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Iris29

Updated 1y ago

Alternative treatments for long-term depression?

Hi, I suffer from long term Depression (25+ years) and I have not had success with medicines. I have been doing therapy for a few months but I don't feel it is helping either. Does anyone have info about alternative treatments that have worked for them? And should I continue therapy?

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Amarantha

2y

Finding a different therapist can help. Bring this concern up with your current one as well. I've had my fair share of therapists that don't really seem to click/work. I found before my accident exercise was my gold. I pushed carts at Walmart for 8 hours a day walking 13+ miles. I felt amazing I even was able to stop taking my antidepressants. Finding an activity can end up being the best even if it's forced exercise :>
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kathylou

2y

Be careful with substituting exercise for meds. Exercise is essential but unlike the previous post I tried cutting down on meds and wound up back in deeper depression. From what I've learned it's exercise, which because I have difficulty leaving my house is hard, diet, meds, and a therapist. I've been thru about 6 -8 therapists of varying schooling and have yet to find my "click". I try every 6 months to a year and give them several months. But like you I have suffered for over 30 years and have no magic bullet. I just keep trying. Maybe the next anti-D will work. Just don't give up!!! I always have hope. ❤️
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Amarantha

2y

i totally agree with not just stopping your antidepressants. I should have specified that after I started exercising regularly I felt great enough to talk to my doctor and we agreed that I could ween off of them. She made it clear though that if it got worse or came back to call for an appointment with her to get me back on the medication
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dadoen

2y

I would suggest going to a non government funded therapy, if you can afford to. Ive been going to a small buissness art therapy which was so much better than my previous government therapy.
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Iris29

2y

art therapy sounds amazing, I have never heard of it in my area. I'll look into it.
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Belugabear

2y

I do ketamine infusions for pain, but it’s also helping a lot with my anxiety and depression. It’s pricey but I think there are nasal sprays that are cheaper. It is supposed to be great if you are treatment resistant! If you have any questions about what it’s like feel free to message me!

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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