TMS for Major Depressive Disorder

Trying TMS therapy to combat mental illnesses is something that psychiatrists are using more and more. This alternative therapy can either supplement or replace the use of medication. If you or someone you care about is suffering from major depressive disorder, this approach may be the right way to manage and overcome the symptoms. It could make sense when other techniques have not been successful.

What is major depressive disorder?

Many people — young and old — feel depressed during their lives. Feelings of sadness and gloom can come because of a traumatic event. Other people may have these challenges because of a disappointment or perceived failure. But in these cases, once the difficulty has passed, the person can usually recover without intervention. When depression persists and increases, the individual may have major depressive disorder.

Some people call this major depressive disorder. It is not a condition that a person can simply “get over” on their own. The disorder brings with it an inability to function well in daily life. A person with major depressive disorder can have trouble accomplishing routine tasks. The person may also have difficulty in relationships or holding down a job.

Causes of major depressive disorder and its signs

TMS treatment can be a good way to combat this condition. But it is first important to understand when a person may have it and what causes it. The illness is characterized by feelings of intense sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness. The person may have emotional outbursts such as crying fits or anger, often for no apparent reason. The patient may also lose all interest in activities such as hobbies and being with other people.

The causes of this condition are expressly clear. However, psychiatrists believe brain chemistry can play a role. When there are changes in neurotransmitters and how they interact with the brain, depression may occur. Other possible causes include hormonal changes and genetics.

An overview of TMS

A new concept to some patients, transcranial magnetic stimulation involves increasing brain activity. Psychiatrists believe that when the portions of the brain that control behavior and mood have low function, depression can result. TMS seeks to stimulate the nerve cells in these areas to increase the activity. To do this, a technician will send electromagnetic pulses into the patient’s brain. This happens through coils on the person’s head. This process lasts about 30 to 40 minutes and will occur five days a week for four to six weeks.

What the results look like

It is vital that the patient follows through with the TMS treatment. After the process ends, the patient should notice a difference in how they feel and cope with the symptoms of depression. Results will vary, but the patient can start noticing changes within a few weeks. The psychiatrist may decide to do TMS along with medication.