Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment option for treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions. TMS is an FDA-approved therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. For people who have not responded well to medications and psychotherapy, TMS offers an alternative that can lead to significant improvements in symptoms.
However, one of the most common questions about TMS treatment is: how long do the effects last? The answer varies depending on several factors influencing the duration and effectiveness of the therapy.
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The effects of TMS can vary significantly from person to person. Several factors contribute to how long someone experiences symptom relief after completing a course of TMS treatment. These factors include:
Understanding these factors influencing the duration of TMS is key to managing expectations and planning for long-term care.
A standard course of treatment with TMS usually involves daily sessions for four to six weeks. Each session lasts about 30 to 40 minutes. Most people will undergo 20 to 30 sessions during this time. The number of TMS sessions can vary significantly depending on individual needs and responses.
For many, symptom relief begins to appear within two to three weeks of starting TMS. After the initial course of treatment, the long-term effects can last for several months, or even longer in some cases. Some may need periodic booster sessions to maintain the benefits. These boosters are usually scheduled as needed, sometimes months apart.
In contrast, other mental health treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), may require less frequent sessions but come with more potential side effects. TMS is seen as a safer, less invasive alternative that doesn’t require anesthesia or cause memory loss.
Before beginning TMS, it’s important to know what to expect. The process is straightforward and doesn’t require any special preparation. Here’s what you need to know:
Consultation
Before starting TMS treatment, you’ll meet with a healthcare provider to discuss your medical history and determine if TMS is the right treatment option for your mental health condition.
Side Effects
TMS has minimal side effects, the most common being mild discomfort or a slight headache during or after the session. Unlike ECT, TMS doesn’t cause memory problems or require anesthesia.
Lifestyle Considerations
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—through proper diet, exercise, and sleep—can help maximize the effectiveness of TMS. These factors can influence how long the positive effects of TMS last.
For some people, the relief from symptoms of depression can last six months or more. Others may experience long-term benefits for over a year. However, as mentioned earlier, some people may require booster sessions to maintain their improvements.
The long-term success of TMS often depends on whether the patient continues other treatments, such as medications and psychotherapy, which can enhance the effects of the therapy. If TMS is used as part of a comprehensive treatment for depression, the results can be longer-lasting.
Finding a licensed TMS provider is essential to ensure you receive the best care. Here’s how to go about it:
Doing thorough research ensures you can find a clinic that suits your needs and helps you achieve significant improvements in your mental health.
TMS is a promising treatment option for individuals with treatment-resistant depression who haven’t found relief through traditional therapies like medications and psychotherapy. While the number of TMS sessions and the duration of the effects of TMS can vary significantly, many people experience lasting relief from depression symptoms for months, and sometimes longer.
If you’re considering TMS, understanding the factors influencing its duration and knowing how to prepare for therapy will help you get the most out of this FDA-approved therapy. For people within the Scottsdale and Phoenix area, our facilities are open to provide guidance and support for TMS therapy. Connect with us today and start building a future of wellness.
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