Transcranial magnetic stimulation TMS is a revolutionary therapy for treatment-resistant depression and other mental health issues. In TMS treatment, magnetic pulses are sent into the specific areas of the brain. This brain stimulation can decrease depressive symptoms over the course of several TMS treatments.
At Active Path, we are committed to providing education as well as TMS therapy. Many of our patients are skeptical of TMS treatment, so here we will address common myths about TMS therapy. These TMS therapy myths and the truth about TMS therapy should make you more willing to try this treatment.
If you’d like to learn more about TMS, reach out to Active Path today and book an appointment.
1. TMS Therapy is Only for Depressive Symptoms
While it is true that TMS therapy is only FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression, it has shown promise in treating other mental health conditions as well. Particularly, studies have shown that TMS therapy is a successful treatment for anxious depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
2. TMS Therapy is Painful and Invasive
There is no pain involved with TMS treatment. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive treatment for major depressive disorder. No sedation or anesthesia is necessary for TMS treatment. At most, patients will feel scalp discomfort during and just after treatment.
3. TMS Therapy Has Severe Side Effects
Unlike electroconvulsive therapy, TMS therapy doesn’t have lasting side effects. It is an effective treatment for treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions. It doesn’t cause the cognitive decline that ECT therapy is known for. The only side effects of TMS therapy are headache and scalp discomfort.
4. TMS Therapy is a Last Resort
This myth about TMS therapy is based on the idea that TMS treatment options are only used to treat depression when other treatments have failed. This is simply not the case. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a safe and effective treatment for depression at any stage, particularly when patients find the side effects of medications to be too demanding.
5. TMS Therapy is Time Consuming and Disruptive
While it is true that TMS therapy requires a commitment to treatment, it doesn’t have to be time-consuming or disruptive to daily life. Each treatment session lasts just 20 minutes. While treatment sessions are scheduled daily for four to six weeks, we can accommodate your schedule so that it isn’t disruptive to your daily life.
6. TMS Therapy is Only for Adults
Depression treatment is needed for adolescents as well as adults, and TMS treatment options are available for this age group. The FDA has approved transcranial magnetic stimulation TMS treatment for use in teens, and studies have shown it to be effective for this age group.
7. TMS Treatment is Ineffective
This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Our patients have experienced positive outcomes in treating depression with TMS treatment. This treatment option received FDA approval in 2008, and since that time it has continued to show steady results.
8. TMS Treatment Requires In-Patient Hospitalization
While TMS treatment is given in in-patient settings, this is not absolutely necessary. There are no special preparations for TMS treatment, and sessions can be had in a trusted and experienced mental health office such as Active Path Mental Health. Our technicians are well-versed in how to use TMS for depression and other mental health conditions.
9. TMS Treatment Isn’t Covered by Insurance
TMS treatment doesn’t have to come out of your own pocket. Many major insurance companies have come to pay for TMS treatment sessions. Active Path can help you navigate the approval process to get TMS treatment paid for by insurance benefits.
Contact Active Path for TMS Treatment Today
If you’re experiencing treatment-resistant depression and are interested in exploring TMS therapy, reach out to us for an initial consultation to see if it’s the right fit for you.
When you’re ready to take a step toward a life beyond depression, contact the compassionate team at Active Path at 503.719.4648 for a no-obligation consultation on your treatment options. Depression can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent part of your life—Active Path is here to support you in reclaiming your mental wellness.
Start your path to recovery with innovative and effective treatment at Active Path today.
