TMS is a revolutionary tool that is helping people living with depressive disorders find relief that they may not have found otherwise. But, how do you know if you’re a good candidate for TMS therapy for depression?
More About What TMS Is
TMS is a type of therapy that is approved for the use of treating symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) by the FDA. It’s a non-invasive approach that is especially useful for people who are living with treatment-resistant depression, which is depression that doesn’t respond well to other, more traditional types of depression treatment such as antidepressants or behavioral therapies.
How Does TMS Work?
TMS is conducted by first assessing a person’s brain to identify areas that aren’t working as they should produce mood-managing brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, Once these areas of the brain are identified, a TMS specialist will know exactly where to utilize the TMS machine during sessions. During a TMS session, the patient will sit down in a chair comfortably and the machine will be placed near their head. Once the machine is turned on, the TMS device sends magnetic pulses to the brain in order to stimulate the specific treatment areas, working to jump-start the neurons in the brain into working how they should. During treatment sessions, patients can expect to hear the machine send these magnetic pulses which are commonly compared to the sound of an MRI machine.
Who is a Good Candidate for TMS Sessions?
There are specific people who may be a better fit for TMS sessions than others. People who are good candidates for TMS include people who:
- are struggling with the effects of treatment-resistant depression
- have tried other types of depression treatment without getting the results they need
- are over the age of 18
- have a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Who May Not be a Good Candidate for TMS Sessions?
While TMS is a great option for people who are struggling with the symptoms of MDD, there are some people who are better fit for other types of depression therapies. Some instances that may disqualify a person from qualifying for TMS therapy sessions can include if a person is:
- diagnosed with seizure disorders
- has a medically implanted device in their body that may interfere with magnets
- more suited to other types of depression therapies
- not one who has tried more traditional approaches to treating depression first
- under the age of 18
- under physical or medical risk
- dealing with head trauma due to injury
- diagnosed with severe headaches or migraines
Think You May be a Good Candidate for TMS Therapy for Depression?
TMS has a low risk of side effects and a very high success rate for people who are looking to find symptom relief for MDD. And, since it’s a well-tolerated treatment, many people qualify for this depression therapy. So, if you believe you may be a good candidate for TMS, consider Synchrony Brain Health for your depression treatment needs. Find out more about what you can expect from our outpatient mental health services that focus on the brain from our website today.
