Alternative Depression Treatment with TMS

What is TMS?

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an alternative treatment
for depression. The procedure is provided for a patient suffering from
depression but who has become resistant to other depression treatments
such as antidepressant drugs.

TMS is a medical intervention that can be used to save a patient who
had lost hope of recovery due to previous unsuccessful treatments. It
involves stimulating the brain, is non-invasive, and does not require
any surgical intervention.

How is alternative depression treatment with TMS
performed?

For your doctor to determine that you need TMS to overcome your
depression, you will undergo a physical examination and a psychiatric
evaluation. Treatment needs to be performed at a medical clinic under
the supervision of your doctor.

During treatment, an electromagnetic coil is used to generate
magnetic pulses which are sent to your brain repeatedly to stimulate
nerve cells. Biologically, when a patient suffers from depression, a
part of their brain becomes less active. This treatment is particularly
meant to reactivate your brain and specifically target the area that
boosts your mood.

TMS Treatment Sessions

Treatment is done in sessions. The average time for each TMS session
is approximately 30 minutes. The sessions should be done at least 5
times a week for 6 to 8 weeks. Treatment is the same in each session.
Your doctor determines the amount of magnetic energy required to
stimulate your brain. The procedure is known to have minimal side
effects such as mild headache and a little discomfort on the area where
the magnetic coil is placed.

If you have tried different types of antidepressants, you have gone
through psychotherapy and you have adjusted to a healthy lifestyle but
your depression hasn’t gone away, you may consider an alternative
treatment for depression with TMS. Call us to schedule your first
appointment.