Do you have depression?
Is medication not helping?
If so, perhaps repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is the best treatment. This article will help you learn more about TMS and whether it may be able to provide relief for your symptoms.
TMS works by sending magnetic pulses to the brain, which stimulates nerve cells in areas that control mood. TMS is used as a treatment for those suffering from depression who have not been helped by antidepressant medications or other treatment options such as psychotherapy and/or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
TMS may be a good option if you don’t want to take medication every day, are unable to take ECT due to health reasons, prefer outpatient treatment over hospitalization, or would like another form of care apart from drugs.
TMS does not cause any of the side effects associated with medications or ECT; however, TMS can be expensive and may require travel expenses for some people as it must be done in a doctor’s office.
A typical TMS treatment session lasts about 40 minutes each day during which time you sit under an MRI scanner.
Dr. Carlsen usually recommends a treatment plan that requires 30-36 treatments. This generally involves five treatments a week for 4-6 weeks. In some cases, she may recommend additional treatments for optimal results.
If you’re suffering from depression despite treatment with antidepressants, or you’re looking for a natural option to address a mental health condition, schedule a TMS consultation with Dr. Carlsen. Call North Shore TMS today, or make an appointment online.
