It is normal to feel uncertain about getting treatment for depression or another mental health condition. You may have tried medication or therapy before and not felt much better. Trying a new form of treatment can make you nervous and skeptical that it can make a difference. Those feelings make complete sense. Getting treatment can seem like a big decision.
When you know how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) treatment works and what to expect, adult and adolescent treatment can feel less mysterious and more manageable. Understanding the TMS procedure before you start can help you feel more at ease. The more you understand, the more empowered you become to act and improve your mental health.
It is completely normal to feel anxious before your first TMS session. Many people are nervous before they see how simple and comfortable the procedure is. Once you have gone through the first session, the treatment may seem far less intimidating than before. During your consultation, our team will explain everything clearly. We make sure you understand what to expect from your TMS treatment, and we will not rush you.
TMS therapy does not involve anesthesia or sedation, or any medications for that matter. Instead, TMS uses magnetic coils to stimulate certain regions of your brain. You are awake the entire time, and you can even drive yourself home afterward.
TMS does not cause memory loss or confusion, which can sometimes happen with other types of treatment. The most common side effects are mild discomfort on the scalp or a light tapping feeling during the session. Most people say that this sensation eases after the first few treatments.
Each TMS treatment plan is personalized to you. Before you begin, our clinician will locate the exact area of your brain to be stimulated and set the magnetic strength that works best for your comfort and safety. This careful process helps you tolerate the treatment and makes TMS more effective. You may start to notice your mood improving after just a few weeks. The procedure may even become a quiet, relaxing part of your day.
The TMS procedure is straightforward. You will sit in a comfortable chair like one you might see at a dentist’s office. The magnetic coil is placed on your head, and you will hear and perhaps feel a light tapping.
Each session takes about twenty minutes. You may complete a full course of treatment over several weeks. Over time, the magnetic pulses help strengthen brain pathways that may have become underactive due to depression.
Stronger brain pathways can help improve your overall mood and emotional balance. Comprehending that the TMS procedure fits into your daily routine and does not interfere with your job or your family life can help you be more relaxed about improving your mental health.
Starting a new kind of treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when you are already struggling. However, understanding the TMS procedure and what it involves makes it much less intimidating. It is a safe, proven, and effective treatment option for depression, especially for people who have not had success with medication.
By learning more about how TMS works, you can make an informed and confident decision about your mental health care. Our team at The Grant Group is ready to help you determine whether TMS is right for you. Call our office today, and let us help you achieve recovery and balance.