TMS Therapy for Anxiety
How Does TMS Work and its benefits
Anxiety is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of people every year. The good news is that there are many treatment options available to help alleviate anxiety symptoms. One such treatment is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy. So, let us discuss how TMS therapy works, its benefits, and why it could be a possible solution for your anxiety struggles.
What is TMS Therapy
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Unlike other treatments, TMS therapy does not require surgery, medication, or anaesthesia.
During the procedure, a small magnetic coil is placed near the scalp. The coil sends short magnetic pulses to the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that regulates mood and emotions.
TMS Therapy Benefits
TMS therapy is an effective treatment option for anxiety disorders because it helps to rebalance neurotransmitters in the brain that play a crucial role in regulating mood and emotions. It has been found to be particularly effective for those who have not responded well to traditional forms of treatment, such as medication or talking therapy.
Another benefit of TMS therapy is its minimal side effects. Unlike some anxiety medications, TMS doesn’t cause weight changes, sexual dysfunction, or other unpleasant side effects.
Most patients report only mild discomfort during the procedure, such as a slight tapping sensation on the scalp. In addition, because it is non-invasive, patients are able to resume their normal activities immediately after treatment.
How Long Are TMS Therapy Sessions
TMS therapy only last 30 minutes. TMS treatment is a time-efficient treatment for anxiety as well as other mental health conditions.
A typical course of treatment lasts four to six weeks, with patients undergoing daily sessions for five days a week. Each treatment session helps to rebuild neural pathways in the brain, which leads to long-term improvements in mood and anxiety symptoms.
How Long Do TMS Benefits Last
One of the most commonly asked questions about TMS therapy for anxiety is how long its benefits last. While the duration of improvement varies from person to person, research has shown that TMS therapy has provided long-term benefits for many patients. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, patients who received TMS therapy for six weeks experienced a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms even six months after the treatment ended.
Another study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that patients who received TMS therapy had reduced anxiety symptoms for up to a year after their treatment.
At The rTMS Centre our results show that benefits can last even longer than the one year mentioned in the above studies mentioned.
It’s important to note that the duration of benefits may depend on various factors such as the severity of anxiety, the number of TMS sessions received, and the individual response to the treatment. Therefore, it’s recommended to continue maintenance sessions after the initial treatment is complete. This can help ensure the longevity of the results and prevent the return of anxiety symptoms.
Conclusion
If you’re struggling with anxiety and are looking for a new treatment option, TMS therapy could be worth trying. It is a non-invasive, low-risk procedure that boasts minimal side effects, making it a beneficial option for those who are worried about medication side effects or surgical procedures.
Additionally, with TMS therapy, many patients have experienced significant improvements in their mood and anxiety levels, leading to better mental health and overall well-being.
