Table of Contents
Questions about TMS?
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder that is characterized by persistent feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and a loss of interest in activities. Some people may also experience thoughts of self-harm and suicide. Depression affects how people feel, think, and manage their daily routines. It can impact a person’s ability to function and cause issues with relationships, work, and school.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Some of the more common signs and symptoms of depression can include:
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Feeling worthless
- Feeling guilty
- Lack of energy
- General sense of fatigue
- Difficulties concentrating, focusing, and making decisions
- Sleep disturbances – excessive sleeping or insomnia
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
- Sadness
- Emptiness
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
How Can TMS Therapy Help with Depression?
Types of Depression TMS Treats
TMS can be used to treat different types of depression, including:
- MDD (major depressive disorder): This type of depression can be accompanied by debilitating symptoms that last throughout the day and for periods of two weeks or longer.
- Treatment-resistant depression: This type of depression is when other forms of treatment and medications have not helped improve a person’s depressive symptoms.
- PDD (persistent depressive disorder): This type of depression is when depressive symptoms last for two years or longer. The symptoms are normally less intense than MDD, but they can still impact a person’s ability to function.
- Postpartum Depression: When new mothers are experiencing postpartum depression, TMS can be beneficial in helping improve their mood and alleviating sadness, anxiety, guilt, and irritability.
- Depression triggered by alcohol and substance use disorders: When someone is addicted to alcohol or drugs, their continued drinking and substance use can cause depressive symptoms. TMS can help alleviate those symptoms as part of a comprehensive co-occurring disorder treatment plan.
What Are the Risks of TMS for Depression?
There are very few risks of TMS for depression. However, some people may experience certain side effects, such as:
- Headaches
- Lightheadedness/dizziness
- Scalp discomforts
- Tingling sensations
- Facial muscle may twitch or spasm
Generally, these side effects subside with an hour or two of treatment. There is also the risk of some very rare and severe side effects in certain individuals, including a worsening of symptoms and seizures.
Benefits of TMS for Depression
The benefits of TMS for depression treatment can vary from person to person depending on the severity of their depression and related symptoms. Usually, most people respond well to TMS therapy with the following benefits:
- Relief of symptoms: Most people report a reduction in symptoms within an hour or two of treatment. Some people notice these effects immediately following a session, too.
- Improved mood: Many people notice their mood is improved following a TMS session.
- Increased energy: Another benefit of TMS is increased energy levels, allowing people to enjoy hobbies and activities without losing interest.
- Improved concentration and focus: With a reduction in depressive symptoms, people find it easier to concentrate and focus:
- Immediate results: Unlike medications, which can take months to start working, many people notice immediate results with TMS within one or two sessions.
- Drug-free form of therapy: For people who do not want to use medications to treat their depression, are worried about potential drug side effects, dislike how medications make them feel, or have found drugs not to be effective, TMS is a viable alternative.
- Fast and convenient: Therapy sessions last between 20 and 40 minutes without any downtime afterward, allowing people to return to their normal daily routines.
How TMS for Depression Therapy in Los Angeles Works
TMS for depression therapy in Los Angeles begins with a thorough physical and psychological evaluation to verify you are a good candidate for this form of therapy. If you are, then your licensed psychiatrist will schedule TMS sessions. The frequency and number of sessions you require will vary, and your TMS treatment plan adjusted based on your feedback from each session.
During a session, you can expect the following:
- Assisted into a comfortable position, sitting or lying down
- Be connected to the TMS device that will be used to target a specific brain region
- You can be given earplugs or encouraged to listen to music during the treatment
- You may notice a slight tapping sensation in the area being treated
- You may hear clicking sounds as the magnet turns on and off
- After treatment, you may be asked to relax for about five minutes before getting up
Before leaving, the technician will ask how you feel and if you notice any potential side effects.
Begin TMS for Depression Treatment Today
Iris Healing provides access to TMS for depression treatment in Los Angeles. Our caring and compassionate team is ready to help you overcome your depression with comprehensive and personalized treatment plans. We can also help you if you are suffering from co-occurring disorders. Contact us today for further information about TMS or to schedule an initial consultation.
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Iris Healing® strives to be diligent and prompt in updating the information available on our website. Please note, however, that our treatment modalities and protocols are subject to change at any time. For the most up-to-date details regarding our treatment offerings or other protocols, please contact us: (844)663-4747
