New Directions Mental Health is dedicated to supporting your mental health. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to reach out for immediate support through your local crisis services by dialing 988, contacting your local emergency services, or visiting your local emergency room. 

Depression impacts over 200 million people globally, and for decades, traditional antidepressants have been the primary treatment. Recently, a new treatment option called Spravato® has emerged as an alternative option for those with depression. Finding mental health treatment that aligns with your needs and supports your healing journey can be challenging. That’s why exploring these various treatment options is important—making informed decisions about your care is essential to fostering well-being and resilience.

At New Directions Mental Health, we offer depression treatment and Spravato® treatment services. We can help you find the best treatment option for your unique needs. Call us today at 724.374.7414 for a consultation.

What Is Spravato® Treatment Used for?

Spravato® is a new treatment designed for treatment-resistant depression, using esketamine, a derivative of ketamine. Unlike traditional antidepressants that may take weeks to exert their effects, the benefits of esketamine manifest much more rapidly, often within hours, providing crucial relief for people in acute distress.

Esketamine targets the NMDA receptor in the brain, which plays a significant role in mood regulation, facilitating faster synaptic connections. Suitable candidates for Spravato® include adults who have not responded adequately to at least two prior antidepressant medications, particularly those experiencing severe depressive episodes or suicidal ideation. This innovative approach offers hope to many who have struggled with traditional treatments, emphasizing the importance of personalized care in mental health management.

An Overview of Traditional Antidepressant Classes

Traditional antidepressants are divided into different types, each working in unique ways to change the levels of chemicals in the brain. One of the most commonly prescribed types is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These help increase the amount of serotonin, a chemical that helps improve mood, in the spaces between nerve cells. It can take a few weeks for SSRIs to really start working.

Another type is serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which work similarly but also affect another chemical called norepinephrine. This can help people with more complicated symptoms feel better. Other types include tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These can affect more brain chemicals but often come with more noticeable side effects.

Common side effects can include weight gain, problems with sexual function, and stomach issues, which can make it harder to use these medications for a long time. It’s important for clients to talk openly with their doctors about these side effects as they work on their mental health.

Benefits of Esketamine

Esketamine offers a range of benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for people with treatment-resistant depression. Some significant benefits of esketamine may include:

• Rapid relief – Effects may be felt within hours, providing immediate support during crises.
• Fewer side effects – Compared to some traditional antidepressants, esketamine can have a different side effect profile, which can be more tolerable for certain individuals.
• Innovative mechanism of action – Targeting the NMDA receptor helps restore synaptic function and mood regulation.
• Enhanced response rates – Many clients who did not find relief with standard antidepressants experience improvements with esketamine.
• Facilitated personalized care – This treatment enables healthcare providers to customize mental health strategies, ensuring they more effectively address the unique needs of patients.

These advantages highlight the transformative potential of esketamine in modern mental health treatment, reinforcing the significance of exploring all available options in collaboration with healthcare professionals.

Making an Informed Decision: Spravato® vs. Antidepressants

When choosing between Spravato® and traditional antidepressants, it’s crucial to evaluate several factors related to your health conditions and treatment goals.

Personal health history is crucial. Those who have tried multiple antidepressants with limited success may find Spravato® a better option due to its rapid effects and unique mechanism of action. Additionally, understanding your treatment goals—whether seeking immediate relief from severe depression or long-term symptom management—is essential.

Engaging in open and candid discussions with New Directions Mental Health professionals will provide valuable insights tailored to your needs. This will ensure that the chosen course of action aligns with your mental health journey. Together, you can explore the potential benefits and risks, leading to a more informed and empowering decision-making process.

Contact New Directions Mental Health to Schedule an Appointment About Spravato® Treatment

When it comes to finding suitable treatment for your mental health needs, New Directions Mental Health is here to support you. Our team of professionals offers comprehensive mental health services tailored to your unique needs, including Spravato® treatment. We understand that navigating the world of mental health treatment can be overwhelming, and we are dedicated to providing a supportive and informed environment for our clients.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.