Denver, Colorado, is generally considered a progressive city, especially where access to advanced mental healthcare services is considered. Treatment options for depression can vary based on the severity of the condition and an individual’s response to different interventions. Here are some advanced treatments for depression, often considered when traditional treatments like therapy and medication have not been effective:

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s. DBT is recognized for its effectiveness in reducing self-harm behaviors, suicide attempts, and improving overall emotional and interpersonal functioning. It has been adapted for use in both individual and group therapy settings and is considered one of the most evidence-based and widely used treatments for individuals with complex emotional and behavioral challenges.

Ketamine Therapy:

Ketamine is an anesthetic drug that has shown promise in treating severe, treatment-resistant depression. It’s often administered via intravenous (IV) infusion, nasal spray, or oral forms. IV ketamine therapy, offered as part of our personalized wellness program at Ballen Medical & Wellness, is an advanced treatment for depression.

Ketamine can have rapid antidepressant effects, sometimes within hours or days, but the long-term efficacy and safety are still under study.

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy:

Psychedelics like psilocybin (found in “magic” mushrooms) and MDMA are being studied in clinical trials for their potential to treat depression and other mental health conditions.

These treatments are not yet widely available, but research suggests they may have therapeutic potential.

Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC):

While not as “advanced” as the other treatments mentioned, lifestyle changes can play a crucial role in managing depression. These include regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management, and social support.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies:

Some individuals with depression explore alternative approaches such as acupuncture, yoga, mindfulness meditation, or herbal supplements. These can be used alongside traditional treatments but should be discussed with your Ballen Medical healthcare provider.

So, What’s the Best Advanced Treatment for Depression?

Of course, the best advanced treatment is going to look different for each patient. At Ballen Medical we aim to treat depression in the most holistic way possible without over prescribing. If a patient is a candidate for any of the above treatment options and they would like to decrease or eliminate the number of antidepressants/SSRI’s they take on a daily basis, we hope to help them do so!

It’s important to note that not all of these treatments are suitable for every individual, and the decision to pursue advanced treatments should be made in consultation with a qualified mental health professional. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.