Have you been diagnosed with depression in Everett, Washington? While there are many viable depression treatment pathways, there is no single method that works 100% for everyone. If medication and traditional therapy aren’t yielding the outcome you hope for, you might want to consider TMS therapy. New advancements in the industry have provided more effective and noninvasive alternatives to antidepressants, which often induce unwanted side effects. Keep the following about TMS in mind as you explore solutions to your depression.
The Basics
Similar to MRIs, TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, directs magnetic pulses to certain areas of the brain. With this procedure, technicians can “wake up” and elevate concentrations of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.
Method
Those looking into TMS treatment will be glad to know it’s non-invasive. There’s no need for sedation, and you’ll be fully alert throughout the entire procedure. It’s also non-systemic, meaning no drugs ever enter your blood stream. This is a major factor in keeping side-effects at bay, such as fatigue, erectile dysfunction, and sudden weight gain.
Not all treatments for depression are effective — some keep patients in an endless cycle that never allows for them to gain relief. With an approximate 70% efficacy rate, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, is often the solution.
“Applying Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to different parts of the brain repeatedly, we can modify the brain activity in those areas, and that can translate into a benefit for patients with different disorders.”1 Dr. Pascual-Leone, Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School.
The Endless Cycle of 1-2-3
The vicious cycle of attending therapy sessions coupled with frequent changes in medications leaves many people feeling defeated. Not only do they lose time and funds that could be spent carrying out other tasks, but they may also never get relief from their symptoms. It has been reported by various studies that major depressive disorder is often treatment-resistant, meaning that the likelihood of symptom reduction or remission through medication is reduced. Given that less than half of patients with major depressive disorder are ever successfully treated with medication and therapy alone, for many it becomes necessary to explore other avenues. Advances in medical technology have allowed TMS to rapidly become one of the most recommended ways to help patients gain relief from their depressive symptoms.
What Is TMS Therapy?
TMS Therapy is an outpatient procedure that uses electromagnetic pulses to target specific sections of the brain responsible for mood regulation. TMS was approved by The Food and Drug Administration in 2008 as a safe and effective treatment for depression at registered TMS clinics.
Through the use of a coil that is placed at precise locations on the patient’s scalp, the electromagnetic pulses delivered to the brain target the nerve centers that are responsible for mood control and assist in balancing the brain’s chemical concentrations by forcing the neurons to fire and subsequently release neurotransmitters.
How Long Do These Treatments Last?
TMS is a non-invasive, outpatient procedure that lasts between 15 and 30 minutes daily, depending on the protocol prescribed by the treating provider. A full treatment cycle is typically 30 sessions over a six-week period. Once completed, individuals typically maintain their results for at least 6-12 months, and for many individuals results can last much longer. This is due to the high level of efficacy associated with TMS treatments. Studies have shown that TMS offers a 70% chance of achieving a clinically significant improvement in symptoms with approximately 45-50% of patients reaching remission. It has also been reported that 2/3 of patients who undergo this procedure derive lasting success.
How Effective is TMS in Treating Depression?
While not commonly well known to the general public, TMS treatment is rapidly growing in popularity among the behavioral health community due to its high efficacy rates. But the question for many is, “just how effective is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in helping a patient with a depressive disorder?”
The main challenge with depression is the mood-altering and inhibiting nature of its symptoms. As such, the treatment of this mental condition, just like others, focuses on managing and eradicating symptoms. TMS achieves this by focusing electromagnetic pulses on the area of the brain responsible for mood, known as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC).
This is done by placing a coil, that delivers an electromagnetic pulse, to the patient’s brain. This procedure is non-invasive and takes place entirely outside of the body, without any need for anesthesia or admission of patients. With TMS, patients get the chance to come in for their treatment sessions and carry out their daily activities without hindrance afterward. Some of the perks that come with undergoing TMS treatments include the absence of medication, no drug-related side effects, and more efficacy in battling depression.
Data by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America suggests that medication and talk therapy are only effective in treating less than half of depressive patients. This is worrisome, as depression affects a staggering 18.1% of adults living in America. There’s no telling how high this figure could rise with the unabated pandemic. A beacon of hope has, however, appeared with TMS treatments. The success rate of this procedure is as high as 70-75%, meaning patients are more likely to recover and live meaningful lives without interruption. TMS has also shown to be effective in treating PTSD and anxiety in approximately 50% of patients.
In some cases, patients may recover fully from their symptoms without reoccurrence. The probability of this makes TMS more alluring than other forms of treatment. More than half of the patients who undergo TMS procedures benefit from prolonged outcomes. The effects of one complete cycle often last as long as six months or a year, depending on the severity of symptoms and triggering factors. Not all patients require a full 30-36 treatments to reach remission; some patients experience significant improvement in their first few sessions and some reach full remission in as few as 10-15 treatments.
Currently, TMS is the most effective non-invasive treatment for major depressive disorders and medication-resistant symptoms of depression. A full procedure generally consists of 30 stimulating sessions spread across 5 to 6 weeks. NeuroStim TMS clinics provide affordable TMS treatments to depressive patients in and around Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and throughout the greater Puget Sound region.
Looking back on his experience administering TMS over the years, NeuroStim’s Chief Medical Advisor, Dr. Jonathan Downar, shares his insights on TMS and its growing popularity below:
“TMS is one of the fastest growing treatment techniques in mental health and likely one of the fastest growing in medicine overall. The annual growth is likely around 30% and increasing each year. What’s encouraging to see is that the treatment techniques are continuing to improve year over year, with increasing efficacy and a bright future not only depression treatment but a number of other conditions currently undergoing advanced clinical studies as well.”
NeuroStim TMS clinics offer individuals living with depression an opportunity to get effective treatment without medication. NeuroStim TMS offers F.D.A approved TMS treatment to patients living in the Puget Sound area, with treatment clinics in Everett, Bellevue, Seattle, Tacoma and Olympia.
Are you or someone you know fighting depression in Olympia, Washington? It might be immensely helpful to find a depression treatment center. Since there are multiple ways of addressing the symptoms, it can be difficult knowing where to get help. If you’re fed up with managing your condition by yourself, it’s time to seek professional assistance. Keep the following tips in mind as you explore your options.
Talk to People You Know
Openly discussing depression can be hard. However, you may have a relative or acquaintance who was in the same shoes you are in now. This person is a likely source of help and can point you in the right direction.
Speak to a Healthcare Provider
Get advice from a health professional about your condition. A licensed medical provider can perform an accurate diagnosis and introduce the varying treatment pathways. If the professional already knows you have depression, it’s important to disclose any prior forms of treatment you have received.
Rising cases of anxiety worldwide have left many pondering on the most effective way to combat this silent illness. Research states that about 18% of American adults are either already affected or prone to suffering symptoms of anxiety. This makes it one of the most prominent mental conditions nationwide.
Anxiety and its symptoms are known to disrupt the completion of tasks, alter moods, and sometimes lead to panic attacks. Although current forms of treatment include talk therapy and medication, both have recorded a less than satisfactory result for many. This has led to development of a more efficient treatment capable of combating the increasing rate of anxiety cases.
There are various forms of anxiety disorders that can include OCD, generalized anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, and social anxiety. Regardless of what form of anxiety an individual has, it often interferes with daily activities and has adverse effects on people’s relationships with family and coworkers.
One of the new treatment methods now being used for anxiety disorders is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This treatment, referred to as TMS Therapy, has been shown to actively produce changes in regions of the brain that are implicated in mood regulation, such as the prefrontal cortex. The magnetic stimulation that is delivered non-invasively through invisible pulses allows the neuronal pathways to work together to regulate mood. As a result, individuals suffering from anxiety are able to gain relief from their symptoms and have improved cognitive function when dealing with situations that previously triggered anxiety.
Will TMS Work For Me?
Although it’s generally recommended for patients living with major depressive disorders, healthcare experts believe that TMS may be beneficial in treating patients with anxiety disorders due to the similarity in symptoms between both conditions. Also, anxiety disorders are caused by chemical imbalances in the brain that could result in excessive worry, fear, and shortness of breath.
Studies have shown that magnetic pulses from TMS can be directed to lessen the hyperactive area of the brain and achieve an equilibrium between the hypoactive and hyperactive nerve centers, thus reducing the effects of anxiety. Dr. Tasha Morris, an experienced psychiatrist and Medical Director of NeuroStim TMS, addresses the suitability of TMS in anxiety disorders below:
“We have seen consistently good results in anxious patients responding to TMS Therapy. We recently published results of a study we completed on 401 patients in the Brain Stimulation Journal; it showed that 60% of patients had a significant positive response (at least a 50% improvement in symptoms) and 44% achieved full remission from anxiety.”
The procedure is FDA approved and non-invasive. Each session lasts between 5 to 20 minutes, has limited side effects, no addictive tendencies, and provides lasting relief from symptoms without the use of medication. Lastly, being an outpatient procedure, TMS allows patients to receive treatments and go about their daily tasks seamlessly.
Patients in the greater Puget Sound area may consult NeuroStim centers for more information on TMS treatments and its applicability to their case.
Do you suspect you might be having ongoing depression in Lakewood, Washington? There are multiple depression types and each has its own list of symptoms. To formulate a depression treatment plan, it’s of utmost importance to identify your specific condition. Only a licensed healthcare provider can accurately give a diagnosis. The following are some of the common forms of depression and their corresponding symptoms.
If you’re struggling to maintain your health and well-being as part of a military family, you’re not alone.
Researchers estimate that up to 14% of military service members experience PTSD in the military and after deployment, while mood disorders are also common among military children and their families.
Medication and other treatments may provide some relief from PTSD, anxiety, and depression in the military, but they also come with numerous side effects. Many patients have decided to look elsewhere for a ray of hope, and a newer treatment, TMS therapy, has proven beneficial for thousands of military families.
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment that can help reduce symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety in the military and after deployment. NeuroStim TMS offers TMS therapy in each of our five clinics across the state of Washington, and we have administered more than 30,000 successful TMS treatments since 2018.
Are your feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, or depression becoming more than you can handle in Lakewood? When these emotions make it almost impossible to live a normal life, cause physical side effects, or last for prolonged durations, you may require medical assistance. Knowing when being sad has evolved into depression, though, can be tricky. Being able to identify the depression signs is the initial step. Talk to a medical professional about possible treatments if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms.
Difficulty Concentrating
A prevalent symptom of depression is trouble focusing. You may also have a hard time recalling details or making decisive decisions.
Lethargy
Being always out of energy for no reason is another depression sign. If you get ample sleep but still feel fatigued throughout the day, talk to a healthcare professional.
Are you fighting depression in Bellevue, Washington? It might be time to contemplate TMS therapy. This is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment option approved by the FDA. As with any depression treatment, this option isn’t for everyone. You need to talk to a healthcare practitioner about your specific situation before a doctor can make a recommendation. You can decide whether you might be a good candidate for TMS therapy by asking yourself the following questions.
Are You Taking More Than One Anti-depressant Medication?
With TMS therapy, you may be able to forgo anti-depressant medications completely. A healthcare professional, though, needs to make this determination.
Is Your Medication Failing to Provide Satisfactory Relief?
If you’re still undergoing depression symptoms in spite of current treatment, TMS therapy just might be a feasible pathway.
Do the Side Effects from Your Medication Outweigh the Benefits?
Many depression medications cause patients to experience lingering and ongoing side effects. TMS therapy can eliminate the symptoms altogether.
Has Depression Increased Your Doctor Visits for Other Conditions?
Depression can lead to other issues or exacerbate existing health conditions. TMS therapy may help you avoid doctor visits for medical issues induced by depression and chronic anxiety.
Are you concerned that someone you care about is struggling with depression around Lakewood? Depression is not a choice; it’s an indiscriminate condition that can have life-altering repercussions. Recognizing the signs of depression in others is important. Early detection ensures your loved ones receive the depression treatment they need. While a licensed medical professional will need to provide a diagnosis, there are several indicators worth noting. Be aware of the following signs if you’re worried someone close to you is depressed.
Loss of Interest in Hobbies
Many patients with depression lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. If you notice a loved one withdrawing from pastimes they used to thrive in, it can be a sign that something is not right.
Trouble Sleeping
It’s not uncommon for people with depression to have difficulty sleeping. They may have trouble falling asleep or may wake up multiple times in the middle of the night.
Are you concerned that you or a loved one may be at risk for developing depression in Bellevue? There are various factors that can contribute to this debilitating condition. Knowing if you or a family member is displaying signs of depression is important. Not only will you be informed, but you’ll know when to seek assistance from a medical professional. If you notice one or more of the following depression risk factors, it may be time to talk to a physician about depression and treatment options.
Family History of Depression
Do you have a history of diagnosed depression in your family? Hereditary does play a major role. While having a relative with depression doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll develop it too, it does elevate your risk factor.
Loss of a Loved One
People who experience a sudden loss of a family member may develop depression. It’s typical for prolonged grief to evolve into feelings of hopelessness, profound despair, or contemplation of suicide.
Have you been diagnosed with depression in Everett, Washington? While there are many viable depression treatment pathways, there is no single method that works 100% for everyone. If medication and traditional therapy aren’t yielding the outcome you hope for, you might want to consider TMS therapy. New advancements in the industry have provided more effective and noninvasive alternatives to antidepressants, which often induce unwanted side effects. Keep the following about TMS in mind as you explore solutions to your depression.
treatment techniques in mental health and likely one of the fastest growing in medicine overall. The annual growth is likely around 30% and increasing each year. What’s encouraging to see is that the treatment techniques are continuing to improve year over year, with increasing efficacy and a bright future not only depression treatment but a number of other conditions currently undergoing advanced clinical studies as well.”
Do you suspect you might be having ongoing depression in Lakewood, Washington? There are multiple depression types and each has its own list of symptoms. To formulate a 
Are your feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, or depression becoming more than you can handle in Lakewood? When these emotions make it almost impossible to live a normal life, cause physical side effects, or last for prolonged durations, you may require medical assistance. Knowing when being sad has evolved into depression, though, can be tricky. Being able to identify the depression signs is the initial step. Talk to a medical professional about possible
Are you fighting depression in Bellevue, Washington? It might be time to contemplate TMS therapy. This is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment option approved by the FDA. As with any 
Are you concerned that someone you care about is struggling with depression around Lakewood? Depression is not a choice; it’s an indiscriminate condition that can have life-altering repercussions. Recognizing the signs of depression in others is important. Early detection ensures your loved ones receive the 
Are you concerned that you or a loved one may be at risk for developing depression in Bellevue? There are various factors that can contribute to this debilitating condition. Knowing if you or a family member is displaying signs of depression is important. Not only will you be informed, but you’ll know when to seek assistance from a medical professional. If you notice one or more of the following depression risk factors, it may be time to talk to a physician about depression and