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Depression

How Common is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
man smiling after asking how common is treatment-resistant depression

How common is treatment-resistant depression? Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a prevalent condition, affecting approximately 30% of individuals with major depressive disorder (NCBI). Despite multiple treatment attempts, including medication and therapy, these individuals do not achieve sufficient relief from their symptoms. Understanding TRD’s prevalence underscores the need for alternative treatments, such as ketamine therapy, to address this significant mental health challenge. Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a significant concern, affecting approximately 30% of individuals with major depressive disorder. Despite multiple treatment attempts, this prevalence highlights the challenge many face in finding effective relief from their symptoms. Addressing TRD’s impact is crucial for developing alternative therapies, such as ketamine, that offer hope for better outcomes. This article explores a common question we hear from patients interested in solutions for treatment-resistant depression: “How common is treatment-resistant depression?” What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression? Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a form of major depressive disorder that does not …

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Self-Harm Awareness Month 2024

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self-harm

By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   What is Self-Harm Awareness Month? Self-Harm Awareness Month spans the month of March with the purpose of spreading awareness, breaking the stigma, and providing support and hope to those who have or currently self-harm. Self-Harm Awareness month is observed in the United States, Canada, and parts of Western Europe.  What is self-harm? Self-harm is also known as nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). Self-harm describes the act of purposely harming oneself; this act is often done by burning, cutting, pulling out hair, or picking at wounds to prevent healing. Self-harm indicates emotional distress and can lead to injury as severe as broken bones (NAMI, 2021).  Self-harm urges a need for healthier coping skills for emotional distress, and though it isn’t a mental illness in and of itself, self-harm is often associated with mental illness such as depression, trauma-related disorders, and borderline personality disorder (NAMI, 2021). It is also …

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What is High-functioning Depression?

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
business woman wondering what is high-functioning depression

What is high-functioning depression? High-functioning depression, clinically known as dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder, is a form of depression where individuals can maintain their daily responsibilities and outward appearances of normalcy despite experiencing chronic symptoms of depression. These symptoms include low mood, fatigue, and a general lack of interest, which persist over a long period but may not severely disrupt daily functioning. Many people with high-functioning depression struggle silently, as their ability to keep up with daily tasks masks the severity of their emotional pain. This often leads to their struggles being overlooked or minimized by themselves and others, making it difficult to recognize the need for help. Understanding high-functioning depression requires acknowledging that someone can appear productive and engaged while internally battling significant emotional distress, emphasizing the importance of compassionate support and professional depression treatment. What Is High-Functioning Depression? High-functioning depression, also known as dysthymia, presents a unique challenge …

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How to Reduce Anxiety and Depression

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
man calmly walking to work after learning How to Reduce Anxiety and Depression

Reducing anxiety and depression involves adopting a holistic approach, focusing on both mind and body. Strategies include regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness or meditation. Social support is crucial, so building strong relationships and seeking professional help when needed is essential. Incorporating these habits can significantly lessen symptoms and improve overall well-being. Anxiety and depression significantly impact individuals’ daily lives, affecting their ability to work, maintain relationships, and enjoy life. Without addressing these mental health issues, symptoms can worsen over time, requiring anxiety treatment and depression treatment. Implementing regular exercise, practicing mindfulness techniques, seeking social support, and consulting mental health professionals can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This article explores how to reduce anxiety and depression. How to Reduce Anxiety and Depression The 2022 National Health Interview Survey results show that 12.5% of Americans over 18 experience excessive nervousness, worry, and anxiety. Also, 5% …

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Failure to Launch and Depression

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self-harm

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. What is “Failure to Launch”? Yes, Failure to Launch is a 2006 Romantic Comedy starring Matthew McConaughey. It is also a growing phenomenon of young adults struggling to make the transition to adulthood. In many Western countries, young adults are expected to “leave the nest” and become independent from their family of origin. In Japan, hikikomori describes how some people withdraw from society and isolate, often starting in their 20s. This growing phenomenon spans across many cultures and many people wonder what contributes to this occurrence.  According to Scientific American, “the defining feature of failure to launch is foot dragging, delaying, stalling, or flat-out refusal to participate in life…in 2014, over seven million American men ages 25-54 were neither working nor looking for work, up 25% from 10 years prior” (2019).  How to recognize “Failure to Launch.” The following are some signs that someone may be …

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