How are mood disorders treated at RCBM?
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This structured and goal-oriented psychotherapy is used by mental health professionals to treat or manage mental health conditions and emotional concerns. CBT combines behavioral exposure therapy and cognitive restructuring to help the patient confront avoidance, correct negative automatic thoughts, and return to optimal functioning.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): DBT is a form of talk therapy based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) but specifically adapted for individuals with intense emotions.
Psychodynamic therapy: This type of therapy is based on the concept that behavior and mental well-being are influenced by experiences during childhood and problematic repetitive thoughts or feelings that are outside of your awareness.
Medication management
Medications that RCBM providers may prescribe to help treat mood disorders include:
Antidepressants: The most commonly used drugs to treat depression and depressive episodes of bipolar disorder are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Similar to SSRIs in their action, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are also frequently prescribed. Although studies indicate that different types of antidepressants work equally well, some may be more effective for certain individuals. Typically, it takes four to six weeks for an antidepressant to begin working. It is crucial to take antidepressants as prescribed and continue taking them even if you start feeling better.
Mood stabilizers: Certain medications are used to regulate mood swings associated with conditions like bipolar disorder. These medications work by reducing abnormal brain activity. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe mood stabilizers alongside antidepressants. Some commonly used mood stabilizers include lithium and anticonvulsant drugs.
Antipsychotics (neuroleptics): People experiencing mania or mixed episodes in bipolar disorder may be treated with atypical antipsychotic drugs. Atypical antipsychotics are also prescribed to treat depression if symptoms aren’t controlled with an antidepressant alone..
SPRAVATO®
RCBM has a robust SPRAVATO® program. SPRAVATO® (esketamine), is manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals. This medication is used adjunctively with antidepressant medications for treatment-resistant depression. Our medical director, Dr. Joel Young, was a primary investigator during the SPRAVATO® clinical trial.
Taken along with an oral antidepressant, SPRAVATO® is the first nasal spray medication specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression.
Taken along with an oral antidepressant, SPRAVATO® is the first nasal spray medication that treats depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts or actions.
Medical Nutrition Therapy
Balanced nutrition can play a vital role in managing depression symptoms and supporting mental health. Our registered dietitians can develop a personalized nutrition plan to help with the management of depression.
