Vagal Nerve Stimulation - Placebo or Alternative Cure for Depression?

Depression knows no barriers. It can strike anyone, anywhere and anytime. While the
standard treatment for depression is medications, including depressants, selective serotonin
reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotoninnorepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), as well
as therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy and group therapy,
sometimes, a patient doesnt respond to the treatment.
Under severe mental strain, the depressed individual then takes recourse to electroconvulsive
therapy (ECT) where electric signals are sent through the brain. These help to sort out
chemical imbalances that caused the mental health condition. But under extreme
circumstances, even ECT provides no relief or only temporary respite and may result in a
relapse. Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy, primarily used in controlling epileptic
seizures, is fast proving to be a sought-after treatment for those who do not respond to the
traditional mechanisms.
Understanding VNS therapy
The premise of VNS is
simple. It works on the
vagus nerve, which is the
longest cranial nerve in the
human body passing from
the neck to the thorax and
the abdomen. This nerve
plays a crucial role in
monitoring key functions in
the human body. In case
there are variations such as
increased breathing, the
vagus nerve relays
messages to the brain
regarding how to respond.
During VNS therapy, the
care giver inserts a small gadget similar to a pacemaker below the neck which activates the
nerve.
Skepticism regarding the benefits of the therapy has remained among the medical fraternity,
though its function as a placebo has been disapproved by psychiatrist Prof. Hamish McAllister-
Williams from Newcastle University. Though he admits that not much is known about its
efficacy in cases of severe depression that remain unresponsive to traditional treatments, he
is sure that the impact of VNS is not akin to a placebo. Placebo is immediately activated and
ends quickly, whereas VNS takes six months before its impact can be felt.
In a 2013 study on depressed patients who were resistant to treatment, it was observed that
those who were provided adjunct VNS along with routine treatment for depression, the
response rates were higher than when one only depended on treatment as usual (TAU).

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Another study by psychiatrist Scott Aaronson also revealed that VNS when used with TAU had
better long-term outcomes than in case of only TAU.
Commenting on the study outcome, Aaronson said, The tolerability of the device is terrific.
The main side effect is hoarseness because the recurrent laryngeal nerve [that supplies the
voice box] comes off the vagus nerve. He suggested that the side effects could be controlled
by temporarily turning off the device by holding a magnet over it.
Apart from hoarseness in the voice, the therapy also causes frequent coughs, breathing
difficulties and changes in heart rhythm. It may also result in ones depression or mania
getting aggravated. Therefore, it is necessary to exercise caution before recommending
bioelectric therapies for depression.
Alternative treatments for depression
There are many novel therapies for combatting depression. Their use with standard
treatments is extremely effective for keeping the condition under check. Three such therapies
that engage ones thoughts constructively while keeping negative thoughts at bay are as
below:
Art therapy: One can engage in creative arts even without having a prior experience
in dance or drama. These activities open the body and mind to a different experience
and help one connect to him/her self. They help release all negativity and boost
confidence thereby reducing symptoms of persistent sadness and low mood,
characteristics of depression.
Mindfulness therapy: Both mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and
mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) promote emotional well-being and
awaken positivity. Such therapies focus on being in the present without worrying
about the past or future. They encourage a person to get attuned to ones senses and
gain better understanding and control of their thoughts and behaviors.
Eco therapy: As the name implies, eco therapy helps one connect with nature.
Whether it is through walks in the nature or horticulture, it relies on the potential of
the nature to heal, soothe and calm.
Do not let depression mar your life
The World Health organization (WHO) reports that depression is the number one cause of
disability worldwide affecting more women than men. However, with proper medication and
treatment, one can lead a quality life. It is important to seek advice from a certified mental
health practitioner who can diagnose the condition in time and suggest appropriate
treatment.
If you or your loved one is suffering from depression, contact the Depression Treatment
Helpline to get information about the best depression recovery centers offering evidence-
based intervention plans. Call our 24/7 helpline 866-619-7729 to find out more about the
depression rehab centers near you.

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