Is TMS Right for You? 5 Questions to Ask Your Psychiatrist

is tms right for you bni clinics

Have you tried every treatment option out there to find relief from your debilitating mental health condition, but nothing seems to work? This is not a unique experience. In 2021, 1,245,000 Californians had a serious mental health condition. Many of them needed help beyond what traditional treatment options could provide.

BNI Clinics provides alternative options for those who have tried traditional treatments unsuccessfully. One of these is known as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). How can you tell if TMS is right for you? We’ll answer that question in this blog.

Understanding TMS: Is it Safe?

TMS was invented in 1985 as a non-invasive procedure that sends pulses to stimulate nerves in your brain with the help of a magnetic coil. These pulses can improve symptoms caused by mental health conditions that other methods, like traditional therapy and antidepressants, haven’t enhanced. TMS has few side effects, making it appealing to those seeking an alternative treatment to finding relief.

The Science Behind TMS: How Does it Work??

TMS is an outpatient procedure conducted at a clinic by a certified technician. Items like jewelry are expected to be removed for the client’s safety. This is because these items are sensitive to the magnets involved. The coils associated with this treatment are placed on the scalp and deliver magnetic pulses to stimulate brain regions, like the prefrontal cortex, which regulates mood. This works to treat depression because these areas tend to have decreased activity while the client has this condition.

TMS is still being researched, and we don’t know precisely why it affects how the brain works positively. However, several studies have shown that between 30% and 50% of people with treatment-resistant depression find improvement through this option.

understanding tms is it safe

Evaluating Eligibility: Determining If TMS Is Right For You

The best way to know if TMS might work for you is to get a psychiatric evaluation from a mental health professional. They will give you the best idea of what treatment options will benefit you and work out a plan if it is determined that TMS is the best fit. Common conditions that it is used to treat include treatment-resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), but it may also be used for other conditions, primarily if other treatment options are ineffective.

While it is found to be safe and effective for most people, doctors don’t recommend it for everyone. If you have metal in your head, such as neck or brain stents, metal plates, permanent piercings, or cochlear implants, TMS may not be the best fit for you. Because metals, like jewelry, need to be removed before conducting the procedure to avoid them heating up and causing injuries, permanent options make it more challenging to ensure your safety. Additionally, your doctor might recommend a different option if you have a medical history, have an increased risk of seizures, or are taking stimulants.

5 Essential Questions to Discuss With Your Psychiatrist Regarding TMS Treatment

Your psychiatrist can answer any questions about the procedure before it happens. Here are 5 questions that are good to ask that you might not have thought of right away:

  • If my symptoms don’t improve with TMS, what other options can I try? How long should I wait before looking at different options? While this procedure is effective for many people, it doesn’t work for everyone. Before starting, it is crucial to be on the same page with your psychiatrist on when it is time to try something else if it doesn’t work.
  • Will my insurance cover TMS? Not all insurance companies or plans will cover TMS. Talking with your psychiatrist and insurance company beforehand will give you a better idea of whether this is a viable financial option.
  • What is a typical TMS session like? While TMS is similar, many clinics might perform it or have different expectations of running the appointment. Knowing beforehand what to expect before your first appointment gives you a better idea of what to prepare for.
  • What should I avoid while undergoing TMS? As mentioned before, TMS is relatively safe. Still, your psychiatrist might recommend avoiding certain things, like stimulants.
  • Do I need to continue taking my antidepressant during TMS? The answer varies depending on the treatment plan you and your psychiatrist have. Many people undergoing TMS have found that their antidepressants are not working. However, when used in conjunction with TMS, it might begin working.

If you have any questions not listed here, do not be afraid to ask your psychiatrist about them.

the science behind tms how does it work

Find TMS Treatment in Los Angeles

For those who have been frustrated by the lack of improvement found in typical mental health treatment options, TMS treatment provides them with a life-saving alternative. If you have felt like you are running out of options when it comes to recovering from depression or another treatment-resistant condition, scheduling an assessment with a qualified clinician can be the first step in finding the healing you deserve.

BNI Clinics provides safe and effective mental health treatment for children and adults in the Los Angeles area. Our clinician-led team allows us to provide unique expert care, such as TMS treatment, that empowers clients and brings peace and fulfillment. For more information about this service, call us today at 310-691-5005. 

BNI Clinics: Science-based, evidence-backed, compassion-led.