Depresh Mode with John Moe
Your Vagus Nerve: Key to Depression Relief? / Actor-Writer Kit Williamson
Feb 10, 2025
Kit Williamson, an actor and writer known for his roles in 'Mad Men' and 'Eastsiders,' dives into mental health through his series 'Unconventional.' He discusses the struggles of living with depression and anxiety, sharing how storytelling can foster healing. Dr. Charles Conway, a psychiatry professor, reveals groundbreaking insights on vagal nerve stimulation therapy for treatment-resistant depression. They explore the science behind this treatment, personal journeys, and the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community.
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Quick takeaways
- Vagal nerve stimulation therapy shows promise in treating treatment-resistant depression by providing electrical impulses to alleviate symptoms.
- Kit Williamson's series, Unconventional, candidly addresses mental health struggles through comedy, promoting open discussions and destigmatization of these issues.
Deep dives
Understanding Treatment-Resistant Depression
Treatment-resistant depression is a significant challenge for many individuals who have not found relief through traditional therapies. When standard treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy or medications fail, patients may consider more invasive options, such as vagal nerve stimulation (VNS). This approach involves implanting a small device that sends electrical signals to the vagus nerve, which plays a role in mood regulation. Recent studies have shown that VNS can effectively improve the symptoms of depression, providing hope for those who have exhausted other treatment avenues.
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