Treating Depression - Part 2 of 2

Here’s a comparison of the main treatments for clinical depression — focusing on medications, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments like ECT and TMS — across several key factors:

✅ Effectiveness

Treatment Type	Effectiveness (General)	Notes
SSRIs/SNRIs (meds)	High for moderate to severe depression	Often first-line treatment
CBT/IPT (therapy)	High for mild to moderate; effective when combined with meds	Long-lasting effects if continued
ECT	Very high, especially for severe or suicidal depression	Fast-acting; often used when others fail
TMS	Moderate to high, especially in treatment-resistant cases	Non-invasive; fewer side effects than meds

🕒 Onset of Action

Treatment Type	Time to Noticeable Improvement
Medications	2–6 weeks
Therapy	4–8 weeks
ECT	1–2 weeks (often faster)
TMS	2–4 weeks

⚠️ Side Effects / Risks

Treatment Type	Common Issues
Medications	GI upset, sexual dysfunction, sleep issues
Therapy	Minimal (may cause emotional discomfort at first)
ECT	Memory loss (short-term), anesthesia risks
TMS	Headache, scalp discomfort

💡 Best Use Cases

Treatment Type	Ideal For...
Medications	Moderate to severe depression, when therapy alone isn’t enough
Therapy	Mild to moderate depression, or with meds for severe cases
ECT	Severe, psychotic, or suicidal depression; treatment-resistant
TMS	Non-responsive to meds, prefers non-drug options

🔁 Relapse Prevention

Treatment Type	Long-Term Benefit
Medications	Effective but relapse common if stopped too early
Therapy	Strong relapse prevention, especially CBT
ECT	May require maintenance treatments
TMS	Some need maintenance, but fewer long-term studies available

Summary:

• For moderate to severe depression, medications + therapy is often the best combo.

• For treatment-resistant or very severe depression, ECT or TMS can be life-saving.

• Therapy alone works well for mild to moderate cases or when someone can’t tolerate medication.

• For more information about Suboxone and Depression, please contact us 443-559-8354