Why DTD Requires A Different Counseling Approach

If you have already undergone therapy and have not seen your depression enter into remission, it makes sense to try different treatment options. Instead, you deserve a new treatment approach that will help the symptoms improve if you are suffering from DTD.

Why a New Term Was Needed

The term "treatment-resistant depression" has been replaced by the newer term "difficult-to-treat depression" (DTD). It refers to a type of depression that does not enter into remission despite adequate therapy. The new term was put in place because the word "resistant" could be misinterpreted as placing blame on the patient. 

If the type of therapy you have been receiving has been ineffective, a different form of therapy might be suggested. All treatment options are usually exhausted before you might be considered to have DTD.

DTD Vs. MMD

DTD is different than major depression (MMD). With MMD, the condition is treatable and it might simply take time to find a treatment that works for you. However, DTD sees no improvement in the symptoms of depression or the symptoms might come back after a short period.

Treatment for Difficult Depression

If a patient has not entered into full remission as a result of the treatments they have received, the focus shifts toward trying to reduce the symptoms of depression while reducing the side effects. The focus is then on alleviating the severity of the symptoms and reversing anything that can be reversed. In other words, all treatable causes will be treated, and you will work on setting realistic goals.

For example, there might be stressors in your life that have not yet been identified that should be addressed. Finding ways to overcome these stressors can help you reduce your depression symptoms and improve the quality of your life.

There might be a relationship in your life that is acting as a stressor. However, you might have not brought the relationship up in your counseling sessions because you didn't realize the impact that the relationship had on your life or you didn't feel like talking about it because it causes so much stress. Including all stressors such as these in your ongoing therapy sessions might help you achieve better results.

Speak with a Therapist Today

Even when it might seem almost impossible to overcome your DTD, there are always treatment options that may be able to lessen your symptoms and help you feel better. It's important to find a counselor in your area — such as Advance Wellness Centre — who will be able to help you with your battle with depression.