Depression is a profound mental health condition that impacts millions of individuals worldwide. Many treat this derailing condition with traditional pharmacology options like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Others include psychotherapy or support from a specialist while they work through their depressive symptoms. While, for many patients, these options lead to marketable improvement, this experience is not universal. Others experience grueling side effects, long wait periods to feel relief, or do not respond to medication or therapy in any way.
That is where Integrative Healthcare Center and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) come in. This blog post about TMS therapy for depression will discuss everything you need to know. We will cover TMS therapy, the treatment process, and the benefits of utilizing the powerful device to treat depression. If considering TMS therapy for depression, read this comprehensive guide to learn about this scientifically supported treatment.
What Is TMS Therapy for Depression?
TMS is a therapy employed as a non-invasive treatment for depression. TMS utilizes magnetic fields, like those used in an MRI, to target specific brain areas associated with mood regulation and depressive disorders. The best feature of the TMS process is that it’s entirely painless! Additionally, it does not require hospitalization or any other type of sedation. In most cases, patients can drive home after treatment!
TMS therapy for depression is an evidence-based, FDA-approved option attracting many. It has led patients who didn’t respond to other treatments out of despair and onto healing. TMS therapy for depression is gaining traction because, in today’s climate, individuals struggling with crippling depression are open to trying new approaches. While TMS therapy for depression may not be the most suitable approach for everyone, many studies show that it can be transformative for many.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder often characterized by intense sadness and low mood. Psychology has extensively studied it, as many variables can influence depression. Additionally, different types of depression affect people in different ways.
In most people, depression affects how they think and feel, which can significantly impair their overall mental health and outlook on life. It can affect a person’s ability to focus, communicate, and eat. It’s often an insidious disorder that can creep on when least expected. Symptoms of depression range from difficulty sleeping to feeling overwhelmed constantly.
Sometimes, depression can become very severe and lead to fatal outcomes. It’s essential not to ignore depressive symptoms in yourself or others, even if they feel inconvenient or difficult to accept. Taking active steps to manage depression can save your life and inspire others to do the same!
What Are the Benefits of TMS Therapy for Depression?
There are several benefits to using TMS therapy for depression. It effectively reduces depressive symptoms in many patients, with some seeing noticeable improvement within a few weeks of starting. Additionally, it does not require the patient to take any medication, although taking medication while receiving TMS treatment is possible. TMS therapy for depression is a safe treatment option with minimal side effects and no long-term risks.
Additionally, some patients feel optimistic about taking the twenty minutes required for each session to focus on their well-being. TMS therapy for depression gets them into the routine of carving out time each day to improve their depression and reframe their perspective. Some even look forward to sessions!
While most talk therapists meet weekly, in some cases, patients experience worsening emotions before things get better. These challenges can be ascribed to the difficulty anyone experiences when exploring their life’s most significant challenges and painful themes in therapy. In the case of medication, some patients experience challenges taking daily pills or worry about other medication issues.
Who Is Eligible for TMS Therapy Treatment for Depression?
TMS therapy is an effective treatment option for adults with major depression that have not responded to more traditional therapies. Providers often recommend TMS therapy for depression when a patient is unresponsive to at least four antidepressant medications. However, some insurance may cover TMS therapy for depression after two medication failures.
TMS therapy for depression is most suitable for an individual looking for a non-surgical option, as it does not require medications like anesthesia or ketamine. Additionally, it does not employ any surgical tools. Further, TMS therapy for depression can be great for patients of varying ages, including the elderly.
Experts are currently researching the effects of TMS therapy during pregnancy. Some researchers and experts suspect that the magnets used in TMS therapy will not interfere with a fetus, making it a potential option for expecting mothers one day. But more research is needed to understand long-standing effects.
Discuss your circumstances with a specialist to ensure you will benefit from TMS therapy. With proper evaluation and guidance, TMS therapy for depression can be a practical approach to managing the difficult symptoms of depression in eligible candidates.
What Should I Expect During a TMS Therapy Session?
During a TMS session, expect to sit in a chair comfortably and feel a repetitive tapping sensation on your head for about 20 minutes. Most people describe the experience as being like an acupuncture treatment. Others say the sound and feel are reminiscent of a woodpecker. Although it can initially feel strange, many patients report feeling more optimistic after their first few visits.
Are There Side Effects of TMS Therapy for Depression?
While TMS therapy for depression can be effective, there are also potential side effects. Some short-term side effects individuals report after TMS therapy can include the following:
- Headaches
- Neck aches
- Discomfort around the scalp area
- Tingling
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
To minimize your risk of experiencing side effects, carefully discuss the procedure with your doctor before undergoing TMS therapy to ensure it is right for you.
Is TMS Therapy for Depression Safe?
Overall, TMS therapy is a safe and effective way to manage depression with fewer side effects than traditional treatments like medication or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Multiple clinical trials support it. In most cases, patients tolerate TMS therapy well and experience a typical day after receiving treatment.
How Much Does TMS Therapy for Depression Cost?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy is quickly becoming the go-to depression treatment for some individuals. However, it’s important to note that the cost of TMS therapy for depression can vary widely depending on several factors. In most cases, insurance coverage depends on the client’s plan and history. So, it’s essential to contact your provider if you are considering TMS therapy for depression. The good news is that many insurance providers cover TMS therapy, so it’s an option for many.
How Can You Get Started with TMS Therapy for Depression?
If you think TMS therapy may be the right choice for your depression, there are several steps you should take before deciding:
- Talk to your doctor about the treatment and ensure it is right for you.
- Find a certified TMS provider who can administer the therapy in a safe and controlled environment.
- Make sure you are comfortable with the entire process before proceeding.
Integrative Healthcare Center and TMS Therapy for Depression
If you have any additional questions or want to speak to a professional about your TMS options, do not hesitate to reach out to one of our experts. Integrative Healthcare Center offers Deep TMS therapy. Like standard TMS therapy, Deep TMS is painless and employs magnetic fields to the brain but is especially effective in treating treatment-resistant cases. Nearly half of our patients experience long-lasting remission from depression with Deep TMS therapy.
The Integrative Healthcare Center’s mission is to help you find genuine relief and start your journey to better mental health. Contact us to book an appointment today.