Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been used to treat various neurological and psychiatric conditions since the 1980s, including major depressive disorder (MDD). It offers an alternative, effective treatment option for people who don’t find relief from traditional medication for their mental health concerns.
How Does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Work?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation utilizes focused magnetic pulses to target specific areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. The science behind this innovative treatment lies in the ability of magnetic fields to generate small electrical currents in the regions of the brain that are underactive in conditions like major depressive disorder.
This stimulation can enhance brain activity in areas that are crucial for mood regulation, providing relief from the symptoms of depression.
Conditions Treated by Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
TMS is a versatile tool that has shown efficacy in a range of conditions, reflecting our commitment to diverse mental health solutions.
TMS can be used to treat conditions such as:
- Major depressive disorder
- Anxiety disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Understanding TMS Therapy for Depression
TMS works by targeting the prefrontal cortex of the brain, an area often found to be less active in people with depression. The magnetic pulses stimulate these underactive nerve cells, promoting the release of neurotransmitters and thereby enhancing mood regulation.
TMS therapy also helps to reset neural pathways around the prefrontal cortex, allowing for a more effective exchange of information between regions and better regulation of mood. This can improve cognitive functioning and increase emotional stability, leading to fewer symptoms of depression and more successful therapy outcomes.
The Benefits of TMS
According to a Stanford University School of Medicine study, 80% of participants with severe depression experienced rapid remission after participating in TMS therapy.1 TMS therapy is an effective treatment for those seeking an alternative to traditional therapies.
TMS therapy can offer several benefits, especially for those suffering from treatment-resistant depression:
- Effectiveness: TMS therapy has been proven to be effective in treating depression, particularly in individuals who don’t respond well to traditional medication.
- Non-invasive treatment: TMS therapy does not require any surgical intervention or anesthesia. The procedure involves a magnetic coil placed on the scalp to trigger nerve activity in the brain.
- Minimal side effects: Common side effects are generally mild and may include headache or scalp discomfort at the treatment site, which typically diminish over time.
- Minimal interruption to daily routine: TMS therapy sessions typically last about 20-30 minutes, and clients can resume their regular activities and drive home immediately following treatment.
- Supports a comprehensive approach: TMS therapy can be integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy, lifestyle changes, and supportive services.
- FDA approval: TMS therapy has been approved by the FDA, affirming its use and efficacy for treating certain forms of depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
What to Expect During TMS Treatment
During a TMS session, you’ll be seated in a comfortable chair and a clinician will place an electromagnetic coil against your scalp near your forehead. This coil then emits magnetic pulses that stimulate nerve cells in the part of the brain responsible for mood control and depression. These pulses feel like a slight tapping on the scalp. These might be mildly uncomfortable for some people, but most report that they get used to it after a session or two.
The treatment is relatively short, typically 20 to 30 minutes per session, and is conducted daily for four to six weeks (usually a total of 30-36 sessions). TMS is a non-invasive treatment and doesn’t require anesthesia, so you can resume your daily routine immediately after each session. A psychiatric provider will regularly review your symptoms and determine whether anything should be adjusted. They’ll also work with your therapist and any other psychiatric providers to ensure a holistic care plan.
- Before treatment: You’ll relax in a comfortable treatment chair while a curved magnetic coil is gently positioned on your head.
- During treatment: The coil targets the source of depression directly in the brain. You’ll hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head.
- After treatment: Once your treatment session is complete, you can drive home and continue your day as usual. There are no negative effects on memory or sleep.
Possible Side Effects of TMS
Most people undergoing TMS experience few, if any, side effects. However, common side effects that have been reported include scalp discomfort at the site of stimulation, headache, and lightheadedness. These are typically mild and diminish over time, with many clients finding that simple over-the-counter pain relievers or adjustments in the stimulation settings can provide relief.
A clinician will monitor you during the duration of the session and help ensure you’re as comfortable during treatment.
Most Depression Requires Multifaceted Treatment
TMS can be incredibly effective for treating depression, but it’s typically part of a well-rounded care plan. People often recover the best when they receive multifaceted care involving therapy on top of other treatments like medication or TMS.
While TMS and medication can change brain function at a cellular level, a therapist can help people with depression understand the root of their symptoms, process difficult feelings, then learn new ways to change their thoughts and behaviors.
Call New Directions Mental Health to Begin Healing with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
New Directions Mental Health is committed to offering comprehensive mental health treatment options to help our neighbors across southwest Pennsylvania relieve their depression symptoms. In addition to TMS therapy, we provide therapy, medication management, and other alternative treatments to ensure our clients find the most effective treatment for their unique needs.
Call us at 724.374.7414 to discover more about this treatment option, or schedule your first appointment today.
Source:
- Erickson, Mandy. (2021). Experimental depression treatment is nearly 80% effective in controlled study. https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2021/10/depression-treatment.html
