How Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Can Help You

If you or someone you know struggles with depression, you probably already know that it’s more than just feeling down. More than 17 million Americans suffer from depression, a complex mental health disorder that can cause memory loss, lack of interest in hobbies and pastimes, and overwhelming feelings of sadness and frustration. 

For this reason, it’s important to respond to each case of depression with a multi-faceted and unique treatment plan. But sometimes the traditional treatments of medication and lifestyle changes just aren’t enough.

When conventional methods fail, you’re probably wondering what other options are available. Dr. Phillip J. Bowman and our team at Bowman Medical Group in Beverly Hills, California, offer transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive treatment for depression. Read on to learn if it could be the right fit for treating your depression symptoms.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation: The basics

Transcranial magnetic stimulation uses a process called electromagnetic induction to address the neurochemical imbalances that influence and exacerbate depression. During a typical TMS session, one of our specialists uses an insulated coil to administer painless and safe magnetic pulses to the areas of your brain most significantly linked to depression.

TMS aims to create a permanent positive shift in how your brain sends messages and emotions. Over a course of repeated treatment, this can lead to significant reductions in harmful symptoms of depression.

What can I expect from a TMS session?

A typical TMS session only lasts about 30 minutes and it’s comfortable and painless. The most important thing to note about the sessions is that you’re in control and aware during all of them.

During each session, you’re seated and wear a protective cap. One of our providers administers the magnetic pulses through a coil over your cap. 

After each session, your provider notes how the therapy affects your depression. From there they can work with you to devise an appropriate course of treatment.

What can TMS do for me in the long run?

TMS is tailored to create lasting positive change in the areas of your brain that are most affected by depression. Although it’s a relatively new treatment, plenty of research already suggests that it has a powerful and sometimes permanent impact on all the common symptoms of depression. It even has promising possibilities when applied to people with disorders such as schizophrenia and OCD.

TMS stands out as a worthwhile treatment for even the most complicated cases of depression. Even if your depression is being managed with medication, changes in your lifestyle, or both, TMS can still be an option to improve the effectiveness of your treatments.

If you’re concerned about depression and curious about whether transcranial magnetic stimulation is a good fit for you, schedule an appointment with our team. Call our office at 310-982-7003 or use online scheduling today.