Depression is a treatable condition. But for some people, standard treatments aren’t effective. Repetitive TMS may be used when standard treatments such as medicines, and talk therapy, known as psychotherapy, don’t work. TMS is short for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of major depression. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also approved TMS for OCD. TMS is a great option to consider when other standard treatments haven’t been effective.
Treatment Session:
While sitting in a comfortable chair, similar to a recliner, a technician or clinician will position the TMS coil (the device that delivers the magnetic pulses) on your head. The exact location will depend on the area being treated and your specific condition
The TMS device will emit magnetic pulses. These pulses are designed to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. You might hear a clicking or tapping sound during the treatment, which is normal and due to the magnetic pulses. You may feel a tapping or tingling sensation on your scalp.
A typical TMS session lasts about 20-30 minutes, depending on the protocol being used. During the session, you can read, listen to music, or just relax. After the session, you can resume your normal activities immediately. TMS doesn’t require downtime, so you can drive yourself home and continue with your daily routine. You may experience mild side effects such as headaches or scalp discomfort, but these usually resolve quickly.
Follow-Up:
You’ll likely have a follow-up appointment to discuss your response to the treatment, adjust the treatment parameters if needed, and address any side effects or concerns. The frequency and duration of the treatment course will vary based on your specific needs and the condition being treated.
