TMS is a Treatment for Hard-to-Treat Depression

Before suggesting TMS to a patient as a depression treatment, a TMS provider needs to be sure it is the best option. Unless the patient has been referred to them by another certified mental health practitioner, the psychiatrist may do a comprehensive diagnostic before making any therapy suggestions, including TMS, for hard-to-treat depression.

Determining the need for TMS therapy

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-drug method of treating major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression that has shown promise in clinical trials. A doctor trained in TMS can identify depression and other mental health issues and then advise patients on whether or not TMS therapy is warranted.

Before recommending TMS to a patient, the specialist must have accurately diagnosed the patient's illness. Treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder may both benefit from TMS. As a result, the TMS physician may screen for these two primary mental health problems. Various diagnostic procedures may precede TMS, including interviews with family members, a review of the patient's medical history, symptom documentation, and blood work. Once we finalize the diagnosis, the specialist may begin planning the most effective course of therapy.

In many cases, oral antidepressant medication is all that is needed to alleviate symptoms and put the patient into remission. However, if the prescribed oral drug is ineffective, a psychiatrist may suggest TMS as an alternative. TMS may be a safer option than oral medicine for certain people. Additionally, some patients prefer TMS if antidepressants induce moderate to severe adverse effects. Patients must have a consultation session with a mental health professional to determine whether TMS is the proper treatment.

How the TMS procedure works

The TMS treatment process is performed at a medical facility. The patient relaxes in a plush chair for the treatment. The treatment works by focusing on the part of the brain that controls emotion, thus alleviating the symptoms associated with depression and other mood disorders, even those that have not responded to therapy. The goal is to increase activity in this brain region to boost the patient's mood. In contrast to many antidepressants, many patients report feeling better in as little as a week with this depression treatment.

When to Seek Diagnosis from a TMS Specialist

TMS doctors are usually psychiatrists or other mental health professionals. Consequently, they may also play a role in diagnosing depressive illness or a similar mood disorder. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a psychiatrist after experiencing depressive symptoms for more than two weeks.

Consult with a professional to see whether TMS is a good fit

You may want to try TMS therapy if you have tried other conventional depression treatments without seeing positive results. Be sure to get in touch with the psychiatrist immediately to schedule a consultation appointment in such a case. A mental health professional is committed to assisting patients in overcoming depression and living happy, productive lives. They will perform the necessary evaluation and recommend the proper depression treatment.
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