Therapy-resistant depression

Abstract

Therapy-resistant depression is not untreatable. Numerous treatment methods with substantiated effectiveness exist. However, none of them are able to ensure remission. Thus, what matters when treating therapy-resistant depression is the strict, step-by-step deployment of existing therapeutic options at the right tempo and with a regular systematic evaluation of patient response. Remission should always be the aim, not just some abatement in symptoms (response). The following should be avoided: too small dosages of medication; changing the therapeutic strategy too frequently or too quickly; thoughtlessly sticking to an ineffective treatment over too long a period of time; or unsystematic poly-pharmacy. If these are all avoided than therapy-resistant depressive patients will have a good chance of recovery.