What Is TMS?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and other conditions. It works by using magnetic pulses to stimulate a specific brain region associated with mood regulation. The goal is to improve brain activity in areas that are underactive in people experiencing major depression. TMS is typically administered as a series of daily treatment sessions over the course of several weeks, and there are different forms, including standard and deep TMS. Unlike medications, TMS treatment targets the brain directly without systemic side effects.Traditional Treatments: Medications and ECT
- Medications Antidepressants are often the first line of defense for treating depression. These include SSRIs, SNRIs, and other drugs designed to alter brain chemistry. While medications can be effective for many, they come with potential side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, low libido, weight gain, or emotional blunting. For some individuals, especially those with treatment-resistant depression, medications alone may not provide sufficient symptom relief.
- Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) ECT has been used for decades to treat severe or persistent mental illnesses. It involves delivering small electrical currents to the brain under anesthesia to trigger controlled seizures. Though effective for many patients with major depressive disorder, ECT is more invasive and can lead to side effects like memory loss and cognitive issues. It typically requires hospitalization or close clinical supervision.
How TMS Stands Out
TMS offers several key advantages over traditional treatments:- Non-Invasive and Outpatient: TMS does not require anesthesia or recovery time. Patients can return to daily activities immediately after each session.
- Minimal Side Effects: Most patients report only mild scalp discomfort or headache during or after treatment sessions.
- FDA Approved: TMS is FDA-approved for treating major depressive disorder and OCD, offering a science-backed solution for individuals who haven’t found relief through medication.
- Personalized Treatment Schedule: At Denver Wellness Associates, TMS protocols are tailored to the individual. A typical treatment schedule includes five sessions per week for six weeks.