If you are considering treatments for depression, you may have come across transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy in your research. The FDA has cleared TMS to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxious depression. Research has shown that TMS is particularly helpful for patients whose depression has not responded to other treatments. If you are interested in this treatment, our providers at The Holiner Psychiatric Group are ready to help you explore the benefits of TMS therapy.
TMS therapy aims to restore neurotransmitter levels responsible for mood regulation to their optimal state by using a treatment coil to introduce short magnetic fields to the brain’s left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. The magnetic fields are comparable to those in an MRI. At specific depths inside the brain, the magnetic fields produce gentle electrical currents that, in turn, activate cells that release neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Researchers believe that an imbalance of these neurotransmitters contributes to depression, so the benefits of restoring them to their optimal levels through TMS therapy may include better symptom management.
TMS therapy may offer advantages if you choose to incorporate it into your treatment plan. Our providers will guide you in exploring these benefits further, helping you better understand how this treatment may impact your daily life.
TMS therapy often helps improve depression symptoms when psychotherapy or antidepressants fail to provide relief. It can be difficult when your depression does not respond to your initial attempts at treatment, but TMS can help you find relief and hope once again.
TMS therapy is an outpatient treatment that allows you to maintain your usual routine with minimal interruptions. Most sessions take less than an hour, giving you plenty of time for other activities. Additionally, because TMS does not require anesthesia or painkillers, you may not have side effects after treatment. You can drive, work, and engage in other activities as you usually would without having to take time off.
TMS is often used to avoid the typical side effects of antidepressants, including:
Some patients choose a multi-faceted care approach that includes both TMS and antidepressants based on their specific needs, but they do not always require medication.
Unlike some other treatments, side effects are uncommon with TMS therapy. Unlike electroshock therapy, researchers have not found a link between TMS and memory issues. The most significant side effect of TMS therapy is seizure, though the risk is extremely low—less than 1 percent.
Our providers can help you weigh the benefits and disadvantages of TMS therapy to ensure you are comfortable with your treatment.
You may experience several positive aspects of TMS therapy in your daily life. From being able to take pleasure in daily activities to experiencing minimal side effects, the treatment can improve your life in a variety of ways. If you are interested in TMS therapy, our team at The Holiner Psychiatric Group can help you get started with your personalized plan of care to help treat your depression.
Schedule a consultation with our providers today, and we can help you explore the benefits of TMS therapy. We are ready to partner with you on your unique journey to emotional wellness.