What Is TMS Therapy? A Safe and Effective Option for Depression and Anxiety

For many years, researchers have investigated effective methods and safe treatments for depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is the leading alternative therapy treatment for depression.  NeuroStar TMS Therapy was the first transcranial magnetic stimulation device to gain FDA clearance for patients suffering from major depressive disorder who had an inadequate response to earlier antidepressant medications.

What is TMS Therapy?

TMS Therapy is a non-invasive treatment administered in a psychiatrist's office under professional supervision, utilizing an advanced technology called the NeuroStar TMS Therapy system.

Non-invasive procedures do not require anesthesia or surgery—non-systemic, meaning that the treatment is localized and does not involve systemic effects, such as oral antidepressants.

The standard treatment plan comprises five treatment sessions per week for a 4–6-week period, approximately 20-30 treatment sessions. Each treatment session typically lasts approximately 40 minutes.

Understanding Anxiety Disorders

 Anxiety disorders have several ranges of mental health conditions, including panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Other related conditions can cause both physical and psychological symptoms, such as uncontrollable worry, muscle tension, and an increased pulse rate.

Dealing with an anxiety disorder can be difficult, and when traditional treatments don't seem to be helpful, individuals may become overwhelmed by their distressing sensations. Understanding how the nature of anxiety affects brain function is the key to identifying new Clinical interventions and enhancing treatment outcomes.

What is TMS - Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?

TMS Therapy (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) utilizes pulses of magnetic fields to stimulate neural activity in regions of the brain involved in mood control.  TMS Therapy is performed in clinical settings under the supervision of a certified mental health provider.

 TMS Therapy: An Effective Treatment for Depression

Have you tried antidepressant therapy for depression treatment of antidepressants? NeuroStar TMS Therapy is a medically proven treatment option to improve depression symptoms in patients who have not responded to previous antidepressant medications.

Postpartum Depression and TMS

TMS is effective in the treatment of postpartum depression (PPD). Postpartum depression, if left untreated, can be one of the most severe depressions a woman can experience, with a higher-than-usual risk of hospitalization. TMS has fewer side effects than many medications and eliminates the possibility of transferring to the infant during nursing.

How Does TMS Therapy Work?

Through a specialized magnetic coil, the NeuroStar TMS Therapy system produces concentrated magnetic fields that turn on and off quickly. These magnetic fields are the same in field strength as those produced by (MRI) systems.

The treatment coil is placed on the scalp above the left frontal cortex. This region of the brain is responsible for emotional balance; therefore, it is the targeted region where magnetic fields are applied. This magnetic stimulation does not directly affect the entire brain; stimulation reaches only about 2-3 centimeters directly beneath the coil, which controls emotion and mood.  As these magnetic fields enter the targeted brain area, they induce an electrical current that helps the brain work normally. These induced electrical pulses activate parts of the brain cells that control mood. The brain, which is believed to produce dopamine, and Neurochemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine. Because depression is linked to brain chemicals and neural imbalances

TMS works to restore equilibrium within mood-regulating brain circuits. TMS helps the brain regain its balance and relieve depression.

Conclusion

TMS therapy signifies an advanced approach to addressing mental health conditions and anxiety. By directly stimulating the brain areas associated with depression and anxiety, TMS offers a non-invasive and effective treatment for those who have not responded to traditional therapies. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, consider consulting with a specialist at KMG Psychiatry to learn more about how TMS therapy can help.