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.
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.
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.
Depression is one of the leading causes of morbidity worldwide, with nearly 300 million people affected globally. While antidepressant medication and psychotherapy remain the go-to treatments for depression, they are not always effective for everyone. However, there exists an alternative for individuals with treatment-resistant depression: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy. This post aims to provide patients suffering from depression with a glimpse into patient experiences and outcomes.
TMS therapy is a non-invasive, non-systemic treatment
TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate the nerve cells in the brain that are involved in mood regulation. The therapy is carried out over several weeks, during which patients attend a series of daily or near-daily sessions. Many patients report that TMS therapy is painless and that they often feel relaxed during treatment. Furthermore, unlike medication treatments, TMS therapy is not associated with side effects, and there is no need to taper off the treatment after completing a course of therapy.
Several research studies have shown the effectiveness of TMS Therapy in treating depression. One notable study that was carried out in Canada showed that TMS Therapy was effective in treating depression in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who had not responded to 1 to 4 antidepressant treatments. The study found that after 4 to 6 weeks of TMS therapy, 58% of patients had a satisfactory response, and 37% of patients had a remission of symptoms. Additionally, notable clinical improvement was observed in depressive and anxiety symptoms during the TMS treatment course.
A prominent advantage of TMS therapy is its ability to target specific regions of the brain. For instance, TMS therapy can target the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), a region associated with depression. By stimulating the DLPFC, TMS therapy appears to activate areas of the brain that are underactive in individuals with depression. Consequently, this leads to an improvement in depressive symptoms.
Factors that Impact Treatment Outcomes
One factor that may impact TMS therapy outcomes is the number of treatment sessions received. The FDA has approved TMS therapy as a treatment option for depression based on treatment protocols that typically involve 20 to 30 daily treatments lasting 20 to 40 minutes each. Interestingly, some patients report that they start seeing improvements in their mood after just a few sessions, while others require the full treatment course. Regardless, TMS therapy is generally well-tolerated by patients and requires no recovery time after each session.
In conclusion, TMS therapy is a viable treatment option for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. It offers a safe and effective alternative for those who have not responded to other treatments such as medication or psychotherapy. Through the use of magnetic fields that directly target mood-regulating regions of the brain, TMS therapy can produce positive outcomes after several weeks of daily treatments. Speak to your physician to discuss your options.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
Contact us at GeminiTMS.com for further assistance managing your treatment resistant depression.
Feeling down and not knowing where to turn for help?
Seeking treatment for depression can feel like an insurmountable task. But don’t worry, there are many options specially tailored to your unique needs!
Silhouette of depressed person head.
Concept image of depression and anxiety. Waste paper and head silhouette.
Do Your Research
The first step in finding the right treatment center is doing research on different methods that may work for you. You should take time to read up on each facility’s approach to treating depression as well as its qualifications and credentials.
Some centers may offer more comprehensive treatments than others, or have a better success rate with certain types of depression. Taking the time to do your research will help you narrow down your options and make a decision that’s best suited for you.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on recognizing and changing negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
Through CBT, individuals are able to better understand their own thoughts and behaviors so that they can change them in order to improve their mood and outlook on life.
Additionally, CBT can help people learn coping skills that they can use to manage stress and anxiety. It has been shown to be effective in treating depression, especially when used in combination with other treatments such as transcranial magnetic stimulation or lifestyle changes.
Young people with problems listening to their nervous female friend confession with shock reaction while sitting together on special group therapy.
Medication
Depression is certainly no joke and medications for depression can help immensely for some people. Even so, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects that any medication may cause.
Common side effects include dry mouth, weight gain, and drowsiness among others. It’s important to speak to a healthcare professional before deciding to start taking depression medication, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Medication alone often isn’t enough to treat depression and should be used in combination with other treatments such as TMS, as well as making sure you eat right, exercise, and have good social support.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Mt. Airy Maryland
TMS has been proven to be safe and effective in treating major depressive disorder without any significant side effects or long-term risks associated with medication use or other more invasive procedures.
During TMS therapy sessions, high frequency magnetic pulses are sent through coils placed directly over the patient’s head. These pulses then stimulate nerve cells in the area associated with mood regulation which helps improve symptoms of depression over time.
Consider Your Needs When you’re considering a depression treatment center, it’s important to take the time to think about what your specific needs might be.
Just like depression isn’t the same for everyone, neither is the type of treatment that works best for each individual.
Some things to think about are: ● What type of environment do you feel most comfortable in? ● Are you looking for an all-inclusive stay or one where you can come in and out during the day? ● Do you need a certain type of professional to help guide your treatment?
Make sure you take into account ALL possible needs so that you make sure to get the care that works best for YOU.
Talk To Your Doctor/Therapist
Your doctor or therapist can also provide helpful advice when it comes to selecting the right treatment center for your depression. They can provide valuable insight into which facilities might work best for you based on their experience and expertise in treating mental health issues. Additionally, they can provide referrals if necessary, which can streamline the process of choosing the right center for you.
How Do I Find TMS Treatment For Depression Near Me?
If you’re looking for relief from depression, Gemini TMS may be the answer you’ve been searching for.
Gemini TMS offers a customized therapy with positive results and little to no side effects. To get started on your journey towards a brighter future, first determine if you live near our Maryland.
Woman holding a torn label with the word depression toward the camera.
Gemini TMS Clinic
A quick online search using “TMS clinics near me” can point you in the right direction. If there isn’t a Gemini TMS nearby, don’t worry – TMS doctors are available throughout the country and can easily be found with a simple query of “TMS doctor Maryland,” or whatever state you happen to live in.
Take the first step today, and find out more about Gemini TMS treatment for depression near you!
Conclusion: Seeking help for mental health issues can be a daunting prospect, but reaching out and selecting the best treatment center for your needs doesn’t have to be intimidating. Start by talking to your doctor or therapist, who will know your needs best and can point you in the right direction.
Researching “different transcranial magnetic stimulation providers near me” is also a great way to gauge their credentials, patient reviews, and cost of services before making an informed decision. Don’t wait — doing the legwork now will ultimately put you one step closer to recovery!
When researching the possible options for depression treatment, it’s important to look at more than just cost. Sure, every option can come with a different price tag, but what you really need to consider is the long-term cost of each possibility as well as how much time and effort must be invested.
Mood disorders such as depression can be managed both without drugs (such as through transcranial magnetic stimulation) or with medication.
This means you’ll have to weigh your financial situation against your mental health needs before making a decision on what kind of treatments best suits you.
This article will help you take a look at all the options available so you can make the most well rounded decision possible.
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Does Getting Diagnosed With Depression Cost Money
While a diagnosis of depression is not free in the United States, there are numerous resources available to those who may not be able to afford it. Many mental health clinics and even some hospitals offer sliding scale fees based on one’s income, making them more accessible for people without insurance or with limited access to healthcare.
Additionally, there are many online sites offering help and assistance with obtaining a diagnosis for depression. These cyber-consultations can be just as accurate as traditional doctor visits and you don’t necessarily have to leave the comfort of home!
Ultimately, cost should never be a barrier to getting the right diagnosis and understanding what kind of help you need.
Thinking Short Term vs. Long Term:
When it comes to depression, there are pros and cons to thinking in the short-term and long-term when selecting a treatment. If a sufferer is focused mostly on the short-term, they may be able to alleviate some symptoms quickly and then move on with their day-to-day life. However, they should remember that depression is best treated with long-term therapy or medication management. Long-term plans have greater potential for success while ensuring that depression does not return.
There are options and resources available where depression sufferers can find information on depression treatments and decide which will be most beneficial in both the short and long term.
Comparing The Top 3 Treatments For Depression:
If you’re considering depression treatment, you may be wondering about the cost associated with different options.
There are a variety of treatments available for depression, including talk therapy, medication, and TMS therapy.
Let’s talk a look at each one in terms of time and money when making a decision and compare both short-term and long-term effects on your wallet and overall mental health.
Talk Therapy:
Cost: $120 an hour (on average) Time: 1 hour sessions, multiple sessions over long periods of time.
Talk therapy is often recommended as a first line of defense against depression. It can be done either one-on-one or in group sessions with a licensed therapist or counselor. The cost of talk therapy varies depending on the type of insurance coverage you have; some plans cover all or part of the cost while others do not provide any coverage. For those without insurance coverage, session fees range from $50 – $300 per hour depending on the provider’s experience level.
Talk therapy is usually an effective short term option but may require multiple sessions to achieve long term success; thus increasing overall costs over time.
According to a 2017 study on average therapy rates per hour, the results along the east coast were as follows:
State: Average Price Per Hour
Maryland $120 Delaware $111 New Jersey $150 New York $125 Connecticut $120 Washington D.C $150 Pennsylvania $120 Rhode Island $120 Vermont $120
Medication:
Medication is another option for treating depression, but it comes with its own set of financial considerations.
Cost: $20-200 a month depending on insurance Time: A year or longer
Anti-depressant medications typically range from $20 – $200 per month depending on the type prescribed and whether generic versions are available; however, many insurance plans cover a portion or all of these costs which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
While anti-depressants can be effective for treating depression in the short term, they also carry potential side effects that must be monitored closely by a physician – potentially leading to additional doctor visits and/or lab tests which could result in increased costs over time.
Since your time is valuable, it’s important to know that depression medications often take around 2-3 weeks to begin working.
After your symptoms begin to get better it’s recommended to continue taking them for 4-5 months. Once your depressive symptoms have fully subsided your doctor will likely have you keep taking them for 3-6 months. Overall you may end up on them for nearly a year before you fully reap the benefits.
It’s important to remember that depression medications are meant to be used in tandem with therapy or other forms of treatment – one should never solely rely on medication to get better.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy:
Cost: $10-$70 (with insurance) Time: Number of sessions will vary per individual
TMS therapy is becoming increasingly popular among depression sufferers due to its cost effectiveness and undeniable results.
But, how much does TMS therapy cost? It costs significantly less than traditional depression treatments, such as antidepressants or therapy sessions, both in terms of price tag and time commitment.
TMS therapy requires much fewer in-person sessions and typically leads to increased success in alleviating depression symptoms quickly, which is the biggest incentive for depression sufferers.
The good news is that many big name insurance companies now offer partial or full coverage for TMS depression treatments. Though the cost of care may vary from provider to provider, it’s safe to say that TMS treatment is a wiser monetary decision when compared to other depression therapies, especially since its effects are long-lasting.
TMS FAQ:
What is transcranial magnetic stimulation?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a type of noninvasive therapy used to treat depression and other mood disorders. TMS works by using electromagnetic fields to stimulate the neurons in the brain, creating this chain reaction which helps manage mental health issues. This breakthrough therapy has been found to be effective in treating PTSD and can offer promising results with its relatively low TMS treatment cost. It’s usually done within an outpatient setting and the frequency of TMS treatments vary depending on the condition. TMS has brought newfound hope for those suffering from mental illness who had yet to find a successful treatment plan.
How does transcranial magnetic stimulation work?
Put simply, TMS works by using electromagnetic induction to stimulate neurons in the brain. A device is held up against the patient’s skull and a brief electrical current is fired into their brain. This pulse of energy effectively “resets” the neural pathways responsible for mood regulation, enabling people to think more clearly and cope better with psychological challenges such as depression and anxiety.
What are the benefits of transcranial magnetic stimulation?
Research has found that TMS provides great relief to those suffering from severe depression and can even reduce symptoms altogether. Not only this, but it can help eliminate the need for medication and its associated side effects. Furthermore, unlike other treatments such as electroconvulsive therapy, TMS doesn’t result in confusion or memory loss and doesn’t require hospitalization nor does it interfere with daily activities.
Are there any side effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation?
TMS therapy is making waves in the health sector due to its efficacy as a modern treatment for depression without risk of serious side effects. That’s right, you don’t need to worry about any dangerous side effects when undergoing this therapy. While some people may experience headaches or scalp discomfort after having TMS sessions, these are usually mild and clear up quickly. After several sessions, many patients even report feeling happier and better able to focus! With such minimal side effects coupled with the fact that the procedure is non-invasive, it’s no wonder many depression sufferers are turning to TMS therapy as a treatment option.
Consider TMS Therapy For Your Depression:
Depression treatment can come with significant financial considerations no matter which route you take. It’s important to research your options carefully before deciding what’s best for you both financially and medically in order to get the best possible outcome for yourself over both the short and long terms.
TMS therapy is becoming increasingly popular as a cost effective solution to certain mental health issues, with TMS centers in Maryland making it accessible and affordable. Many individuals have reported finding immediate relief from TMS therapy while saving in the long run–as compared to continuing on medication or spending money on talk therapy over time.
TMS therapy is able to rewire your brain differently than medication, making it more efficient and effective without the side effects of medicine. Talk to your insurance about what’s covered under your health plan and ask questions about any additional fees that may apply so that you have all the information needed when making your decision about which treatment path is right for you!
While it’s a big step for many people, making the decision to seek treatment for your depression is a daunting task in and of itself. You may find yourself overwhelmed sifting through various web pages with endless information.
If you’re living with depression, you might be wondering if medication is the right treatment option for you. After all, antidepressants are commonly prescribed to help people manage their depression.
However, there is another potential treatment option that you might not be aware of: transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS.
TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain and has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression.
So, which is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at both options.
Drawing of human brain on chalkboard with inscription transcranial magnetic stimulation.
TMS vs. Antidepressants: The Basics
In order to understand which option may be most effective for you, let’s start by covering the basics.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are medications that are used to treat depression. They work by correcting imbalances in neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit messages in the brain.
Common types of antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs, and tricyclic antidepressants. Some people experience relief from their symptoms within a few weeks of starting antidepressant medication, while others may need to try a few different medications before they find one that works for them.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression, and it does not have the same side effects as antidepressants.
TMS is typically done 5 days per week for 4-6 weeks.
TMS vs. Antidepressants: The Side Effects
Side effects can make or break a treatment option for some people.
Let’s explore a few of the most common symptoms that occur with each:
Antidepressants:
Antidepressants are a popular and effective option for many people, but it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects before starting any new medication.
The most common side effect of antidepressants is nausea, which can be accompanied by vomiting and/or diarrhea.
Other gastrointestinal side effects include:
Loss of appetite
Weight loss or gain
Dry mouth
Headaches
Dizziness
Fatigue
Some people may experience sexual side effects such as decreased libido or erectile dysfunction.
Additionally, some antidepressants can cause mood swings and make anxiety worse. If you experience any of these side effects, it’s important to talk to your doctor so that they can adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.
How common are the side effects of antidepressants? According to a report found in the journal of Psychiatry, 40% of people that take antidepressants experience negative side effects.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation:
If you’ve been considering TMS treatment for your depression, you’re likely wondering about the potential side effects. While any medical treatment comes with some risk, the side effects associated with TMS are relatively mild and short-lived.
The most common side effect of TMS is headache, which affects about 1 in 5 people who receive this treatment. Headaches are usually mild and go away on their own within a few hours.
Other potential side effects of TMS include:
• Scalp discomfort at the site of treatment
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Twitching or spasms in facial muscles
• Changes in taste
• Tingling or sensations in the scalp
How common are the side effects of TMS treatment? These side effects are typically rare and disappear soon after treatment is completed.
TMS vs. Antidepressants: The Cost
Another factor to consider when debating between antidepressants and transcranial magnetic stimulation is the cost.
The cost of antidepressants can vary depending on the type of antidepressant, your insurance coverage, and where you purchase your medication. Generally speaking, generic antidepressants are less expensive than brand-name antidepressants.
Now, how much does TMS cost?
TMS treatment varies depending on where you live, and how much your insurance is willing to cover. Each treatment typically ranges from around $400-$500. If you have insurance, your insurer may cover some or all of the cost of TMS treatment.
However, many insurers still consider TMS to be an experimental treatment, so coverage is not guaranteed.
It’s important to note, while TMS treatment costs are higher than antidepressants, magnetic stimulation gets to the root of depression rather than simply covering up symptoms. This means it’s a much better investment in the long run.
How Do I Find TMS Treatment Centers Near Me?
If you’re interested in finding a TMS treatment center near you, there are a few things you can do.
First, check with your insurance provider. They may have a list of TMS providers that they cover. If not, you can also search online for “TMS depression treatment near me.”
This should give you a list of providers in your area. Once you have a list of potential providers, call them and ask about their experience with TMS and what their success rates are. You should also ask about the cost of treatments and whether or not your insurance will cover them.
When you’re looking for a TMS provider, it’s important to find one that has experience in treating depression and has a high success rate. You should also make sure that the provider is covered by your insurance so that you can get the treatment you need without having to pay out of pocket.
Let’s Recap:
If you’re living with depression, you might be wondering if medication is the right treatment option for you.
Antidepressants are commonly prescribed to help people manage their depression; however, they can cause side effects such as fatigue, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction.
Another potential treatment option is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain and has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression with far fewer side effects than medications
If you live near Mount Airy, Maryland, consider Gemini TMS as your go-to treatment center for transcranial magnetic stimulation. Not only do we provide a free consultation, we can empower you in finding relief from non-responsive depression or chronic mood instability. Contact us today at 301-363-1063 or schedule your free consultation online today at https://www.geminitms.com/schedule-consultation/.
When you hear the words, electric shock therapy, you might feel an uncomfortable ting of fear deep within. No doubt, Hollywood has played a large role in the stigma against any form of shock treatment, depicting it as a form of punishment rather than therapy.
Forms of shock therapy, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, have been proven not only safe but minimally invasive for patients with a wide range of mental health disorders.
The stigma and misinformation surrounding therapies such as TMS have long held many people back from ever seeking help for their debilitating conditions.
Nobody should have to suffer in silence.
We’re here to answer all of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to TMS, so you can feel confident in your decision to change your life.
TMS. the text on the wooden blocks that lie on the notepad. next to the wooden blocks there is one folk
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a form of therapy in which short, repetitive shock waves are sent directly into the areas of the brain associated with depression (or other mood disorders).
As the electromagnet delivers painless pulses to your brain, it’s working hard to stimulate regions associated with mood control, bringing back to life areas with decreased activity due to depression.
TMS treatment works by using two basic principles of science: electricity and magnetism. Our brains are electro-charged organs, sending small bits of electricity throughout our bodies to relay information. When we add a magnet to the equation, scientists can generate electricity and influence the brain’s activity.
How Long Does TMS Treatment Last?
To put it simply: each individual presents unique challenges, so the length of time you’ll spend in your treatment session will vary. However, on average, most TMS treatments take around 30-40 minutes.
How Many TMS Treatments Are Needed?
While many patients begin to feel relief from their symptoms within a few sessions, TMS treatment should be done multiple times a week for 4-6 weeks. Your medical professional will discuss your personal treatment plan with you.
How Long Will The Effects of TMS Treatment Last?
While it would be nice to give a cut-and-dry answer here, the reality is much more complex. Depression is a mood disorder caused by many different factors while all play a role in how long the effects of treatment will last.
Genetics, life stressors, medical conditions, and drug/alcohol use can all alter the way an individual’s brain functions.
Due to all the various factors that can play a role in the onset, frequency, and severity of depression, there is no definitive answer. However, many patients that complete the full course
of TMS treatment recommended by their medical provider see the effects lasting anywhere between 6 months – a year.
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Is TMS Treatment Safe?
While you may not think sending shock waves into your brain is completely harmless, science has proven, it is.
TMS has incredibly low rates of side effects, complications, or risks with even the most serious outcome (having a seizure) is only estimated to happen in less than 1 in every 10,000 patients.
The mild side effects you may experience include:
• A headache
• Neck pain
• Tingling in your face or scalp
• Dizziness
• Temporary ringing in your ears
• Sensitivity to sound
Unlike deep nerve stimulation or electroconvulsive therapy, no surgery, sedation, or anesthesia is required to perform TMS.
In summary: TMS is a scientifically proven safe, effective, therapy option for depression with relatively no side effects or risks involved.
Where Can I Get TMS Treatment?
If TMS treatment sounds like something you’re interested in, you may be curious about where you can find a provider.
If you’re a Maryland resident, Gemini TMS offers treatment for those who haven’t had success, or have had negative experiences with medications and/or talk therapy.
At Gemini, we accept many different insurance plans so everyone can find the relief from depression they desperately need. Consultations with our educated team are free, and an individualized plan will be created to meet your specific needs.
If you’re not a Maryland resident, speaking with your primary healthcare provider or mental health professional is a great place to start. They can often refer you to a trusted organization specializing in TMS therapy.
How Do I Qualify For TMS Treatment?
In order to qualify for TMS treatment, you must meet the minimum requirements set by the FDA. You can find these by contacting your insurance provider however if you fall within these guidelines you’re likely eligible for TMS therapy:
• You’re currently battling a depressive episode
• You’ve been diagnosed with depression by a medical professional
• You’ve tried antidepressants and been unsuccessful
• You’ve tried psychotherapy and been unsuccessful
In addition, in order to qualify for TMS treatment you cannot have any contraindications, such as:
• No suicidal thoughts
• No psychotic symptoms
• No neurological conditions (such as seizures)
• No metal in your cranium
• Not pregnant
• Not nursing
• No substance abuse
In many cases, speaking with your insurance provider will give you a clear answer as to whether or not you qualify for TMS treatment.
What Should I Expect After TMS Treatment?
The recovery time from TMS is minimal, and many people are able to return back to daily activities immediately. While those more sensitive to sensations may need a few minutes to recover from side effects, this is rare.
Once your treatment session is over you can leave and resume your schedule as normal. If you experience twitching or unusual feelings in your head or face afterward your doctor may suggest waiting to leave until they pass. However, this too, is uncommon.
What Are The Benefits of TMS Treatment?
There are various benefits of using TMS therapy to treat your depression. Such advantages include (but are not limited to):
• TMS therapy is noninvasive
• TMS therapy has little to no side effects
• TMS therapy doesn’t require medication use
• TMS therapy provides relief quickly
• TMS therapy is scientifically proven to be safe
• TMS therapy is able to work successfully alongside other interventions
Among all the benefits of TMS therapy the most important is that it can save lives. With depression comes the risk of suicide or self harm. TMS therapy is an excellent, successful treatment option that can relieve symptoms of depression while giving hope to those who haven’t had success with first-line methods of therapy.
TMS treatment can open up a new world of possibilities for those suffering with severe depression. In fact, it may just be the most powerful decision of your life.
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:
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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…).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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!
