jake, Author at Gemini TMS

A woman holding pills in her hand with a glass of water

TMS Treatment

TMS vs. Medication: A Comparative Study in Treating Depression

Depression is a common mental illness affecting millions of people worldwide. Several treatment options are available to manage depression, including medication and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Medication has been the standard treatment option for many years, but in recent years, many people have turned to TMS as an alternative therapy. In this blog, we will compare TMS vs. medication in treating depression and help you understand which one might be a better option for you or a loved one.

Antidepressant pills packaged as tabs with yellow faces showing happy and sad emotions.

Understanding Antidepressants

Medication is the most commonly used treatment option for depression. Antidepressants work by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for mood regulation. While antidepressants have been effective in treating depression, they come with several side effects. Common side effects of antidepressants include nausea, headaches, dizziness, and sexual dysfunction. In some cases, antidepressants can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, not all people respond well to antidepressants, and it may take several weeks for the medication to take effect.

Understanding TMS

TMS is a newer treatment option for depression that has gained popularity in recent years. TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain that are responsible for mood regulation. TMS has been shown to be an effective treatment option for depression in many people. Additionally, TMS does not have the same side effects as antidepressants, which makes it an attractive treatment option for people who cannot tolerate medication. TMS also works faster than medication, and many people notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks.

A brain cell being stimulated by magnetic pulses

Medication Advantages

One advantage of medication over TMS is that antidepressants are covered by insurance, while TMS is not always covered. The cost of TMS can be a significant barrier to access for many people, which makes medication a more accessible treatment option for depression. Additionally, medication is more widely available than TMS, which can make it easier for people living in rural areas to access treatment.

While medication and TMS are both effective treatment options for depression, it’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with depression is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s essential to work with a qualified mental health professional to determine the best treatment option for you or a loved one. Additionally, medication and TMS can be used together to manage depression. This is called combination therapy and can be an effective option for people who do not respond well to medication or TMS alone.

Seeking Help

Depression is a complex mental illness that can be difficult to manage. While medication has been the standard treatment option for many years, TMS has gained popularity as an alternative therapy. Both medication and TMS are effective treatment options for depression, but they come with different advantages and disadvantages. If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, it’s essential to work with a qualified mental health professional to determine the best treatment option. Remember, everyone’s experience with depression is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

TMS Treatment

The Evolution of TMS: Past, Present, and Future Perspectives

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Doctors have prescribed various medications for years to help individuals struggling with depression. However, as with any medication, they have potentially severe side effects. In recent years, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a promising alternative therapy for depression. In this blog, we will explore the evolution of TMS as a therapy for depression, including its past, present, and future perspectives.

The Past Perspective:

TMS was first introduced in the 1980s and was initially used for diagnosing neurological disorders. Its potential therapeutic application was not explored until the late 1990s. The first TMS trials for depression were conducted in the early 2000s, and the results were promising. However, the therapy was relatively new, and there was no FDA approval for its treatment of depression.

The Present Perspective:

Today, TMS has gained FDA approval and is considered an efficacious alternative to medication for treating depression. TMS stimulates the brain's prefrontal cortex, which controls mood regulation. During TMS treatment, a technician places a magnetic coil on a patient's scalp, which generates an electromagnetic field that stimulates brain cells. Treatment typically lasts four to six weeks, with daily sessions lasting between 20-40 minutes, depending on the device used.

The Future Perspective:

As TMS continues to gain popularity, researchers are exploring new ways it can be used. One promising avenue is using TMS in combination with other therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. Combining TMS and CBT could provide more comprehensive treatment for individuals with depression, making it more effective. Additionally, researchers are exploring the use of TMS for other mental health conditions, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction.

Cost and Availability:

One of the main drawbacks of TMS is the cost. The cost of a TMS treatment varies depending on the location and device used, and it is typically not covered by insurance. However, many clinics offer TMS, which could drive down the cost due to increased competition.

A Promising Alternative Therapy

The evolution of TMS as a therapy for depression has been remarkable. From its introduction in the 1980s to today, it is considered an efficacious alternative to medication for depression. Researchers are continuously exploring new ways TMS can be used, and it has shown promise for treating other mental health conditions like anxiety and PTSD. As TMS continues to gain popularity, it could become more affordable and accessible to those who need it. TMS is not a panacea but is undoubtedly a promising alternative therapy that could improve the quality of life for millions of individuals struggling with depression.

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Depression, TMS Treatment

Navigating Postpartum Depression: The Promising Role of TMS Therapy

The journey into motherhood is often accompanied by a whirlwind of emotions, from joy and excitement to uncertainty and anxiety. For many new moms, however, these feelings can take a darker turn and develop into postpartum depression (PPD). This serious mental health condition affects approximately 1 in 7 women, causing persistent sadness, hopelessness, and difficulty bonding with their newborn.

Recognizing the importance of seeking treatment for postpartum depression is essential, as untreated PPD can have lasting consequences on both the mother and her family. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and a quicker recovery, allowing new moms to fully embrace the joys of motherhood. One promising treatment option that has gained increasing attention is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive therapy that has shown remarkable results in alleviating symptoms of depression, including PPD.

In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of TMS therapy for postpartum depression and provide useful information for new moms who are considering this innovative treatment option.

Symptoms and signs of postpartum depression

Symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD) can include persistent sadness, irritability, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness. Physical symptoms like fatigue and changes in appetite may also occur. It is important to note that these symptoms can vary in intensity and duration for each individual.

While many new mothers experience “baby blues” – a period of mood swings, tearfulness, and mild anxiety – postpartum depression is more severe and long-lasting. Baby blues typically resolve within a few weeks, while PPD can last for months or even years without proper treatment. The key difference between the two lies in the severity, duration, and impact on daily functioning.

Untreated PPD can hinder a mother’s ability to bond with her baby and negatively affect her relationship with her partner. It can also lead to long-term emotional and developmental issues for the child. The ripple effect of PPD can strain family dynamics and place additional burdens on loved ones who may be trying to provide support.

Traditional Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression

Psychotherapy: Counseling, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), can be effective in treating PPD. These therapies help individuals identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies to manage their emotions and reactions.
Medications: Antidepressant medications, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are often prescribed to treat PPD. These medications work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help improve mood.

Alternative treatments for Postpartum Depression

Support groups: Joining a support group can provide emotional assistance and practical advice from other mothers experiencing PPD. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can be empowering and comforting, offering a sense of community and understanding.
Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep can help improve mood and overall well-being. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can also help manage stress and anxiety.

New Innovative Treatments: Introducing TMS as a treatment option

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. This innovative therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression, including PPD, providing a new option for those seeking relief from depressive symptoms.

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?

TMS involves placing a coil on the scalp that generates magnetic pulses, which then stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This stimulation is thought to help normalize brain activity and alleviate depressive symptoms by targeting areas responsible for mood regulation.

The science behind TMS and its effectiveness for depression

Numerous clinical studies have shown TMS to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression, with some patients experiencing significant improvements after just a few weeks of treatment. TMS has been approved by the FDA for treating major depressive disorder, and its use in treating PPD is gaining traction due to its promising results.

Benefits of TMS for postpartum depression

TMS offers several advantages for new mothers, including a low risk of side effects, no need for sedation or anesthesia, and the ability to continue breastfeeding during treatment. This non-pharmacological approach may be particularly appealing to those who are hesitant to take medications while caring for their newborn.

Comparing TMS to Other Treatments

In the comparison of TMS to other treatments, TMS offers several benefits to consider:

Fewer side effects: TMS has fewer side effects than medications, which may cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or drowsiness. This makes it a more appealing option for those who are sensitive to medication side effects or prefer to avoid them altogether.
No drug interactions: TMS does not interact with other medications, making it a safer option for those already taking medication or concerned about potential drug interactions.
Faster results: TMS can produce noticeable improvements in mood within a few weeks, whereas psychotherapy may take several months to show significant progress. This faster response time can be particularly helpful for new moms who are eager to feel better and care for their baby.
Less time-consuming: TMS treatment sessions are typically shorter than psychotherapy appointments, making them more convenient for busy new moms. Treatment sessions usually last 20-40 minutes and are conducted daily for four to six weeks.

The TMS Treatment Process

Before starting TMS, patients will undergo a thorough evaluation to ensure they are suitable candidates for the treatment. This assessment may include a psychiatric evaluation, medical history review, and a physical examination.

During a TMS session, the patient sits comfortably in a chair while the TMS coil is placed on their scalp. They may feel a tapping sensation but should not experience pain. Each session typically lasts 20-40 minutes, and patients can return to their normal activities immediately afterward.

TMS treatment typically involves daily sessions for four to six weeks. The frequency and duration of treatments may vary based on individual needs and response to therapy. Some patients may require additional sessions or periodic maintenance treatments to maintain their improvements.

Real Stories: Postpartum Depression and TMS Successes

The transformative power of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has touched the lives of many new mothers struggling with postpartum depression (PPD). In this section, we’ll explore some inspiring testimonials from mothers who have undergone TMS treatment and discuss the impact of TMS on their postpartum depression recovery.

Sarah’s Story:

After giving birth to her first child, Sarah experienced severe PPD that left her feeling disconnected from her baby and overwhelmed by sadness. Traditional treatments like therapy and medication did not provide her with the relief she desperately sought. That’s when Sarah discovered TMS. Within a few weeks of starting treatment, she noticed significant improvements in her mood and energy levels. Sarah now cherishes her time with her baby and feels a strong bond that she feared she would never experience.

Emily’s Story:

Emily struggled with PPD for months after the birth of her second child. Her depressive symptoms made it difficult for her to care for her newborn and her older child. After hearing about TMS, Emily decided to give it a try. The treatment was a turning point for her – not only did her depressive symptoms subside, but she also regained the ability to enjoy motherhood and manage her daily responsibilities. Emily is grateful for the support of her TMS provider and the life-changing benefits of this innovative treatment.

For many women, TMS has been the key to unlocking a happier, healthier life after giving birth. The treatment has enabled them to form strong bonds with their babies, nurture their relationships with their partners, and regain control over their mental health.

Finding a TMS Provider

When searching for a TMS provider, it’s important to look for a licensed practitioner with experience in treating PPD. Researching online reviews, asking for recommendations, and consulting with healthcare professionals can help locate a reputable provider.

Ask about the provider’s experience, success rates, and any potential side effects or risks associated with TMS treatment. Inquire about the cost of treatment and whether it’s covered by insurance. This information will help you make an informed decision when choosing a TMS provider.

At Gemini TMS in Mt. Airy and Elkridge Maryland our board certified providers our highly experienced in treating postpartum depression with TMS. We offer a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plans to ensure optimal results. Contact us today to learn more about Gemini TMS and the innovative treatments we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions about TMS and Postpartum Depression

How does TMS therapy work for postpartum depression? TMS therapy targets the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which plays a role in mood regulation. By stimulating this area, TMS can help alleviate depressive symptoms and improve overall mood in mothers with postpartum depression.
Is TMS therapy safe for new mothers? Yes, TMS therapy is considered safe for new mothers. It is a non-invasive procedure with minimal side effects, making it an attractive alternative to medications that may have undesirable side effects or interactions with other drugs.
How long does TMS therapy take to show results? Many patients experience noticeable improvements in their mood within two to four weeks of starting TMS therapy. However, individual response times may vary depending on factors such as the severity of depression and the patient’s unique brain chemistry.
How many TMS sessions are required for postpartum depression? Typically, a course of TMS therapy for postpartum depression consists of 20 to 30 sessions. These sessions are usually conducted five days a week over a period of four to six weeks.
Is TMS therapy covered by insurance? Many insurance providers now cover TMS therapy for major depressive disorder, but coverage for postpartum depression may vary depending on your specific plan. It is essential to contact your insurance provider to determine coverage for TMS therapy in your case.
Can I continue breastfeeding while undergoing TMS therapy? Yes, TMS therapy does not involve any medications or substances that could be passed to your baby through breast milk. Therefore, it is safe to continue breastfeeding while receiving TMS treatment.
Can I undergo TMS therapy if I’m taking antidepressant medications? Yes, TMS therapy can be used in conjunction with antidepressant medications. In fact, some patients find that combining TMS with their existing medication regimen leads to better results.
Are there any side effects of TMS therapy? TMS therapy has minimal side effects compared to traditional treatments like medication. Some patients may experience mild discomfort, headaches, or scalp irritation at the treatment site. However, these side effects are generally mild and temporary.
How do I know if TMS therapy is right for me? If you’re struggling with postpartum depression and traditional treatments like medication and psychotherapy have not provided adequate relief, TMS therapy may be a suitable option. Consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and determine if TMS is an appropriate treatment for your specific case.

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Depression

Are You Living With Treatment Resistant Depression? Here Are Some Tips:

For many people around the world, depression becomes a part of their mental health journey.

While depression is the leading mental illness across the globe, treatment resistant depression affects around 30% of those diagnosed.

Being constantly stuck in a dark hole of depression can feel like there’s no way out. It’s hard to keep up hope that things will get better and trying something new for relief may be overwhelming. The discouragement felt when reaching out for help only to have it fail can be especially heartbreaking.

However, we want to offer some encouragement– if you have tried to relieve yourself from symptoms of depression and so far have been unsuccessful, we want to invite you to continue reading for more information and resources.

How Do You Know If You Have Treatment Resistant Depression?

Treatment resistant depression is a serious condition that can be difficult to identify because symptoms are often similar to those of regular depression.

Therefore, in order to know definitively if you or someone you care about has treatment resistant depression, it is important to know the criteria that one must meet before being formally diagnosed with this disorder.

Generally, it is determined that an individual has treatment resistant depression when they have had two different antidepressant medications take effect within 8-12 weeks and are still exhibiting symptoms of moderate to severe depressive episodes.

For treatment resistant bipolar disorder, there is no true standard criteria, however, many follow the same guidelines as treatment resistant depression.

Treatment Resistant Depression Symptoms:

Treatment resistant depression criteria can be difficult to identify as symptoms vary from person to person.

Common treatment resistant depression symptoms include:

A persistent low mood
Lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
Fatigue or low energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulty concentrating on tasks
Changes in sleep or appetite.

In some cases, people may also experience physical discomfort due to depression or thoughts of harming oneself.

If you are noticing any of these symptoms that do not improve even after trying different treatments, you may have treatment resistant depression and should discuss this with your healthcare provider.

How To Live With Treatment Resistant Depression:

Living with treatment resistant depression can be incredibly debilitating, but it’s important to keep exploring possibilities and maintaining hope.

With advances being made in the medical community and science constantly evolving, there may be solutions that weren’t previously available.

One helpful step may be to talk to an array of different doctors or specialists to discover their unique perspectives on treatment-resistant depression and develop a plan tailored for you.

By revealing new options for relief, those who are struggling with depression can continue striving towards a more positive outlook on life.

Stimulants for Treatment Resistant Depression:

Antidepressants are typically the first line of defense in treatment, however, stimulants are increasingly becoming an option for those who don’t show a positive response to antidepressants.

Stimulants for treatment resistant depression appear to be providing effective relief for this resistant form of depression, and many people with this condition are unaware that this alternative is available to them.

With the advancement of new technology and resources, patients have more options than ever before when it comes to managing their mental health conditions. Stimulants are proving to be a vital part of the equation.

Researchers are continuing to study how effective these compounds can be in treating treatment-resistant cases of depression and helping individuals regain control over their lives.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy:

Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy (or TMS Therapy) is slowly becoming renowned as one of the most effective emerging treatments for those suffering from treatment resistant depression.

This form of treatment is non-invasive, and with the help of an electromagnetic coil, focuses magnetic pulses towards certain parts of the outer layer of the brain.

This stimulation is believed to be a game changer for those who haven’t seen relief from traditional treatments such as psychiatric drugs or psychotherapy.

It has been helping sufferers all around the world find respite from their symptoms by stimulating neuron growth, balancing chemical levels in the brain and strengthening neural pathways that are affected in people struggling with depression.

With research backing up that TMS Therapy could be a literal life saver, it only continues to grow as one of the best hopes for those living with this mental illness.

Lifestyle Changes:

With treatment resistant depression on the rise, it is important to consider the role that lifestyle changes could play in giving individuals some relief. While many people ask their doctors for a magic cure, they often don’t take into account how their daily habits may be influencing their moods.

Recent research suggests that our gut health, amount of exposure to sunlight and eating habits can all be linked to depression, and making small changes in each of these areas can create a cumulative effect which could provide significant relief to those suffering from treatment-resistant depression.

It is important to note that these lifestyle changes alone won’t necessarily cure the symptoms of this condition – but they can certainly help by providing enough relief for traditional therapies to have greater effect.

Don’t Let Treatment Resistant Depression Keep You Stuck:

Treatment resistant depression can be a frustrating battle, however there is cause for hope.

In recent years medical science has advanced rapidly and many new treatments are being developed. Stimulants for depression and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) are two examples of this; both of which were boundary pushing treatments just a few years back.

Combining these treatments with lifestyle improvements such as diet, exercise, and sleep can result in a greatly improved condition.

Don’t give up hope – doctors and therapists specializing in treatment resistant depression are dedicated to finding solutions for you, so take the steps to seek help today.

Resources:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-for-depression-2018022313335

https://www.webmd.com/depression/features/advances-treatment-resistant-depression

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/treatment-resistant-depression/art-20044324

https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/default.htm

https://www.healthyplace.com/depression/depression-treatment/do-stimulants-work-for-treatment-resistant-depression

Anxiety, Depression

Decoding Neurohealth and Its Relation To TMS Treatment

You may have heard of transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, before. It’s a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain.

But what you may not know is that TMS is rooted in neuroscience—the study of the nervous system. In this post, we’ll explore what neuro health is and how transcranial magnetic stimulation can help improve not only your mental health but your entire life.

cropped view of senior man playing with puzzles

What is Neurohealth?

Neurohealth is a branch of neuroscience that focuses on the relationship between the nervous system and full-body health.

Neuroscientists who study neurohealth aim to understand how the nervous system affects our physical and mental health, and vice versa. By understanding this relationship, we can develop new treatments for conditions like depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and more.

To put it simply, neuro health is a state of well-being that is achieved by maintaining healthy brain function. This can be accomplished through lifestyle choices, diet, exercise, and mental stimulation.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:

Lifestyle Choices

Your lifestyle choices have a direct impact on your neuro health. Things like smoking, drinking, and drug use can all lead to negative consequences for your brain health. Additionally, chronic stress can also take a toll on your cognitive function. On the other hand, things like getting enough sleep, managing stress, and socializing can all help improve your neuro health.

Diet

What you eat also plays a role in your neuro health. A balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is ideal. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for maintaining healthy brain function. You can get omega-3s by eating fish or taking a supplement.

Exercise

Exercise is not only good for your physical health but it’s also good for your brain health. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps to reduce inflammation. It also helps to reduce stress and improve sleep quality. All of these things are important for maintaining a healthy brain.

Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation is also important for keeping your brain healthy. Activities like reading, puzzles, and crosswords can help to keep your mind sharp as you age. Challenging yourself with new activities can also help to keep your mind active and engaged.

What Does TMS Do?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain. During a TMS session, a coil is placed against your head near your forehead. The coil produces brief magnetic pulses that pass through your skull and stimulate the neurons in your brain.

How Does TMS Work?

TMS is thought to work by sending electrical currents directly into targeted brain regions. These currents then adjust the activity of neurons in the area, which can lead to changes in brain function.

For example, TMS has been shown to increase blood flow and neuronal activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain responsible for higher-order cognition and executive function.

TMS is usually given five times per week for four to six weeks. Each session lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, during which time the patient sits in a chair and wears a helmet that delivers the magnetic pulses. There is no anesthesia required and most people report no side effects.

While TMS is most commonly used to treat depression, it has also been shown to be effective for a variety of other conditions, such as OCD, PTSD, and chronic pain. In addition, TMS is being investigated as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease and stroke.

How does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Tie Into Neuroscience?

As we mentioned before, TMS is rooted in neuroscience—the study of the nervous system. By understanding how the nervous system works, we can develop new and effective treatments for conditions like depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and more.

In other words, transcranial magnetic stimulation is a neuroscientific approach to treating mental health conditions. The goal of TMS is to stimulate the neurons in the brain in order to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of mental illness. Through research, TMS has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

If you’re interested in learning more about neuro health and TMS, please contact us today.

How Can TMS Help My Mental Health?

TMS is a breakthrough treatment for depression because it offers hope to people who have not been able to find relief from other treatments, such as therapy and medication. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, TMS has been found to be an effective treatment for major depression that has not responded well to other treatments.

The electrical pulses delivered through TMS have the ability to directly target specific areas of the brain in ways other treatments simply can’t. Many patients find relief from their depressive symptoms within the first few sessions.

Researchers are also studying whether TMS can be used to treat other conditions like anxiety, OCD, PTSD, migraines, and more. While more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that TMS may be an effective treatment for these conditions as well.

Neurohealth and TMS Go Hand In Hand:

In conclusion, neurohealth is a branch of neuroscience that focuses on the relationship between the nervous system and health. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain and it is rooted in neuroscience.

TMS is FDA-approved to treat depression that has not responded to other treatments like medication or therapy but researchers are also studying whether TMS can be used to treat other conditions like anxiety, OCD, PTSD, migraines, etc.

If you want to learn more about neuro health or TMS please contact our TMS Doctor today at 301-363-1063.

Resources:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1024oO_mxcFgE3Gsuo8ZogD-jnoEi_ixEWS_3tayc7gg/edit?usp=sharing

What is Neurohealth?

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation/about/pac-20384625

Anxiety, Depression

Is There a Link Between Anxiety and Depression?

When you think of anxiety, what comes to mind? Probably something related to a heightened state of arousal (due to adrenaline pumping through the body).

Now, when you think of depression, what comes to mind? Depression symptoms often look like fatigue, burnout, or an overall state of apathy.

Despite anxiety disorders being considered a ‘high energy’ condition, and major depressive disorders being considered a ‘low energy’ condition, these two mental illnesses actually have quite a bit in common.

If you feel as though you’re experiencing both, you might be overwhelmed by your treatment options.

Let’s talk about the relationship between depression and anxiety and what you can do to gain control over your mental health.

What Causes Anxiety?

There are various forms of anxiety however the most common and broad diagnosis given to a majority of patients is generalized anxiety disorder.

This type of anxiety is characterized by a chronic state of fear, worry, or stress about everyday life. In some cases, their anxiety may be triggered by seemingly nothing at all!

Since every person’s experience with anxiety is unique, it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what causes it. However, there are a few known reasons anxiety can occur:

Past or Childhood Experiences:

Childhood is an extremely sensitive stage in life, and going through any sort of trauma during these developmental years can follow you into adulthood. Many people that suffer from anxiety have a history of physical or emotional abuse, neglect, bullying, or racism.

Current Situations:

Ongoing problems in life can also cause anxiety to form. These events can include (but are not limited to):

Marriage
Divorce
Exhaustion
Burnout
Stress
Sudden change
Financial problems
Losing someone
Abuse

Other Causes:

Here are other common reasons anxiety may begin to take over:

Sleeping difficulties
Other mental illnesses (such as depression)
Genetics
Alcohol or drug use
Diet
Certain medications
Physical health problems

What Causes Depression?

Depression is known as a chronic low mood made up of feelings of hopelessness, emptiness, frustration, guilt, and despair. Many people that experience depression may not know exactly why they feel depressed, they just know they do.

Depression can make an individual lose sudden interest in things that once made them happy, while simultaneously avoiding social events and gatherings that may have previously attended.

Thankfully, much research has been done on why depression occurs. These factors can vary greatly from person to person, and some people have more than one. Just with anxiety, depression is unique from person to person however common similarities remain.

Past or Childhood Experiences:

Early trauma can become integrated into our subconscious, making us view the world in a cynical, negative manner even if we don’t remember the event as an adult.

Experiences of abuse, neglect, assault, or unstable family life can all contribute to depression later on.

In addition, children that experience many smaller challenges in life are more at risk for developing depression than children who only experience one or two stressful events.

Current Situations:

Large changes in day-to-day life as an adult can make you feel completely overwhelmed, and cause your body to shut down. This can cause feelings of depression and hopelessness.

Circumstances include:

Losing a job
Unemployment
Financial burdens
Death of a loved one
Marriage
Divorce
Abuse or assault
Bullying

Other Causes:

Just like anxiety, there are other reasons depression may occur such as:

Genetics
Other mental illnesses (such as anxiety)
Physical health problems
Diet
Sleeping difficulties
Alcohol and substance use

Looking At The Connection Between Anxiety and Depression:

Now that we’re clear on what causes anxiety and depression we can see a direct connection between the two. These two mental illnesses, while anxiety and depressive symptoms differ - have the same causes. This is why depression and anxiety often occur simultaneously in many patients.

The relationship between anxiety and depression is cyclical. This means one can easily cause the other.

Anxiety disorders cause more than just fear and worry. They can cause an internal battle of low self-esteem, disgust, and negative thoughts. All of these can trigger depression.

Nevertheless, depression is more than just feeling sad. It can bring about feelings of losing control, restlessness, or irritability. All of these can increase stress and cause anxiety to form.

This cyclical relationship is even more prominent if either disorder is left untreated. Unmanaged anxiety can turn into major depressive disorder as each day seems like a never ending internal battle. On the other hand, unmanaged depression can manifest into anxiety as an individual may begin to feel completely overwhelmed with day to day life.

Are Medications The Best Treatment For Anxiety and Depression?

Many people will tell you to turn to medication for your anxiety and depression. While medications have been used for decades with success, there are many harmful side effects that can occur.

Some of the most common include:

Shakiness
Feeling nauseous
Indigestion
Diarrhea or constipation
Loss of appetite
Weight loss or weight gain
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Dry mouth
Dependence

If you feel as though you need medication it’s often highly encouraged to engage in another form of treatment such as therapy. While medications may work in the short term, they aren’t a long-term solution nor do they get to the root of the problem.

In addition, antidepressant medications may not be recommended for use with other prescriptions, while pregnant, or while breastfeeding. This means you may find yourself having to quit cold turkey at some point in the future, which can lead to even more problems.

What Is The Best Treatment Option For Anxiety and Depression?

Here at Gemini TMS we desire to heal your mind from the inside out. Instead of pushing potentially harmful medications and sending you on your way, we work to provide relief from anxiety and depression without risky side-effects.

But how do we do this?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is how. TMS is an FDA-approved, long-lasting treatment option for patients with both anxiety and/or depression. It’s a non-invasive way to target the centers of the brain associated with both mood and mental illness.

TMS is an excellent option for residents of Elkridge, Maryland who feel as though their anxiety and depression have become unresponsive to other forms of treatment, or who are searching for an alternative to traditional antidepressant medication.

If you struggle with the debilitating impact anxiety and depression have on your life, TMS may be the key. Finding freedom and healing from mental illness is possible. In fact, it just may be the best decision you ever make.

Sources:

Depression

How Depression Affects Work Performance

Depression is a serious and sometimes debilitating mental health condition that can affect nearly every aspect of an individual’s life, especially when left untreated. In fact, worldwide, depression is a leading cause for disability–and it’s a common condition. The National Alliance on Mental Alliance reports that one in five adults experiences depression each year. Major depression can impact a person’s personal life, but also their work performance and job. Depression or anxiety that persists for more than two weeks is likely cause for clinical concern. Knowing how major depressive disorder affects work will help you identify the signs, and hopefully, prompt you to seek treatment.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder that negatively affects how you’re feeling, how you think, and even how you behave. Classified among mental health healthcare professionals as a mood disorder, depression can occur in various forms such as major depressive disorder, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. Although each condition involves its own unique characteristics, they generally share common signs and symptoms that can include:

Feeling persistently sad or hopeless
Feeling irritable
Feeling helpless and overwhelmed
Having difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
Reduced energy level
Feeling unmotivated
Experiencing changes in appetite
Having difficulty concentrating
Losing interest in formerly enjoyed activities
Experiencing physical symptoms like headache or digestive problems
Experiencing suicidal thoughts

What Is Anxiety?

Like depression, clinical anxiety can also negatively impact a person’s life. Anxiety involves persistent worry, fear, and even panic and may occur on its own or with another mood disorder like depression. Signs and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder include:

Feeling nervous or tense
Increased heart rate
Catastrophizing thoughts
Feelings of impending doom or panic
Increased sweating and trembling
Trouble focusing / concentrating
Sleep problems
Digestive problems

How Does Depression and Anxiety Affect Your Ability to Work?

A person who experiences depression or anxiety cannot simply turn off their symptoms when they clock in for work. The symptoms accompany them wherever they go. A person feeling depressed and unmotivated doesn’t just experience a ‘bad day’ on the job. They experience a string of bad days that not only takes a further toll on their mental health, but also affects their work performance and, often, even their work colleagues. Anxiety, too, can negatively impact a person’s work performance. Here are just a few ways that these mental health disorders can affect work:

Safety

Sleep disturbance, sometimes severe, are common symptoms of depression and anxiety. Without adequate sleep, especially for days on end, a person will suffer from reduced focus and even coordination. That can lead to seriously unsafe conditions if the individual is tasked to operate machinery or work in a potentially hazardous setting (i.e. work with chemicals, work at heights, etc…).

Missed Deadlines

A person who is depressed or anxious finds it hard to concentrate. That often manifests as reduced productivity. It may take an employee longer to complete tasks than usual or they may begin to miss deadlines because they can’t focus long enough to get their work completed on schedule.

Increased Mistakes

When a person is not able to focus well, they’re apt to make more mistakes. A worker with anxiety and depression can’t focus fully on their job or the task at hand because they’re mind is caught up in the symptoms of their condition. While small mistakes might be overlooked for a while, they can add up and lead to poor work performance. Serious mistakes can even jeopardize a person’s employment.

Problems with Other Employees

Depression and anxiety can cause a person to experience skewed perceptions as well as increased irritability. This can lead to miscommunication and even unpleasant exchances that affect the culture of the work environment. A depressed or anxious person may find it impossible to hide their negativity from coworkers, which can also negatively impact the work setting and work relationships.

Absenteeism

People suffering with depression and anxiety may experience symptoms that make it difficult to go to work. The emotional upheaval and associated symptoms may make it hard for them to commute to work or get through the day. Anxiety and depression can manifest in physical symptoms just as stress can. It’s not uncommon for sufferers to experience severe headaches and gastrointestinal complaints that require them to use sick time.

What Does Depression and Anxiety Look Like to Coworkers?

Employers and other employees are not always likely to understand when someone they work with is suffering from depression or anxiety. They aren’t mental health specialists, so their impression of a depressed or anxious employee might include some of these perceptions:

Employee procrastinates too much
Employee is lazy, undermotivated, or doesn’t care about their work/job
Employee is unsocial or withdrawn
Employee doesn’t seem to care about their appearance
Employee lacks confidence
Employee has poor communication skills
Employee is prone to accidents, missed deadlines, tardiness

Of course, when a suffering individual perceives that their coworkers or management feel these ways about them, it only increases their feelings of depression and anxiety, causing more exacerbation. Long work hours and depression can result in a worsening of symptoms too.

Employees, Mental Health, and Treatment

Unfortunately, many employees are apprehensive about discussing their mental health condition in the workplace. They may fear the stigma associated with these conditions and worry that their mental health will affect their job in some way. While there are protections for employees with health conditions, including mental health conditions, many people aren’t aware of them or still fear repercussions in the workplace.

Employees like other citizens have a right to their medical privacy. They should also remember that their condition warrants treatment. In fact, without treatment, their condition can worsen. Today’s treatments for depression and anxiety are diverse and highly effective. Once conditions like depression and anxiety are well managed, their impact on an individual’s work performance will be reduced–even eliminated.

TMS Treatment Elkridge, MD

If you’ve been diagnosed with depression or anxiety, you may be an ideal candidate for TMS therapy in Maryland. Gemini TMS specializes in TMS therapy and has helped thousands of sufferers successfully manage their condition and its symptoms. Standard treatments like medications don’t work for everyone suffering from these mental health conditions. Moreover, many patients find the side effects associated with some medications to be problematic. Fortunately, the medical community has developed other innovative methods like TMS for treating anxiety and depression.

What Is TMS?

TMS stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation. According to Mayo Clinic, TMS is a noninvasive procedure used to treat depression and anxiety, particularly when other treatments have been ineffective or have caused discomfort for the patient. It’s also an FDA-approved treatment and requires no anesthesia. During TMS treatment, practitioners use magnetic fields to stimulate the brain’s nerve cells in order to alleviate unpleasant mental health symptoms.

During TMS treatment sessions, an electromagnetic coil is placed near the patient’s head or scalp and delivers electromagnetic pulses to the part of the brain that controls mood. While researchers are still studying just how these pulses are able to achieve positive results, they do know that the signals ‘reactivate’ brain activity that had been less active before treatment.

TMS therapy is painless and is regarded as a safe procedure. Most patients tolerate the procedure with ease. Some may experience side effects, including headache or some scalp discomfort. Procedures tend to last for about 40 minutes. It typically takes a couple weeks before patients notice improvement in their condition. TMS may also accompany other forms of treatment such as psychiatric therapy.

How Gemini TMS Can Help You

Often, people who have clinical anxiety and depression don’t experience relief without some type of treatment. Patients who visit Gemini TMS for treatment have often found other forms of treatment ineffective or problematic in some way. Patients can visit us and our team of mental health experts can evaluate their condition to determine if TMS is an ideal treatment for their needs.

If TMS is right for you, we can schedule your therapy, which will take place in sessions over the course of several weeks. Most patients begin to feel improvement early on in the TMS treatment process. We always encourage patients to tell us if they have any side effects like headache or lightheadedness. Again, these are common symptoms associated with the treatment but they generally subside.

As an FDA-approved treatment for depression and anxiety, TMS treatments qualify for medical insurance plan coverage. If you have questions about your insurance coverage and the costs of treatment, be sure to get in touch with Gemini TMS to get answers you need.

If you are experiencing depression or anxiety, contact Gemini TMS to learn more about its TMS treatments and how they can help you manage your condition to prevent it from undermining your personal and professional life. It’s never a good idea to put off mental health treatment. At Gemini TMS, you can get the medical support and care you need to manage your depression or anxiety symptoms to experience profound relief. Call to schedule an evaluation today.

A women suffering from depression side effects

Anxiety, Depression

Side Effects Of TMS Therapy

An estimated 21 million adults in the United States suffered from at least one major depressive episode in 2020.

While many are prescribed antidepressants, there are alternative treatments with promising results gaining popularity among sufferers.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an alternative brain stimulation therapy. It can improve symptoms of neurological or mental health disorders, including major depression.

But what are the side effects of TMS therapy?

Learn more about TMS therapy's side effects before weighing up your treatment options.

What Is TMS Therapy?

TMS therapy is a noninvasive procedure. The technique uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in a specific brain area. It is a treatment designed for people with severe depression who haven't had any success on antidepressant medication.

While TMS has shown great promise with major depression, it is also a possible treatment for schizophrenia, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In 2008, the FDA cleared TMS therapy for treatment in depressed adult patients when antidepressants have failed to work. Although it was developed in the 1980s, relatively few know about TMS's advantages and disadvantages.

How Does TMS Work?

TMS works by treating the underactive areas of the brain that are responsible for your mood with mild magnetic pulses that stimulate cells and improve brain function.

These pulses encourage the cells to re-activate and release mood-enhancing signals throughout the body, relieving stubborn depression symptoms.

During a TMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed against the patient's head. The coil directs a concentrated magnetic field to pre-determined mapped areas on the brain. It encourages the brain to produce serotonin improving mood and relieving symptoms.

As the magnetic pulses are delivered into the brain, it will make a clicking noise, and a patient may also feel a tap on their head with each pulse. This is entirely normal. While earplugs are provided, many choose to listen to music through earbuds or headphones.

Treatment sessions vary in length. This typically depends on the number of pulses delivered. For most patients, treatment lasts around 40 minutes. Once finished, patients are welcome to resume their everyday duties.

Is TMS Therapy Safe?

Yes. Unlike other invasive treatments, TMS does not require surgery and is considered safe and well-tolerated.

Some of the benefits of TMS include:

Noninvasive
FDA-approved
Promote improved sleep
Elevate mood
Provide long-lasting relief from depression
It does not require anesthesia
Improve mild anxiety

Many patients who receive TMS therapy report several improvements in their depression symptoms. They include an elevated mood, decreased feelings of sadness, and a renewed interest in hobbies.

Side Effects of TMS Therapy

As with any treatment, it's important to understand the pros and cons. While the negative side effects of TMS therapy are minimal, knowing what to expect will help you decide whether to go ahead with the treatment.

The following are possible transcranial magnetic stimulation side effects that patients may experience during treatment.

Mild Headaches

Mild headaches are one of the most common side effects patients report when undergoing TMS therapy. Headaches during and after TMS are not uncommon and are typically resolved with over-the-counter pain relief. Patients are more likely to experience headaches during their first session, but the frequency decreases with subsequent sessions.

Scalp Pain

While the pulses are emitting, patients may experience mild scalp irritation. This is caused by the light tapping sensation on the scalp. The few who experience scalp pain often find it improves over time as they get used to the tapping sensation.

Neck Pain

It is not uncommon for patients to experience mild neck pain during and after their treatment session. The pain tends to diminish throughout treatment. However, adjustments can be made in coil repositioning and stimulation settings to reduce discomfort.

Tingling

Most TMS patients experience no side effects, but some report tingling sensations in the jaw, face, and scalp. However, most find the tingling sensation decreases within a few weeks after the completion of treatment.

Facial Twitching

Because TMS utilizes magnetic waves to stimulate peripheral nerves, patients may experience mild facial twitching. While it may feel odd, it is normal to feel your face twitch during treatment sessions. They are harmless and nothing to feel concerned about.

Low Risk of Seizures

The vast majority of patients who undergo TMS will not experience seizures. However, there are several factors that can impact the probability of seizures.

Factors include patients with:

Epilepsy
Traumatic brain injury
Excessive alcohol use
Sleep deprivation

Healthy patients with no preexisting conditions have an extremely low risk of experiencing seizures due to TMS therapy. A recent study found that the risk of TMS-related seizures is <1% overall.

Time Commitment

Depending on how you respond to the treatment, TMS therapy can last for about 4 to 6 weeks with five sessions per week. This requires a significant time commitment that not everyone can achieve.

However, TMS therapy does not require sedation that can interfere with the ability to work or drive. Once your session is over, you can resume normal activities.

Depression Medication Side Effects

Antidepressants are the most common medicine prescribed to treat major depression. They aim to correct chemical imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Unfortunately, antidepressants can cause unpleasant side effects. The following are possible antidepressant side effects that patients may experience.

Nausea

Nause is a common side effect during the first few weeks of taking the medication. As your serotonin levels increase, the stimulation can cause GI-related symptoms such as nausea. Patients may also experience nausea when treatment is stopped too suddenly.

Weight Gain

Weight gain is an unpleasant side effect of nearly all antidepressant medications. Some patients are unfazed by weight gain as it outweighs their symptoms of depression. While others, especially younger individuals, are more affected.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a typical side effect of many antidepressants. That's some because antidepressants have an inhibiting influence on saliva production. This may lead to a dry mouth.

Many patients find sipping water regularly, and chewing gum are strategies to reduce dry mouth.

Blurred Vision

Blurred vision is not an uncommon side effect for patients taking antidepressants. Select SSRIs such as Prozac and Lexapro can affect the muscle function of the eye and make it difficult to focus on objects. Depression medications may also increase the risk of developing cataracts in order patients.

Serotonin Syndrome

While uncommon, serotonin syndrome is a severe set of side effects linked to SSRIs and SNRIs. It occurs when your serotonin levels are too high. Symptoms may include:

Confusion
Agitation
Muscle twitching
Sweating
Shivering

More severe serotonin syndrome symptoms include seizures, arrhythmia, and unconsciousness.

Suicidal Thoughts

The ultimate goal of antidepressants is to reduce the symptoms of depression. In rare cases, patients may experience suicidal thoughts and a desire to self-harm. This typically occurs in patients under 25.

Those who experience suicidal thoughts on depression medication should reconsider their treatment options.

Who Cannot Get TMS Therapy?

TMS therapy isn't for everyone. While it is considered safe, some people should avoid this treatment.

You cannot get TMS therapy if you have the following:

Metal devices or objects implanted in your head
History of epilepsy or seizures
History of substance abuse
Facial tattoos with metallic ink
Stents in the neck or brain

Since TMS has a strong magnet, patients with any form of a metal non-removable head implant are advised not to pursue this treatment. The magnet can make implants move or heat up, causing severe head trauma.

Who Will Benefit From TMS Therapy?

TMS doesn't work for everyone. But when it does, symptoms of depression can improve significantly. In some cases, they may go away completely.

To benefit from TMS therapy, you will need to be the right candidate. You may be able to have TMS therapy if you:

Have a major depressive disorder diagnosis
Traditional medications have failed to work
You're not satisfied with the results from traditional medication
You can't tolerate the side effects of medication
You have an illness that restricts what types of medication you can take
Your depression continues to interfere with your day-to-day life

During your initial consultation, your physician will review your history and conduct an assessment to determine if TMS therapy is right for you.

Invigorate Your Life With TMS Therapy

When you consider the side effects of TMS therapy, it's important to weigh them up against other forms of treatment, including antidepressants.

At the end of the day, TMS has advantages and disadvantages. While antidepressants may provide short-term relief, some people need to take them long-term to experience continued success. Coming off can also cause withdrawal and set you up for a relapse.

On the other hand, TMS therapy works relatively quickly with a high success rate for treating depression. While you may experience symptoms, these are generally mild and will go away after several treatments.

If you're suffering from severe and debilitating depression, TMS therapy may be right for you.

Contact of TMS office in Mt. Airy Maryland to schedule a consultation today.

Anxiety, Depression

Alternative Treatments for Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are some of the most common types of mental health disorders found in people today. Approximately 40 million US adults have an anxiety disorder and an estimated 16.1 million US adults are struggling with depression, with it being the number one cause of disability. Depression and anxiety are typically treated with medication or a type of therapy or a combination of both. However, if these methods have not worked for you then there are alternative treatments that you can try.

Overview of Depression and Anxiety

Major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression, is a mood disorder that is recognized for causing a persistent feeling of sadness and a potential loss of interest in the things a person previously took joy in. Depression can cause several emotional and physical problems and can make it difficult for people to function in their daily lives, sometimes even leaving them bedridden. Aside from sadness, depression symptoms can manifest as guilt, hopelessness, apathy, irritability, restlessness, loss of interest in activities, insomnia, loss of appetite, inability to focus, and fatigue.

Anxiety is a normal response to stressful situations, such as public speaking, but the body can get trapped in the stress cycle and develop an anxiety problem. Anxiety is part of the body’s fight or flight response to what it perceives as danger and has a physiological effect as a coping mechanism. Anxiety can leave a person with intense and excessive levels of worry, rapid breathing, sweating, and feeling restless and tense. Anxiety attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense anxiety, can be a common occurrence. Anxiety can be a serious disruption to a person’s life and daily activities.

Many people can experience anxiety and depression together and both conditions usually require treatment for a person to get back to the sense of normalcy that they had before.

What are Alternative Treatments?

In cases of depression and anxiety, the standard practice is to prescribe antidepressants and psychotherapy. Alternative therapies for depression and anxiety are not considered to be first-line treatments and are usually referred to when a person does not respond well to medication and/or therapy. The good news is that there are several alternative treatments that have been shown to have a positive effect on people with depression and/or anxiety. Some alternative treatments have been FDA-approved specifically for treating depression.

Alternative Treatments for Depression and Anxiety

Usually, those with depression and anxiety are treated with a classification of medications known as antidepressants. One of the most common complaints of these medicines is the side effects and the way they leave a person feeling. Your depression and/or anxiety may also not respond well to an antidepressant. If that is the case, and talk therapy has not been effective either, then here are alternative treatments that you might look into.

IV Ketamine Infusion

Intravenous ketamine infusion therapy is a groundbreaking treatment used for a variety of psychiatric disorders and chronic pain conditions. Ketamine has been around for decades and was originally used as an anesthetic drug for soldiers around the 1960’s-1970’s. Now, IV ketamine infusions, that have removed the anesthetic component, have been found to be able to help relieve symptoms in severe cases of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The ketamine infusion is administered through a slow IV (a needle inserted into the vein) drip to deliver quick and long-lasting relief. The ketamine works by providing therapeutic effects to the areas of the brain that control mood. During the treatment, the patient is allowed to sit and relax while the medicine is slowly flowing into the body through the IV, and a sense of calm should kick in during treatment. Patients may notice an immediate difference, but it usually takes a few hours for the medicine to fully take effect and have a true, noticeable difference. The IV ketamine infusion is not considered a cure for depression or anxiety and will require further infusions on an as-needed basis to maintain the effects. However, it is not like typical antidepressants that have to be taken every day.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Also known as TMS therapy, this treatment is a non-pharmacological option for depression and anxiety and is FDA-approved for depression. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a noninvasive procedure that has been shown to be highly effective for treatment-resistant depression and some evidence supports its efficacy for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. TMS effects on anxiety does vary depending on a patient’s exact condition and the level of magnetic pulses, along with other factors.

TMS works by having an electromagnetic coil or cap placed on a patients head, near the forehead, which generates a magnetic field to create a small electrical current that pulses through the scalp. These electromagnetic pulses target a specific area of the brain that controls mood, which is mapped out before the procedure begins, and stimulates the nerve cells. This increases activity in that part of the brain, which is linked to contributing to depression, so that mood is lifted and depression symptoms cease. If anxiety is present along with depression, then anxiety symptoms should also improve with the depression symptoms.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation

While vagus nerve stimulation is primarily used to treat epilepsy, it was approved in 2005 by the FDA for treatment resistant depression. This is a surgical procedure where a pacemaker-like device is implanted in the body and is connected to a wire that threaded along the vagus nerve. The device send electrical pulses along the nerve to stimulate it for a set period of time. The stimulation seems to change brain waves and depression symptoms can be relieved.

Stellate Ganglion Blocks

This treatment is often used for chronic pain, but is also a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and related depression and anxiety symptoms. Stellate ganglion blocks, or SGB, is an injection of local anesthesia that is administered to the ganglion nerves. The ganglion nerves are part of the sympathetic nervous system, which are nerves that supply the arms and the face. The blocks disrupt sympathetic activity along these stellate ganglion and turns off the body’s fight or flight response, which allows the brain time to reset and escape the stress cycle so that PTSD and comorbid anxiety and depression symptoms cease.

This procedure uses fluoroscopy, which uses x-rays to create a real-time video, to help guide the healthcare professional so they will give the injection in the correct place. The effects should kick in within a half hour and the stellate ganglion becomes numb. The whole procedure takes maybe 15 minutes. SGB can help lower stress hormones from being produced, which contributes to anxiety and depression.

Spravato

This is a brand name medication that is FDA approved to treat major depressive disorder and treatment resistant depression. Spravato contains esketamine and comes as a nasal spray. The dosage and how often it should be used will be determined by the prescribing doctor.

All of these treatments are painless and considered to be safe to use. If you have treatment resistant depression and/or anxiety then talk to your doctor about any possible alternative treatments that may work for you.

Our office at Gemini Health is happy to be offering alternative treatments for depression and anxiety, including stellate ganglion blocks as a new service, and want to work with you to help you get back to leading a happy, fulfilling life. We understand how important emotional health is and strive to assist you in achieving your goals. Our partnering office at Pain and Spine Specialists, who we collaborate with to provide patients chronic pain management, is also happy to work with you to give you access to these treatments.

Looking for Therapy Options?

If you are looking for therapy services for mental health concerns, or if you have any questions regarding our services, call Gemini Health today! Our highly skilled mental health professionals are experienced in treating various mental and behavioral health concerns. They offer both individual and group therapy. Plus, there are no wait times to join groups. Call (301) 363-1063 and speak to our staff to schedule your appointment today!

Depression

How Does Depression Feel?

Depression can be incredibly difficult to live with. It can be so severe that a person can struggle to function in their daily life and complete regular tasks, as they might have been able to do before. It can even leave a person bed-ridden, as they find it impossible to get up and lack the energy to do much else. Depression is characterized by prolonged feelings of sadness and depressed mood. For depression to be diagnosed a person must present symptoms for at least two weeks and have changes in levels of functioning.

The World Health Organization estimates that 3.8% of the global population is affected with depression, including 5% among adults and 5.7% among adults older than 60 years. It is believed that approximately 280 million people of all ages struggle with depression.

There is often a misconception that those struggling with depression are just simply sad and this is not true. While sadness is a part of depression, there is a deep persistent feeling of unhappiness and emptiness that can become all-consuming for a person to the point that there is an impairment in functioning. Occasional sadness is a normal aspect of the human experience, but depression has a more significant impact and changes the way people feel, think, and act in their daily routine.

Understanding what depression is and what it feels like can be an important first step to recognizing you have it and lead you to take steps to seek help in overcoming your depression.

What Is Depression?

Major Depressive Disorder is a serious medical condition that severely affects a person’s life in multiple way. Major Depressive Disorder is classified as a mood disorder and is the most common form of depression that people experience. Depression and depression symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the person.

As stated, depression can seep into all parts of a person’s life, to the point that it affects them at work, in school, in their social life, or in their family life. It can also lead to a range of physical health problems and drive a person to suicide at its most severe point, with a twenty percent lifetime risk of suicide among those with untreated depressive disorder.

When it comes to the causes of depression, the research suggests that it is a culmination of biological, genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Depression can also be triggered by sudden or long-term, adverse life events. These events could be things like loss of a job, loss of a loved one, abuse, and other traumatic situations.

Depression is not something that people can just “get over,” and it often requires professional help. When a medical professional or mental health specialist treats someone with depression, they will usually use two conventional methods. These methods are the combination of therapy and antidepressants. The most common form of therapy for depression is cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is a type of talk therapy that focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors.

Is Anger a Sign of Depression

While people who are not familiar with the symptoms of anger may not associate anger with depression, it can definitely be a sign of depression. Those who have been deeply, negatively impacted by depression and the triggers of their depression can harbor significant anger. People can be angry at the world or angry at themselves for having these feelings and not being able to function at the level they may have been at before they became depressed.

This anger can cause people to lash out at others, including loved ones who may be trying to help. Uncontrollable or maladaptive anger can be very destructive and alienate others, which can make the person with depression feel even worse. It is thought that this kind of anger is linked to the imbalance of neurochemicals in the brain that regulate emotions. Anger with depression can manifest as irritability, hostility, and intense anger that seems to come out of nowhere all of a sudden. Therapy can help people learn how to better manage this anger.

Is Insomnia A Sign of Depression

Unfortunately, depression does have a negative impact on sleep, both in terms of the amount of sleep and quality of sleep a person gets. About 75% of those with depression report having trouble being able to fall asleep and/or stay asleep. Depression can also be triggered because people are having a hard time getting enough sleep and this leads to a decrease in ability to regulate emotions.

Those with depression can often ruminate about things that may be causing them stress in their daily life and it may prevent them from falling asleep or cause them to wake up more frequently during the course of the night. If you are experiencing sleep problems, related to depression, then talk to your doctor, as there may be treatment options. Keep in mind these options may not be a long-term solution and it is important to seek help for the root cause of the sleep problems. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is shown to have a significant positive impact on depression related sleep problems.

Is Loss of Appetite a Sign of Depression

Some people who have depression also lose their appetite and find food less appealing. Significant weight loss can happen in those with depression because they have lost interest in eating. It can also be hard for anyone with depression to eat if they are too tired to cook an entire meal and it seems easier to skip the meal completely. Of course, not eating also leads to low energy levels and it creates a cycle that is difficult to break.

Depression is also often accompanied with anxiety, which can cause gastrointestinal issues and may leave a person with little desire to eat. While it can be difficult to eat with depression, it is important to try to eat a balanced diet. Having a balanced diet can help with some depression symptoms.

Is Sleeping A Sign of Depression

Excessive sleeping is highly common in those with depression, as the disorder often leaves people feeling constantly tired and drained of energy. Even when a person has gotten enough hours of sleep, they may continue feeling tired. This is how people with depression can end up bed-ridden, as they lack any energy to get up, or unable to perform daily activities like showering, getting dressed, going to work, or doing household chores. Oversleeping is a symptom in about 15% of people who are diagnosed with depression. It is important to note that other sleeping problems, like sleep apnea, can be comorbid with depression and is not a direct result of the depression. Disruptions or delays in the circadian rhythm are linked to depressed people sleeping past their alarm and struggling to wake up in the morning.

How to Ask for Help with Depression

Depression is not something to be ashamed of or embarrassed by and you deserve to be able to live a full and happy life. The stigma around mental health problems is thankfully starting to shrink, as more and more people are having conversations about the topic and many notable people have come out with their own stories about their struggles with mental health. If you have been struggling with depression and are ready to seek help but are not sure where to start then please do not worry, we are here to help.

If you are struggling to ask for help then a good place to start is by talking with a trusted friend or loved one, as they can be a great source of support. It makes a real difference having someone simply listen to you, encourage you to take care of yourself, and keep you company if you are feeling lonely. The internet is also a valuable source to be able to find a therapist or a hotline number to call and talk to someone. Seeking professional help is an important step in the process to overcoming depression. Medical professionals can help you access antidepressants, or even offer a referral to a psychologist, therapist, or licensed counselor. Finding a therapist that is the right fit for you can have one of the greatest impacts, as they can help you develop the life skills and tools that you need.

Need Help For Depression?

If you are looking for therapy services for mental health concerns, or if you have any questions regarding our services, call Gemini TMS today! Our highly skilled mental health professionals are experienced in treating various mental and behavioral health concerns. They offer both individual and group therapy. Plus, there are no wait times to join groups. Call (301) 363-1063 and speak to our staff to schedule your appointment today!

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