Your Guide to Treatments for Depression

Have you been diligently following a treatment plan but still feel stuck? It’s a frustrating and surprisingly common experience. When depression doesn’t respond to initial therapies, it’s known as treatment-resistant depression. This isn’t a personal failure; it’s a clinical sign that it’s time to explore a different path. Fortunately, the field of mental healthcare has made incredible progress. Advanced treatments for depression, like TMS and Spravato, offer new hope by working differently than traditional methods. If you feel like you’ve hit a wall, this is where the next chapter of your recovery can begin.

Key Takeaways

• A combined approach is often best: Think of your treatment as a toolkit, not a single tool. Lasting recovery often comes from pairing professional care, like therapy or medication, with supportive daily habits such as movement, mindful eating, and quality sleep.
• Don’t lose hope if initial treatments fall short: It’s common for depression not to respond to the first or second try. This is when advanced options like TMS, Spravato, and IV Ketamine become powerful tools, offering new, evidence-based paths to relief when you feel stuck.
• You are your own best advocate: Your treatment plan should be a partnership, not a prescription. Feel empowered to share honest feedback with your provider, ask for adjustments, and get a second opinion to ensure your care plan truly fits your needs.

What Is Depression, and Why Is Treatment So Important?

It’s easy to mistake depression for a prolonged bad mood or a rough patch you just have to push through. But it’s so much more than that. Depression is a serious medical condition with powerful symptoms that can change how you feel, think, and manage daily activities like sleeping, eating, or working. It’s an illness, not a personal failing, and it doesn’t discriminate. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of their age, background, or life circumstances. The weight of it can feel isolating, making it seem like you’re the only one struggling to stay afloat.

Recognizing depression as a legitimate health condition is the first step toward getting better. Just as you would see a doctor for a physical ailment, seeking help for depression is a sign of strength. Treatment is not about erasing your personality or pretending problems don’t exist. Instead, it’s about giving you the tools to manage your symptoms, regain a sense of control, and find joy in your life again. There are many effective treatments for depression, and finding the right path for you can make all the difference. The journey starts with understanding what you’re facing and knowing that help is available.

How Depression Shows Up in Daily Life

Depression looks and feels different for everyone, but it often brings a consistent set of challenges. You might feel a persistent sense of sadness, anxiety, or an “empty” feeling that just won’t go away. It can also show up as irritability or restlessness, making you feel on edge for no clear reason. One of the most common signs is losing interest in the hobbies and activities you once loved; things that used to bring you joy now feel like a chore. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression can also cloud your thinking, making it hard to concentrate, remember details, or make decisions. You may also notice physical changes, like a shift in your appetite, unplanned weight gain or loss, or persistent fatigue.

Why Waiting It Out Isn’t the Answer

When you’re feeling down, it’s natural to hope that things will get better on their own. But with moderate to severe depression, waiting is rarely the best strategy. Untreated symptoms can worsen over time, impacting your relationships, career, and overall health. Getting help quickly, whether through therapy or medication, is essential for recovery. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t ignore a broken bone, and your mental health deserves the same urgent care. The good news is that depression is highly treatable. The process often involves a combination of talk therapy and medication. For those who don’t find relief with these initial methods, advanced brain stimulation therapies can be an excellent option. Finding what works for you might take some time, but it’s a worthwhile process that leads back to a fuller, healthier life.

Finding the Right Talk Therapy for You

If you’re exploring treatment for depression, talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, is one of the most effective tools available. Think of it as a dedicated space to work with a trained professional who can help you understand your feelings, develop coping strategies, and make meaningful changes. It’s a collaborative process, and finding the right approach is key, because therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Just as every person is unique, different types of therapy are designed to address different needs and goals.

Some therapies are structured and focus on building practical skills, while others are more exploratory, helping you connect the dots between your past and your present. The goal is to find a method and a therapist that you feel comfortable with. At Relief, we believe in a personalized approach to all our treatments, including therapy. Exploring your options is the first step toward finding a path that empowers you. Below are a few of the most common and evidence-based types of talk therapy used to treat depression.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is one of the most common and well-researched forms of therapy. The core idea behind CBT is that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all connected. This approach helps you identify and challenge the negative or unhelpful thought patterns that can contribute to depression and anxiety. Your therapist will work with you to develop practical skills for reframing these thoughts and changing your behavioral responses. It’s a very active and goal-oriented therapy. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, CBT is a proven method for treating depression by helping you break out of difficult mental cycles.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

If you feel like your depression is closely tied to your relationships, Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) might be a great fit. This approach focuses specifically on your social connections and how they impact your mental health. Whether you’re dealing with conflict with a loved one, grieving a loss, or going through a major life transition like a move or a new job, IPT can help. Your therapist will guide you in improving your communication skills and addressing the interpersonal issues that may be causing or worsening your depression. The goal is to strengthen your support system and improve your ability to relate to others in a healthier way.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is now widely used for a variety of conditions, including depression accompanied by intense emotions. DBT is a type of CBT that balances acceptance with change. It teaches you practical skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. This therapy is especially helpful if you struggle with overwhelming feelings or self-destructive behaviors. The American Psychological Association recognizes DBT as an effective depression treatment for adults, helping people manage their emotions and build a life they feel is worth living.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines the tools of CBT with mindfulness practices like meditation and breathing exercises. Instead of trying to change your negative thoughts, MBCT teaches you to change your relationship with them. You’ll learn to observe your thoughts and feelings from a distance without judging them or getting swept away by them. This increased awareness helps you recognize the early warning signs of a depressive spiral and respond in a more conscious, helpful way. It’s particularly effective for people who have experienced recurrent episodes of depression, as it provides skills to help prevent a relapse.

Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy is what many people imagine when they think of traditional therapy. This approach focuses on exploring how your past experiences, especially those from early in life, may be shaping your current feelings and behaviors. It’s a process of self-reflection where you and your therapist work to uncover the unconscious roots of your emotional suffering. By gaining insight into these deep-seated patterns, you can begin to understand yourself more fully and resolve long-standing conflicts. This form of therapy can lead to lasting change by addressing the core issues underlying your depression.

What to Know About Depression Medication

For many people, medication is a key part of an effective depression treatment plan, often working best when combined with talk therapy. Think of it as a tool that can help rebalance your brain chemistry, making it easier for you to engage with therapy and make positive lifestyle changes. The world of antidepressants can seem complex, but a qualified healthcare provider can help you find the right fit.

The goal of psychiatry is to find a medication that reduces your symptoms with the fewest possible side effects. This process is a partnership between you and your provider. It requires open communication and a little patience, as it can sometimes take a few tries to find what works best for your unique biology. There are several different classes of antidepressants, and your doctor will consider your specific symptoms, health history, and other medications when making a recommendation. Remember, starting medication is a hopeful step toward feeling better, and you’ll have support every step of the way.

SSRIs: What They Are and How They Help

If you and your provider decide to explore medication, you’ll likely start with a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. They are often the first-line prescription medications for depression because they are generally effective and have a manageable side effect profile for most people.

SSRIs work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a natural chemical in your brain that plays a big role in your mood. By preventing your brain cells from quickly absorbing serotonin, more of it is available to help transmit messages between cells. This can lead to a better, more stable mood and a reduction in depressive symptoms over time.

SNRIs: Another Effective Option

If SSRIs aren’t the right match for you, don’t worry. That’s common, and there are other great options available. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are another class of antidepressants that many people find helpful. As the name suggests, they work similarly to SSRIs but have an extra function.

While SSRIs focus only on serotonin, SNRIs increase the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Norepinephrine is another neurotransmitter that affects alertness, energy, and concentration. For some people, targeting both of these brain chemicals can be more effective at treating the full range of depression symptoms, especially if you struggle with low energy or trouble focusing.

Atypical Antidepressants and Tricyclics

Beyond SSRIs and SNRIs, there are other medications that work in unique ways. Atypical antidepressants are a group of drugs that don’t fit neatly into other categories. Medications like bupropion and mirtazapine fall into this class, and they are often prescribed when other antidepressants haven’t been effective or have caused unwanted side effects.

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are an older class of medication. While they can be very effective for depression, they are not typically a first choice anymore because they tend to have more significant side effects than newer drugs. However, they remain a valuable option in certain situations, especially when other treatments have failed.

MAOIs: When Are They Prescribed?

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are another one of the earliest types of antidepressants. They are prescribed much less frequently these days, but they can be a powerful option for people who haven’t found relief with other medications. MAOIs work by preventing an enzyme called monoamine oxidase from removing the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine from the brain.

The main reason MAOIs aren’t a first-line treatment is that they require strict dietary restrictions. People taking them must avoid certain foods containing tyramine, like aged cheeses and cured meats, to prevent dangerously high blood pressure. They can also have serious interactions with other medications. Because of this, they are typically reserved for specific cases under close medical supervision.

How Long Does It Take for Antidepressants to Work?

Starting an antidepressant requires patience, which can be tough when you’re eager to feel better. It’s important to know that these medications don’t work overnight. While some people might notice small improvements in a week or two, it generally takes four to eight weeks to feel the full therapeutic effects.

During this time, your body is adjusting to the medication as it gradually builds up in your system. It’s also normal to try a few different medications or dosages before finding the perfect fit. Try to see this initial period as an investment in your long-term wellbeing. Keep in close contact with your provider to track your progress and discuss how you’re feeling along the way.

How to Manage Side Effects and Withdrawal

Like any medication, antidepressants can have side effects. Some common ones include nausea, headaches, and changes in sleep or appetite. For many people, these are mild and tend to fade as their body adjusts to the medication. It’s so important to talk to your provider about any side effects you experience. They can often help you manage them or may suggest trying a different medication that’s a better fit for you.

Never stop taking an antidepressant abruptly. Suddenly stopping can lead to withdrawal-like symptoms, such as dizziness, fatigue, and irritability. Your provider can create a plan to slowly and safely taper your dosage. This gradual reduction helps your body adjust and allows you to manage withdrawal symptoms effectively.

What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

If you’ve been diligently following a treatment plan for depression but still feel stuck, you’re not alone, and it’s not your fault. Sometimes, depression doesn’t respond to initial therapies, leading to a diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This isn’t a personal failure; it’s a clinical term for major depressive disorder that hasn’t improved after trying at least two different antidepressant medications.

It’s surprisingly common. Research shows that about one-third of people with major depression find that standard treatments don’t provide enough relief. A TRD diagnosis can feel discouraging, but it’s actually a crucial step toward finding what does work. It simply means it’s time to explore a different path to feeling better, one that often includes more advanced and targeted therapies.

When Is Depression Considered “Treatment-Resistant”?

So, what’s the specific point when depression gets this label? A doctor will typically consider a diagnosis of TRD after you’ve tried at least two different antidepressant medications from different classes without a satisfactory response. This isn’t just about taking a pill for a week or two. A key part of the diagnosis is ensuring you’ve taken each medication at an adequate dose and for an adequate duration, usually for at least six weeks, to give it a fair chance to work. If you’ve gone through this process with multiple medications and your symptoms haven’t significantly improved, your provider may determine you have treatment-resistant depression.

Are Advanced Treatments Right for You?

If traditional talk therapy and medication haven’t brought the relief you need, it might be time to consider advanced options. These aren’t last resorts; they are powerful, evidence-based tools specifically for people experiencing TRD. Innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato (esketamine), and IV Ketamine infusions work differently than standard antidepressants and can often provide relief more quickly. These therapies are designed to create new pathways in the brain, helping to lift the weight of persistent depression. If you feel like you’ve hit a wall with your current treatment, discussing these advanced options with a mental health professional is a proactive and hopeful next step.

Exploring Advanced Depression Treatments

When you’ve tried different therapies and medications without seeing the results you hoped for, it’s easy to feel discouraged. But please know, this doesn’t mean you’re out of options. It simply means it’s time to look at a different set of tools. Advanced treatments are designed specifically for situations like this, offering new hope for people with treatment-resistant depression.

These aren’t experimental ideas; they are safe, evidence-based therapies that work differently from traditional antidepressants or talk therapy. They target the brain’s neural pathways in unique ways, often providing relief when other methods have fallen short. Think of them as the next step in a personalized care plan, not a last resort. The field of mental health is constantly evolving, and these innovative treatments represent some of the most exciting progress we’ve seen in recent years. If you feel like you’ve hit a wall in your recovery, exploring these options with a qualified provider could be the key to finally feeling better.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, sounds complex, but the idea is quite simple. It’s a non-invasive treatment that uses gentle magnetic pulses, much like those in an MRI, to stimulate nerve cells in the areas of the brain that regulate mood. It’s considered one of the safest and most effective treatments for depression that hasn’t responded to other methods. Studies show that standard TMS therapy helps about half of patients feel significantly better, with roughly 30% achieving remission. Newer, more accelerated forms of TMS have shown even higher success rates. The treatment requires no anesthesia, and you can return to your daily activities immediately after a session.

Spravato (Esketamine)

If you have treatment-resistant depression, Spravato could be a promising option. Spravato is an FDA-approved prescription nasal spray that contains esketamine, a medicine that works differently from traditional oral antidepressants. Because it’s administered as a simple spray, it doesn’t require an IV. It’s a safe and effective medication for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts. At Relief Mental Health, we offer Spravato as part of a complete care plan, and since it’s FDA-approved, it is typically covered by insurance. You’ll take the spray in a comfortable, supervised setting at our clinic, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the process.

IV Ketamine Infusions

For those needing rapid relief from severe depression symptoms, IV Ketamine infusions can be a game-changer. Ketamine is an anesthetic medicine that, when administered in low doses in a clinical setting, can produce a quick and powerful antidepressant effect, sometimes within hours or days. Research shows that about 60% of people feel better for a few days after just one treatment, and for many, the effects become more durable with a series of infusions. These IV Ketamine infusions are administered by a medical team in a calm, controlled environment to ensure your experience is both safe and therapeutic, offering a fast-acting alternative when you need it most.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is another highly effective treatment for severe or treatment-resistant depression. While it has been around for a while, the modern procedure is very different from what you might have seen in movies. Today, ECT is a safe procedure performed while a patient is asleep under general anesthesia. A small, controlled electric current is passed through the brain, causing a brief, therapeutic seizure that can help reset brain chemistry. About 80% of patients who undergo Electroconvulsive Therapy respond positively, and around 65% experience a significant reduction in symptoms after about four weeks. It’s often recommended when a rapid response is needed or when other treatments have been unsuccessful.

Lifestyle Changes That Support Your Treatment

While professional treatments like therapy and medication are the foundation of your recovery, the small choices you make every day can make a huge difference. Think of these lifestyle adjustments as powerful allies that work alongside your treatment plan. They help create a stable environment for your mind and body, making your professional treatment even more effective. Integrating these habits won’t replace the need for expert care, but they can certainly support your progress and improve your overall well-being. Let’s look at a few key areas where simple changes can have a big impact.

The Power of Movement

When you’re feeling down, exercise might be the last thing on your mind, but even gentle physical activity can have a profound effect on your mood. Movement helps release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can reduce feelings of anxiety. You don’t need to run a marathon to feel the benefits. The key is to find an activity you genuinely enjoy, whether it’s a daily walk in your neighborhood, a dance class, or some light stretching at home. Starting small makes it easier to build a consistent routine. The goal is to make physical activity a regular, supportive part of your life, not another source of pressure.

How Food Affects Your Mood

The connection between what you eat and how you feel is stronger than you might think. A balanced diet can play a supportive role in managing depression symptoms. For example, diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, like the Mediterranean diet, have been linked to better mental health. On the other hand, foods high in sugar, processed fats, and salt can contribute to inflammation and negatively affect your mood. You don’t have to overhaul your entire diet overnight. Start by incorporating more whole foods into your meals and notice how you feel. Making mindful food choices is a simple yet effective way to care for your brain.

The Importance of Quality Sleep

Sleep and mental health are deeply intertwined. Depression can disrupt sleep patterns, and poor sleep can make depression symptoms worse, creating a difficult cycle. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene is a critical step in supporting your treatment. Try to establish a consistent routine by going to bed and waking up around the same time each day, even on weekends. Creating a relaxing pre-sleep ritual, like reading a book or taking a warm bath, can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. It also helps to get some natural sunlight during the day and avoid alcohol or heavy meals right before bed. These small adjustments can significantly improve your sleep quality and, in turn, your mood.

Simple Ways to Reduce Stress

Chronic stress can take a toll on your mental health and make it harder to manage depression. Learning simple ways to reduce stress can help you feel more in control. Mindfulness is a powerful practice that involves focusing your attention on the present moment without judgment. This can help quiet the cycle of worry and negative thoughts that often comes with depression. You can practice mindfulness through guided meditation, deep breathing exercises, or even by simply paying full attention to a daily activity like drinking your morning coffee. These stress-reduction techniques can lower your overall stress levels and may even reduce the chances of depression returning.

Building Your Support System

Navigating depression can feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone. A strong support system is essential for recovery. This includes friends, family, and understanding loved ones who can offer patience and encouragement. It’s also important to have professional support. Connecting with a therapist or psychiatrist gives you a safe space to talk and a partner in creating your treatment plan. If you’re unsure where to start, remember that reaching out is a sign of strength. A mental health provider can help you understand the conditions we treat and guide you toward the best path forward. Your support network, both personal and professional, is your team.

Does Combining Treatments Lead to Better Results?

When it comes to treating depression, there’s no single magic bullet. What works wonders for one person might not be the right fit for another. That’s why a one-size-fits-all approach often falls short. Instead, many people find the most success by combining different strategies. Think of it less like a simple prescription and more like building a personalized toolkit for your mental health. This approach allows you and your care team to create a flexible, comprehensive plan that addresses your specific symptoms, history, and goals. By layering different types of support, you can tackle depression from multiple angles, leading to more sustainable and meaningful results.

Why a Combined Approach Is Often Best

You don’t always have to choose between therapy and medication. In fact, research shows that for many people, especially those with more severe depression, combining psychotherapy with medication can be the most effective path forward. Therapy gives you the tools to understand your thoughts, develop coping skills, and change behavioral patterns, while medication can help regulate the brain chemistry that influences your mood. This two-pronged approach creates a powerful synergy where each treatment supports the other.

That said, therapy can also be just as effective as medication on its own for some individuals. The best strategy always starts with a thorough assessment from a mental health professional. They can help you understand your options and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include talk therapy, medication, advanced treatments like TMS, or lifestyle adjustments. The goal is to find the unique combination that helps you feel your best.

Creating a Plan That Fits Your Needs

Finding the right treatment combination can take time, and it’s completely normal to try a few different things before landing on what works for you. Be patient and gentle with yourself during this process. Your mental health provider will act as your partner, guiding you through the various treatment options available.

When creating your plan, your provider will consider several factors. They’ll look at what treatments you’ve tried in the past, any other health conditions you have, the potential side effects of medications, and what is most accessible for you. This collaborative process ensures your treatment plan is tailored to your life and your needs. Open communication is key, so don’t hesitate to share your preferences and concerns.

How to Track Your Progress and Adjust Your Plan

A good treatment plan is not set in stone. It’s a living document that should evolve as you do. Regularly checking in on your progress is a crucial part of the process. Many providers use a method called measurement-based care, which sounds technical but is actually quite simple. It just means using consistent tools, like symptom questionnaires, to track how you’re feeling over time. This gives you and your provider objective information to see what’s working and what might need to be adjusted.

Your personal feedback is the most important part of this process. How are you feeling day to day? Are you noticing any changes, positive or negative? Sharing this information helps your provider make informed decisions about your care. Finding the right treatment is a journey of partnership, and your voice is essential in guiding the way. If a certain therapy isn’t clicking or a medication is causing difficult side effects, speak up. Your plan can always be modified to better support you.

How to Find the Right Depression Treatment for You

Finding the path to feeling better is a personal process, and it starts with understanding your options and advocating for your needs. There isn’t a single “best” treatment for depression, only the one that is best for you. Taking an active role in this process is the most important step you can take toward recovery. It’s about finding a plan and a provider that makes you feel seen, heard, and hopeful.

Why a Thorough Assessment Is the First Step

The most effective treatment plans don’t come from a quick questionnaire. They begin with a thorough, comprehensive assessment where a provider takes the time to truly understand you. This initial meeting should cover your specific symptoms, your personal and family history, your lifestyle, and what you’ve already tried. This isn’t just a formality; it’s the foundation for creating a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs. This is especially true for complex mood disorders that show up differently for everyone. A successful approach is never one-size-fits-all, so this first step ensures your care is tailored to you from the very beginning.

When to Get a Second Opinion

It is always okay to get a second opinion. If you feel like your current treatment isn’t working, your concerns are being dismissed, or you simply want to know what else is out there, seeking another perspective is a sign of strength. You are your own best advocate. This is especially important if you’ve tried several treatments without seeing the improvement you hoped for. If other approaches haven’t been effective, a second opinion can help you explore advanced treatments like TMS or Spravato that your current provider may not offer. It’s about gathering all the information you can to make the most informed decision for your health.

Finding Personalized Care That Feels Right

Your relationship with your mental health provider matters. You should feel like an active partner in your treatment, not just a passive recipient. Your feedback is one of the most valuable tools in this process. Does the medication have side effects that are hard to manage? Do you feel like your therapy sessions are making a difference? It’s crucial to share this information openly and honestly. A great provider will listen to your experiences and use your feedback to adjust your plan accordingly. This collaborative approach is the core of effective, patient-centered care. Finding a team that values your input ensures your treatment plan continues to serve you as your needs evolve.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve tried therapy and medication before without much luck. Am I out of options? Not at all. It’s very common for people to try a few different treatments before finding what works, and it is not a personal failure if initial methods don’t provide relief. This is often a sign that it’s time to explore more advanced, targeted therapies. Treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato, and IV Ketamine are designed specifically for situations like this. They work differently than traditional antidepressants and can be very effective for people with treatment-resistant depression.

How long will it take for my depression treatment to start working? This is a really common question, and the answer depends on the treatment. With antidepressants, it generally takes four to eight weeks to feel the full benefits, though you might notice small improvements sooner. Talk therapy is a more gradual process where progress builds over time as you learn and apply new skills. The most important thing is to be patient with yourself and stay in close contact with your provider. Finding the right approach is a process, but it’s a worthwhile one.

Do I have to choose between talk therapy and medication? You don’t have to choose, and in many cases, you shouldn’t. For many people, especially those with moderate to severe depression, combining medication with talk therapy is the most effective strategy. Think of it this way: medication can help rebalance your brain chemistry to lift your mood, which makes it easier to engage with and benefit from the practical skills you learn in therapy. Your provider can help you decide on the best approach for your specific needs.

What’s the first step I should take if I think I have depression? The best first step is to schedule a thorough assessment with a qualified mental health professional. This initial meeting is much more than just a chat; it’s a deep look into your symptoms, your health history, and your personal goals. This allows a provider to get a complete picture of what’s going on so they can recommend a truly personalized treatment plan. Reaching out for this kind of evaluation is a proactive and powerful move toward feeling better.

Are advanced treatments like TMS and Spravato safe? Yes, they are. While they might sound intimidating, these are well-researched, evidence-based treatments. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses gentle magnetic pulses, and you can go right back to your day after a session. Spravato is an FDA-approved nasal spray that is always administered in a safe, supervised clinical setting. These therapies are considered powerful tools for treatment-resistant depression precisely because they have been proven to be both safe and effective.