Alternate Depression Treatment with TMS in Santa Monica

Alternative Depression Treatment with TMS

What is TMS?

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an alternative treatment for depression. The procedure is provided for a patient suffering from depression but who has become resistant to other depression treatments such as antidepressant drugs.

TMS is a medical intervention that can be used to save a patient who had lost hope of recovery due to previous unsuccessful treatments. It involves stimulating the brain, is non-invasive, and does not require any surgical intervention.

How is alternative depression treatment with TMS performed?

For your doctor to determine that you need TMS to overcome your depression, you will undergo a physical examination and a psychiatric evaluation. Treatment needs to be performed at a medical clinic under the supervision of your doctor.

During treatment, an electromagnetic coil is used to generate magnetic pulses which are sent to your brain repeatedly to stimulate nerve cells. Biologically, when a patient suffers from depression, a part of their brain becomes less active. This treatment is particularly meant to reactivate your brain and specifically target the area that boosts your mood.

TMS Treatment Sessions

Treatment is done in sessions. The average time for each TMS session is approximately 30 minutes. The sessions should be done at least 5 times a week for 6 to 8 weeks. Treatment is the same in each session. Your doctor determines the amount of magnetic energy required to stimulate your brain. The procedure is known to have minimal side effects such as mild headache and a little discomfort on the area where the magnetic coil is placed.

If you have tried different types of antidepressants, you have gone through psychotherapy and you have adjusted to a healthy lifestyle but your depression hasn’t gone away, you may consider an alternative treatment for depression with TMS. Call us to schedule your first appointment.