Medication and psychotherapy help many people cope with severe depression. But for others, feelings of isolation, sadness and hopelessness persist even with treatment.
If you’re one of the many people with treatment-resistant depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be right for you. TMS is a noninvasive, drug-free therapy that offers hope for people working to break free from depression.
Lakeside Behavioral Health System is one of just a few locations in Memphis offering TMS. You receive treatment in a comfortable, homelike setting from compassionate providers you can trust.
What Is TMS?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is an FDA-approved therapy for depression. We use a special coil held close to your head to deliver magnetic pulses. The pulses create a mild electrical current that stimulates nerves in the region of your brain responsible for depression.
Over multiple sessions, TMS activates neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine that can help you feel better. Most people need 30 to 36 TMS sessions over six to nine weeks.
Benefits of TMS for Depression
Studies show that TMS helps 50% to 60% of people with treatment-resistant depression.1 Benefits of TMS include:
- Noninvasive: TMS is not a surgical procedure. It doesn’t involve needles or cuts in your skin. We deliver magnetic pulses using an external device.
- No anesthesia: You don’t need sedation or general anesthesia for TMS. You’re awake during the procedure, and we help you stay calm and comfortable.
- Minimal side effects: A headache or pain and irritation at the site of the application are the most common side effects of TMS. These issues typically resolve after the first three to six treatments.
- No downtime: You can return to work, exercise and other activities right after your treatment. In fact, many people report feeling more energized after TMS.
- Driving permitted: You can drive yourself to and from TMS treatments. You can also drive in between treatments, so there’s minimal impact on your life.
Who Can Benefit From TMS Treatment?
You may be a candidate for TMS if you are an adult (18 and up) who has depression despite receiving other treatments.
One of our providers performs a thorough psychological and medical assessment to make sure you’re a good candidate for this treatment. Our staff also provides insurance verification.
Help Is Here
Call 901-377-4733 or contact us to begin your recovery.
There are risks associated with any medical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is right for you.
Somani A, Kar SK. Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in treatment-resistant depression: the evidence thus far. Gen Psychiatr. 2019 Aug 12;32(4):e100074.