Depression is a debilitating condition, one that leads to numerous complications over time. It may cause rifts in relationships, limit your quality of life, and even lead to drug or alcohol use. Fortunately, you can get help. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a type of therapy that may provide you with exceptional results. At South Tampa Psychiatry, we can help you to do that.
What Is TMS Therapy?
This treatment is a type of noninvasive therapy for depression and some other mental health disorders. It uses magnetic fields that work to stimulate the nerve cells in the brain. The goal of this therapy is to improve the symptoms you have of depression. Most of the time, TMS therapy is used when other types of care do not work. However, at South Tampa Psychiatry, we specialize in this type of treatment.
How Does TMS Therapy Work for Depression?
During a therapy session, your therapist will place an electromagnetic coil located near the forehead against the scalp. When activated, this device will create a magnetic pulse. You do not feel anything during this process. However, the pulse works to stimulate the nerve cells located in the brain. These brain cells are those that relate specifically to mood control. Many experts believe that this area of the brain’s lack of nerve cell function leads to symptoms of depression.
There are few risks to using this procedure. It does not involve invasive surgery, and it does not require placing electrodes into the brain. There is no risk of seizures, and there is no need for anesthesia during it. Because of the few limitations and risks, it can prove to be well-tolerated.
Some people have mild side effects such as discomfort at the site where the stimulation occurs and headaches. You may also feel lightheaded in some cases.
What Can You Expect During Depression Treatment Like This?
During TMS therapy, you will sit in a comfortable chair while your therapist places the magnetic coil near your forehead.
- The machine turns on, and you’ll hear clicking sounds.
- You may also feel a tapping on your forehead.
- You’ll remain awake and able to talk to your therapist if you need to do so.
- You may feel a bit of discomfort at the site.
- The process lasts about 40 minutes.
Many people will need to have this procedure done several times to see significant improvement. There are no restrictions on what you can do after TMS therapy. You can go back to routine activities right away. You may start to see improvement right away, which may improve further over several weeks. You may see your depression symptoms vanish over time using this treatment.
How Can Our Team Help You Overcome Depression?
It’s one of the most significant decisions of your life. Reach out and get help. You don’t have to manage depression on your own or struggle with any mental health complications that come with it. When you are ready to embrace what TMS therapy is and how it can work for you, our team at South Tampa Psychiatry is prepared to support you.
We encourage you to learn as much as you can about our programs, including treatment for co-occurring disorders. Some of the services and resources we offer include:
- Drug and alcohol detox centers
- Addiction treatment centers
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Withdrawal symptom expectations
- Expectations during detox
Call South Tampa Psychiatry
Overcoming your mental health complications is possible with the right type and level of support. Our team at South Tampa Psychiatry can provide that support to you. Learn more about how we can help with depression, including through the use of TMS therapy. Call us at 866.273.5017 or reach out online for an appointment.
