Mental health treatment is constantly evolving, offering new hope to individuals who have struggled with traditional therapies. One innovative solution gaining widespread recognition is TMS therapy. If you’ve been asking yourself, “What is TMS treatment?” — you’re not alone. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a breakthrough, non-invasive treatment that is transforming the lives of people who suffer from mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and more.
What Is TMS Treatment?
TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Primarily used to treat depression, particularly when other treatments haven’t been effective, TMS therapy is a revolutionary tool in psychiatric care.
Approved by the FDA in 2008 for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), TMS has since been researched and applied to other mental health conditions like anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and even certain types of chronic pain. The treatment is administered by trained professionals, typically in a psychiatrist’s office, and does not require anesthesia or sedation.
How Does TMS Therapy Work?
During TMS therapy, an electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp near your forehead. This device delivers a magnetic pulse that stimulates nerve cells in the region of the brain involved in mood regulation. The pulses are painless and aimed at “reawakening” parts of the brain that may have reduced activity in individuals suffering from depression and other mood disorders.
This stimulation helps improve communication between different parts of the brain, leading to better regulation of mood, emotion, and even thought patterns.
Who Can Benefit from TMS Treatment?
TMS therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who:
- Have not found relief through traditional treatments like medication and talk therapy.
- Are experiencing side effects from medications that make ongoing pharmacological treatment challenging.
- Prefer a non-invasive treatment option without the systemic side effects of medications.
- Suffer from conditions such as:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Chronic pain syndromes
It’s important to have a comprehensive evaluation with a qualified psychiatrist, like Dr. Surin Sehdev at Aware Behavioral Health, to determine if TMS is the right choice for you.
What Happens During a TMS Session?
TMS sessions are straightforward, comfortable, and typically last 15 to 20 minutes. Here’s what you can expect:
- Preparation: You will be seated in a comfortable chair, awake and alert. No anesthesia is required.
- Positioning: The provider will position the electromagnetic coil against your head and adjust it to the appropriate target area.
- Stimulation: Once the machine is calibrated, magnetic pulses are delivered to your brain. You might hear a clicking sound and feel a light tapping on your forehead.
- Post-Treatment: After the session, you can immediately return to your normal activities, including driving yourself home or going back to work.
A full course of TMS therapy typically involves daily sessions, five days a week, over four to six weeks.
Are There Any Side Effects?
One of the reasons TMS is so celebrated is its excellent safety profile. Most patients experience few, if any, side effects. When side effects do occur, they are generally mild and short-lived. These may include:
- Scalp discomfort at the treatment site
- Headaches
- Lightheadedness
Serious side effects, such as seizures, are extremely rare. Compared to traditional antidepressant medications, which can cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and gastrointestinal issues, TMS offers a refreshing alternative with minimal risk.
How Effective Is TMS Therapy?
Studies show that approximately 50-60% of people with depression who have tried and failed other treatments experience a significant improvement with TMS. About one-third achieve full remission, meaning their symptoms go away completely.
At Aware Behavioral Health, Dr. Surin Sehdev and his team monitor patient progress closely to ensure the best outcomes. Their compassionate, individualized approach has helped many patients finally experience the relief they’ve been seeking for years.
TMS vs. ECT: What’s the Difference?
Some people confuse TMS with Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), but they are very different treatments.
- TMS is non-invasive, does not require sedation, and has minimal side effects.
- ECT involves inducing a brief seizure under anesthesia, and while effective for severe depression, it often comes with side effects like memory loss.
TMS is often considered when ECT is not appropriate or when patients want a less intensive treatment with fewer potential drawbacks.
Why Choose Aware Behavioral Health for TMS Therapy?
Choosing the right provider for TMS therapy can make all the difference. At Aware Behavioral Health, Dr. Surin Sehdev and his team bring a wealth of expertise, compassion, and commitment to every patient interaction.
What Sets Aware Behavioral Health Apart?
- Personalized Care: No two individuals are the same. Aware Behavioral Health develops customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
- Comprehensive Services: In addition to TMS, they offer therapy, psychiatric medications, and other mental health treatments to ensure a holistic approach to healing.
- Expertise: Dr. Sehdev is a seasoned psychiatrist with deep experience in treating a wide range of conditions, from depression and anxiety to ADHD, addiction, and insomnia.
- Compassionate Approach: Every patient is treated with kindness, respect, and understanding, creating a safe and supportive environment for healing.
If you’re searching for effective relief from depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, TMS at Aware Behavioral Health might be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMS
How quickly will I see results?
Some people notice improvements within the first couple of weeks. However, for others, it may take several weeks of consistent treatment.
Is TMS covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans now cover TMS therapy, particularly for depression, when traditional treatments have failed. Aware Behavioral Health can work with your insurer to determine coverage options.
Can I combine TMS with other treatments?
Yes! TMS can be used alongside therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and other supportive treatments for a more robust recovery.
What if TMS doesn’t work for me?
While TMS is highly effective for many people, it’s not a guaranteed solution for everyone. If TMS is not effective, Dr. Sehdev and the team at Aware Behavioral Health can help explore other advanced treatment options.
Take the Next Step Toward Better Mental Health
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental health condition can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to face it alone. If you’ve been wondering what TMS treatment is and whether it could help you, the answer might be closer than you think.
At Aware Behavioral Health, Dr. Surin Sehdev and his team are ready to help you rediscover hope and happiness through TMS therapy and comprehensive mental health care. Don’t wait to get the support you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how TMS therapy can change your life. Your journey to wellness starts now!
