The Pros & Cons of TMS Therapy

Mental health disorders like anxiety and depression have become a common health issue for people worldwide. Luckily there are a couple of treatments available, like psychotherapy and the use of prescribed medications. The medications typically work well, but for a fraction of the people who suffer from mental health disorders, especially depression, medication is ineffective or can't be tolerated due to the side effects.

Other effective treatments, like transcranial magnetic stimulation, are available for those who do not respond well to conventional therapies.

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy?

This is a type of therapy that focuses on stimulating the brain. It is a non-invasive procedure that involves using a device that delivers rapid electromagnetic pulses and localized magnetic fields to stimulate the nerve cells in the brain. This approach improves the symptoms of depression or other mental health disorders.

TMS therapy may seem complicated and, to some, scary, so before considering it, one may need to know about its pros and cons before deciding on the treatment.

Pros of using transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy

The procedure is non-invasive

Most treatment choices for major mental health disorders, except talk therapy, require sedation or other medications to relieve pain. Even the use of anti-depressants is considered to be more invasive. For TMS therapy, an electromagnetic coil is placed against certain parts of your head, and it delivers painless electromagnetic pulses for stimulation.

It has a high success rate

Various studies about transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy show that it has a high success rate, especially when treating major depressive disorders. The success rates vary, but in general, it is found to produce positive results for about 60% of patients.

It does not have any significant side effects

Since this treatment does not involve ingestion of any medication, there will be no reactions in the body that can cause side effects like gaining weight, drowsiness and fatigue, memory loss, or even sexual side effects. However, this does not mean there are no side effects: Some may face mild headaches and minor discomforts that eventually go away.

The therapy fits well into your day-to-day activities

Since the therapy does not require sedation, you can go on with your everyday life performing your activities before and after the treatment. You don't even have to depend on others for something like driving since you can do it yourself. All you need to do is make appointments for five days a week, make the visits and after that, continue with your normal activities.

The therapy has long-lasting results

People who have used transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy have also reported that the relief from TMS lasts longer. To some, the benefits last months and others even years after getting the treatment. This is much better than receiving medications indefinitely.

The cons of using transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy

It is not widely available

TMS is not as popular as psychotherapy and other treatment methods and is not offered in most places. This is because it is a new treatment, and it needs some time to catch up because it requires an institution to buy equipment and train personnel to operate.

Some insurance companies can be very strict about the coverage criteria of the treatment. For example, some require you to try other conventional treatments first and only approve TMS if they have all failed. On the other hand, the treatment can be costly without insurance.

There is a low chance one may experience seizures

Even though the risk of getting a seizure is low, it is not ruled out. And if you have a history of seizures, it is advisable to make sure the doctor is aware and see if it is safe to undergo TMS. In some cases of active seizure disorder, the treatment is not recommended.

Requires commitment

This is because it requires one to go for treatment five days a week for six weeks, which can be very annoying. So you need to make the sessions a compulsory activity so as not to forget.

TMS therapy is increasingly popular as a treatment for depression, so speak to your doctor about the advantages of this innovative new way to combat your mental health problems.

This is general information. Obtain specific advice from a medical professional.