TMS Therapy For Depression

Common Symptoms of Depression

• Feeling down, sluggish, disinterested, and devoid of amusement.
• Intense feelings of unhappiness and hopelessness.
• Strong emotions of disgrace and remorse.
• Absence of optimism or anticipation for the future.
• Heightened hostility.
• Absence of happiness or enjoyment in pursuits.
• Trouble sleeping or excessive sleep.
• Diminished or heightened appetite and alterations in weight.
• Withdrawal from social engagements.
• Difficulty coping with obligations.
• Engaging in self-harm, substance misuse, and contemplating suicide.

For individuals experiencing Major Depressive Disorder, it is crucial to seek support from a mental health expert as the symptoms can be long-lasting. If there are safety concerns, there are resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or their online chat. Moreover, there are other crisis services accessible through a mental health crisis walk-in center or the Emergency Room.

Traditional Treatments for Depression

Treating depression typically involves a combination of therapies tailored to the individual’s needs. These may include:

• Medication: Antidepressant medications are often prescribed to help regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation.
• Psychotherapy: Various forms of talk therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), can help individuals identify and address the underlying causes of their depression.
• Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating healthy habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can contribute to improved mood and overall well-being.
• Support Groups: Participating in support groups or seeking social support from friends and family can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.

While these treatments can be effective for many people, they do not work for everyone. Some individuals experience treatment-resistant depression, which means they do not respond well to standard therapies.

Read more: Major Depressive Disorder →

How Do Medications for Depression Work?

As mentioned, studies on the underlying causes of depression have revealed various alterations in different regions of the brain. Additionally, changes in brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, have been found to correspond with depression symptoms. Broadly speaking, there are deficiencies in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Antidepressants aim to address these deficiencies by indirectly increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain.

Regrettably, a large number of individuals do not experience the desired results from antidepressants in both the short and long term. It is estimated that around 30% or more of patients with Major Depression face treatment resistance and relapse. This indicates that deficiencies in neurotransmitters cannot be solely blamed for causing Major Depression, and they do not provide a long-term solution to the problem. Due to limited treatment options, patients and healthcare professionals are compelled to try one medication after another, as well as a combination of medications, in the hopes of finding relief. However, with each attempt, the effectiveness of the medications diminishes and the likelihood of experiencing side effects increases.

What Can We Do When Medications Fail?

When conventional treatments and medications are ineffective, alternative brain stimulation therapies like Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) can provide significant relief for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. While ECT can be highly effective, it is reserved for severe or resistant mental disorders due to the need for anesthesia and a surgical environment. Similarly to medications, ECT is also constrained by potential side effects.

Now let’s talk about TMS. The great thing is that this innovative therapy has demonstrated impressive outcomes and does not have any of the widespread side effects associated with medications or the obstacles and side effects linked to ECT. It is highly safe and well-tolerated, can be administered at an outpatient facility, and exhibits superior rates of response and remission in the short and long term when compared to numerous rounds of medication trials.

Benefits of TMS Therapy for Depression

TMS therapy offers several advantages for individuals struggling with depression:

• Non-Invasive: TMS therapy does not involve surgery or anesthesia, making it a non-invasive and relatively low-risk treatment option.
• Minimal Side Effects: The most common side effect of TMS therapy is mild scalp discomfort or headache, which typically improves over time. Unlike many antidepressant medications, TMS does not cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or other systemic side effects.
• Improved Quality of Life: Many individuals experience significant relief from depressive symptoms, leading to an improved overall quality of life. This can include increased energy, better concentration, and enhanced social functioning.
• Long-Lasting Effects: TMS therapy has shown lasting effects, with some individuals experiencing sustained remission from depression even after treatment has ended.
• Enhanced Response: TMS therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have not responded to other treatments or who cannot tolerate the side effects of medication.
• Avoidance of ECT: TMS therapy provides an alternative to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for individuals who require a non-invasive option.

Is TMS Therapy Right for You? 

TMS therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its suitability varies from person to person. It is generally recommended for individuals who meet the following criteria:

1. Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder: TMS therapy is typically indicated for individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD).
2. Treatment-Resistant Depression: TMS is often considered when other treatments, such as antidepressant medications and psychotherapy, have been ineffective or have caused intolerable side effects.
3. No Contraindications: Certain medical and neurological conditions may contraindicate TMS therapy. A thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider will determine eligibility.
4. Commitment to Treatment: TMS therapy requires a commitment to attending daily sessions for several weeks. Individuals considering TMS should be prepared for this time commitment.
5. Desire for Non-Invasive Treatment: TMS therapy appeals to those who prefer non-invasive treatments and want to avoid the risks associated with surgery or anesthesia.
6. Medication Sensitivities: TMS therapy can be an excellent option for individuals who are sensitive to or cannot tolerate the side effects of antidepressant medications.

It’s important to note that TMS therapy is not recommended for everyone, and a thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional is necessary to determine if it is a suitable treatment option.

Read more: TMS Therapy in Chicago →

Potential Side Effects of TMS Therapy

While TMS therapy is generally well-tolerated and associated with minimal side effects, it’s essential to be aware of the possible discomforts that may arise during treatment. Common side effects include:

• Scalp Discomfort: Some individuals may experience mild scalp discomfort or a sensation of tapping or knocking during TMS sessions. This discomfort typically decreases as the treatment progresses.
• Headache: Headaches are another common side effect, but they are usually mild and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate this discomfort.
• Lightheadedness: Occasionally, individuals may feel lightheaded or dizzy immediately following a TMS session. This sensation typically subsides quickly.
• Tingling Sensation: Some people may experience a tingling sensation in their face or scalp during treatment.

It’s crucial to communicate any side effects or discomfort with the healthcare provider overseeing the TMS therapy, as they can make adjustments to the treatment plan if needed. It’s also important to remember that the majority of individuals undergoing TMS therapy experience these side effects as mild and manageable inconveniences.

What Does a TMS Treatment Involve?

As mentioned earlier, after you have finished your initial consultation and have been deemed suitable for treatment, you will be given the recommended TMS therapy plan.

During the first session, a ‘mapping’ session will occur where your healthcare team will identify the optimal stimulation intensity and site to induce electrical activity in your brain. As a safety measure, you will wear soft earplugs to protect your ears from the mild to moderate tapping sound produced during the stimulation. The actual treatment will commence after the ‘mapping’ session.

You will be comfortably seated in a reclining chair, ensuring that your head remains in the same position throughout the treatment. The magnetic coil will then be placed on your scalp at the specific area being treated, resting gently on it. The treatment will commence by repeatedly stimulating the treatment site, with short breaks in between to allow the neurons to activate and establish connections. These breaks are necessary to trigger increased activity in the nearby nerve cells that are not functioning as they should. Alternatively, if the stimulation is continuous or repetitive, it may lead to a decrease or dampening of activity. This method can be useful in situations where there is excessive brain activity, such as in cases of anxiety.

The magnetic pulsations may be perceived as a distinct tapping sensation that encompasses the area being treated. These pulsations only have a direct impact on the activity of neurons within a range of two to three centimeters around the treatment site. As a result, you only feel the pulsations within this specific diameter. Typically, patients can tolerate this sensation well, and we usually begin with a lower intensity level and gradually increase it during the first week to prevent any discomfort. Patients find the most common side effects tend to be mild headaches or slight sensitivity at the treatment site, however, these are generally mild and resolve after a few sessions. Some patients have even drifted off to sleep during the treatment as the pulsations have a soothing effect. However, this is not the goal as we want the brain in a resting, but wakeful state, it gives an indication of how seamless TMS treatment can be.

The duration of treatment may differ depending on the number of treatment areas and the specific factors involved. Once the initial mapping is finished and your individual factors are recorded in the system, you should typically be able to complete your visit to the office within 30 minutes or less.

There is no requirement for medication before, during, or after the procedure to withstand any discomfort. While you have the option to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, most people find this unnecessary. You are capable of driving to and from your appointments without any assistance. Following the treatment, you are free to resume your work and other daily activities.

Your TMS care team carefully assesses each treatment and securely documents the progress in our electronic health record. We continuously review the treatment during the care process and make necessary adjustments. If needed, we can administer remapping or modifications to the treatment protocol.

Why TMS?

Depression is a challenging condition that can significantly impact an individual’s life, but it is not insurmountable. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy offers new hope for those who have struggled with treatment-resistant depression or have not found relief through traditional therapies.

TMS therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and effective treatment option that has been FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Its ability to target specific areas of the brain and modulate neural activity makes it a promising choice for individuals seeking an alternative to medication or psychotherapy.

If you or a loved one is living with depression and has not found relief through conventional treatments, it’s essential to consider TMS therapy as a potential solution. A thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional can determine whether TMS is the right choice for you.

Remember, depression is a treatable condition, and with the right treatment approach, there is hope for a brighter future. TMS therapy has the potential to transform lives by providing relief from the burdens of depression and restoring a sense of well-being and joy.

Read more: TMS Therapy in Arlington Heights →

TMS Therapy For Depression at Clarity TMS

If you are interested in learning more about TMS therapy or wish to explore it as a treatment option, reach out to a qualified mental health provider or a TMS clinic in your area. They can provide you with personalized information, assess your suitability for TMS therapy, and guide you through the treatment process.

You are not alone in your journey toward mental health and happiness. TMS therapy is a beacon of hope for individuals seeking a path to recovery, and it may be the key to unlocking a brighter future free from the weight of depression. Don’t hesitate to take the first step toward transformation and healing.

Book now: Free TMS Consultation →