What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?
TMS is an effective, safe and non-invasive neuro stimulation procedure. Magnetic pulses are used to activate targeted areas of your brain where decreased activity causes depression, anxiety and PTSD.
What to expect
TMS sessions are less than 30 minutes in duration and are usually carried out five times per week for 6 weeks. This can be altered to suit your needs.
During treatment
Here is what to expect during your sessions:
- You’ll be seated in our treatment chair, listening to music with the magnetic coil placed gently against your head
- When the machine is on you will feel a light tapping on your head where the coil is located
- Sessions last approximately 20 minutes, you will be awake and alert during the procedure
Post treatment & results
Because TMS is non-invasive and doesn’t require any anaesthesia or sedation you are able to return to your normal activities right away.
If TMS works for you, your symptoms of depression will improve and may go away completely. It is important to remember that results will vary from person to person.
Key points
TMS is an evidence-based effective treatment of depression.
Therapy sessions are conducted within one of our clinics.
TMS doesn’t require any anaesthesia or sedation, you can return to normal activities right away.
Treatments do not cause impairment of memory or effect your sleep.
Treatment sessions last approximately 20 minutes.
The role of TMS in depression treatment
Step 1
Lifestyle Measures
Lifestyle Modifications and Psychological therapy. E.g. exercise, diet modification & CBT.
Step 2
Antidepressant
Trial of 2 antidepressants from different classes for 3 weeks minimum. E.g. Escitalopram and/or Mirtazapine.
Step 3
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Refer for TMS course.
Step 4
Augmentation Strategies
Mood stabiliser, antipsychotics & tricyclic antidepressant.
Step 5
Novel Agents
Inpatient treatment / Electroconvulsive therapy.