The world of mental health treatments continues to evolve with new approaches to depression. While conventional treatments like talk therapy and SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) medication have been effective for many people, not all individuals respond in the same way.

Depression treatments aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution

Not every person with depression responds to SSRIs or tolerates its side effects. Some people may feel discouraged if they do not experience improvement after initial treatments. They may feel as though they have tried multiple treatment options without experiencing the improvement they hoped for.
But new and innovative options are on the rise, giving people more options to explore and more hope to be found. Read on for the current and new treatments for depression.

Common treatments for depression

1. DBT Therapy

DBT Therapy or Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, is about teaching practical skills to manage intense feelings of depression and other mental illnesses and help nurture relationships. With acceptance at the centre of the therapy, it focuses on mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness.

2. CBT Theraphy

CBT Therapy or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is another talk therapy that involves identifying and changing unhelpful or destructive thought patterns of depression and other mental illnesses. It focusses on the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviours, and how changing one of these can impact the others.

3. Psychiatry and Pharmacological Theraphy

Psychiatric treatment or pharmacological therapy may be used to treat depression through prescribed medication. Medication may help reduce the severity of depressive symptoms for some people and can support engagement in psychological therapies.

Medication is prescribed and monitored very carefully in order to review and balance side effects and benefits.

Additional evidence-based treatments for depression

While not everyone may be aware, there are additional evidence-based treatment options for depression that may be considered when standard treatments have not been effective or are not well tolerated.

1. TMS Therapy

TMS Therapy or (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) an evidence-based treatment for Major Depressive Disorder. It uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive areas of the brain. TMS may be considered for individuals who have not responded adequately to antidepressant medication or who are unable to tolerate medication, following assessment by a psychiatrist.

It is a non-invasive treatment where patients can stay awake the whole time, with no sedation required and no systemic side effects. Treatment involves 20 to 30 sessions over 4 to 6 weeks.

2. EMDR Therapy

EMDR Therapy or Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy, is primarily used for trauma-related conditions and may be helpful for people whose depression is linked to traumatic experiences. Using guided eye movements as part of a structured therapeutic process, EMDR aims to reduce the emotional impact of distressing memories. 

EMDR is a structured psychotherapy that can be emotionally demanding for some individuals, and suitability is assessed by a psychologist.

You are not alone

If you are feeling hopeless, there is always an ear that will listen.

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Lifeline (24/7 support): 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

This article provides general information only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are concerned about your mental health, please seek advice from a qualified health professional. If you are in crisis or feel unsafe, call 000.