I think I would be labeled treatment resistant at this point.

I can't take anti-depressants because of bad side effects. I am now even having bad side effects from supplements. For instance, I think using valerian for insomnia increases my depression so I have stopped taking it.

Therapy didn't work. I ended up hating the counselor because nothing she suggested helped. I parted ways on a positive note and thanked her. She wasn't a bad person but she was ineffectual in my case. I don't have any inclination to try someone new. I'm done with therapy.

I wouldn't try ECT because of the side effects.

I feel doomed. I've changed my diet to mostly vegetarian, I don't drink alcohol or do any drugs. The only medication I take is for thyroid. I have a shelf full of self-help books and workbooks.

I have had depression in the past and usually it lifts no matter what. So I have gritted my teeth and waited it out. But this is a protracted depressive episode.

I am kind of angry all the doctors I consulted in the past few years did not offer much in the way of relief. I feel kind of trapped.

If you are or have been treatment resistant I would like to hear how you have handled it.

I have a spiritual practice. I exercise. I keep a journal. I practice CBT. But at the moment I feel like I have incurable cancer. Nothing I do really puts a dent in the depression