway to mental health recovery.
The Role of Spravato in Treating Depression
Spravato is a cutting-edge option for individuals who have not achieved relief with traditional antidepressants. Unlike oral medications such as SSRIs and SNRIs, Spravato targets different receptors in the brain, providing rapid symptom relief.
Spravato works differently from traditional antidepressants. It affects the brain’s glutamate system, which plays a critical role in mood regulation. By targeting these pathways, Spravato can offer relief within hours or days, compared to the weeks or months required for traditional medications to take effect.
This rapid-acting treatment is particularly helpful for individuals with severe depression who have not found success with other medications. Spravato is administered in a controlled clinical setting to monitor for potential side effects and ensure patient safety.
Through the use of a personalized treatment plan, a psychiatrist can adjust the dose of medication as needed. This helps ensure the best outcome while watching for possible side effects.
Spravato as a Monotherapy: Is It Effective Alone?
While Spravato provides significant relief for many individuals, its effectiveness may increase when combined with therapy. Therapy helps solidify the benefits of Spravato by equipping patients with tools to manage stress, negative thoughts, and life challenges.
That being said, Spravato is an approved monotherapy for depression. For those who cannot engage in therapy for various reasons, Spravato can still provide valuable and effective treatment on its own.
If you’re wondering about your coverage options, click here to learn if Spravato is covered by insurance.
The Role of Therapy in Treating Depression
Therapy is a crucial part of treating depression. It helps by addressing the emotional and thinking patterns that cause depressive symptoms.
Unlike medication, which primarily targets brain chemistry, therapy focuses on changing negative thought processes, improving emotional regulation, and developing healthier coping mechanisms.
One common method is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which helps people find and change negative thoughts that worsen depression.
Additionally, talk therapy allows individuals to explore their experiences, unresolved trauma, and deep-seated emotional challenges, fostering personal growth and self-awareness.
By going to therapy, people gain helpful tools to manage their depression. They can build resilience and make lasting changes that support their long-term mental health.
Why Combining Therapy with Spravato is More Effective
When used together, therapy and Spravato create a powerful, holistic approach to treating depression.
Spravato provides rapid symptom relief, helping individuals feel better faster, while therapy equips individuals with coping strategies and long-term emotional resilience.
This combination addresses both the biological and psychological aspects of depression, arming patients with the necessary care they need to overcome depression.
Benefits of a Combined Approach
Combining therapy with Spravato offers several key benefits, making it one of the most effective approaches for treating depression:
- Faster symptom relief and better emotional resilience
- Improved daily functioning and overall quality of life
- Lower relapse rates compared to medication or therapy alone
- Neither requires the use of oral antidepressants
Who Can Benefit from Combination Therapy?
Individuals with moderate to severe depression, especially those with treatment-resistant depression, are excellent candidates for a combined approach using Spravato and therapy. This treatment plan provides both immediate relief and long-term stability, offering a well-rounded solution for managing depression.
Indiana Advanced Psychiatry is Here to Help You
Seeking professional help is essential for finding the right treatment plan for your unique needs. At Indiana Advanced Psychiatry, we focus on providing personalized and reliable treatment options to the Fort Wayne community.
Contact us today by giving us a call at (260)-888-1378 to take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life.
If you are in the Troy or Ann Arbor, MI areas, please visit our partner website to explore treatment options near you.