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The Best Alternative Treatments for Depression

March 29, 2023
person looking out of a window with their hands folded in thought
March 29, 2023

Millions of people around the world are affected by depression every year. This serious mental health condition can be debilitating, causing difficulties with work, relationships, and daily activities.
While conventional treatments, including medication and counseling, may help to manage the condition, alternative treatments for depression can be beneficial and provide symptom relief.

What is an Alternative Treatment?

Alternative therapies are treatments that use a different approach than conventional medical practices. They have become increasingly popular recently as people seek new and efficient ways to improve their mental health.
Even though many traditional medical treatments can provide significant relief from ailments, alternative therapies may offer an additional layer of healing by targeting the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of a person’s well-being.

Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine is a powerful anesthetic with a variety of possible therapeutic benefits. The FDA initially approved it in the 1960s, and it has recently been designated as a “breakthrough therapy” for depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Ketamine works on several levels, including stimulating Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) for enhanced neuroplasticity and acting as an NMDA receptor antagonist to interact with glutamate receptors in the brain.
Researchers have found that using ketamine can result in increased synaptic connections and growth of neurons that lead to improved cognition and alleviated symptoms of depression.
In addition to being used for mental health issues such as major depression or post-traumatic stress disorder, ketamine therapy is also increasingly being used off-label for other neurological conditions such as stroke rehabilitation, bipolar disorder, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Benefits have included reduced dependence on medications, improved dopamine levels, and reduced inflammation in specific brain parts.

SPROVATO® Treatment

SPRAVATO® , also called Esketamine, is an FDA-approved nasal spray that can treat depression as well as suicidal ideation or behavior in people with treatment resistent depression.
While SPRAVATO® is considered an alternative treatment for depression, it has become more mainstream since being FDA cleared and covered by most insurance plans.
During the Spravato treatment process, which lasts approximately two hours, patients self-administer the nasal spray under the supervision of mental health professionals and then rest comfortably while vital signs are monitored.
Generally, Spravato is administered twice weekly for four weeks, followed by once weekly for another four weeks, and then transitioned into maintenance treatment which can involve administration once every other week.
As such, this form of Ketamine therapy is an effective treatment in managing clinical depression where conventional treatments have typically failed to help individuals resolve their mental health issues.

TMS Therapy (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) relieves symptoms of depression through a form of therapy that uses targeted magnetic pulses.
This therapy has been around since 1985 and has been proven to help with depressive symptoms such as sadness, lack of energy, irritability, poor concentration, and insomnia.
It is becoming increasingly popular as it is known to have fewer side effects than many other treatments for depression. While TMS is considered an alternative treatment to depression, it has become more mainstream given its FDA approval and coverage by most insurance plans.
The procedure involves passing a strong magnetic field through a purpose-built coil into an area of the brain involved in mood regulation. The magnetic field stimulates these areas, causing a brief electrical current that helps improve the negative moods associated with depression.
TMS is extremely effective in treating moderate-to-severe cases of depressive disorders and does not require sedation or anesthetic before the treatment session.
Additionally, patients will not experience any long-term side effects after undergoing TMS therapy. This makes it a much safer option for patients worried about potential risks associated with other methods of depression treatment.

How Neurospa Can Help

There are numerous alternative treatments for depression to consider if you’re struggling. At NeuroSpa, we offer all of the above treatments and more, including talk therapy, medication management, and even sleep evaluation.
Combining these new treatment options alongside counseling and conventional treatments can relieve people suffering from severe depression.
If you are suffering from depression, our team at NeuroSpa will craft a customized treatment plan that is right for you. From cutting-edge solutions like Ketamine therapy to more traditional treatments like talk therapy, we will ensure you’re getting the mental health care that you deserve.
Schedule your free consultation with our experienced professionals today to find the best treatment option.
This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

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FAQ's

I’ve already tried different treatments that didn’t work. Why should I try NeuroSpa?
NeuroSpa offers advanced, science-backed treatments like TMS and SPRAVATO that have shown success even when other treatments haven’t. These innovative therapies target areas of the brain linked to mood regulation, often providing relief for those who haven’t found success with traditional methods.
I’m worried about the cost and whether my insurance will cover treatment.
Our team can verify your insurance and help clarify your coverage options before you commit to anything. Many insurance plans cover NeuroSpa treatments, making this an accessible option for mental health care. You can verify your benefits by clicking the button below.
Is treatment time-consuming? I have a busy schedule.
Our treatments are designed with convenience in mind. For instance, TMS sessions typically last less than 20 minutes, and there’s no downtime afterward, so you can get back to your day quickly. We also offer flexible scheduling to fit into your routine.
What if I feel like my symptoms aren’t severe enough for treatment?
Mental health is important at every stage. You don’t have to wait until you’re at your lowest to seek support. If you’re experiencing any level of anxiety, depression, or mental fatigue, our therapies can help you regain balance and prevent symptoms from worsening.

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