As with many medical treatments, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has garnered its share of misinterpretations, half-truths, and outright myths. Although TMS is determined safe by the National Institute of Health and is FDA-approved as an effective treatment for depression, OCD, and more, inaccurate information exists that may prevent people from seeking help.
Below we will highlight and dispel some of the most common myths associated with TMS.
Myth #1 – TMS Treatment is not covered by insurance
TMS Treatment is widely covered by most major insurance companies. At Relief Mental Health, we verify coverage and review your insurance benefits before your treatment begins, making sure you know the cost before starting.
In general, TMS is an affordable option for all. In addition, Relief Mental Health offers many different payment options with financing if needed.
Myth #2 – TMS Treatment is shocking my brain like ECT
Many people confuse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Treatment with Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT). Confusing the two is understandable as both are forms of treatment used to help patients treat depression, but this is the only thing that these have in common.
While ECT uses an electrical current to stimulate the entire brain, TMS Treatment uses magnetic pulses to strengthen your brain’s ability to relay the signals you need to regulate mood and behavior. Treatment is non-invasive, safe, and allows patients to return to normal daily activities after.
TMS is determined safe by the National Institute of Health and is FDA-approved as a treatment for Major Depressive Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. TMS is also safely used for smoking cessation and other disorders including anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and more.
Myth #3 – TMS Treatment effects wear off in time
Clinical trials funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) found that 50% of patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression responded significantly to TMS, and 33% went into complete remission.
There have also been multiple QEEG and Petscans images of patients before and after TMS Treatment that physical changes to the communication of their neurotransmitters, and numerous research studies prove physical changes in the brain.
Myth #4 – TMS Treatment is time consuming
While some TMS treatment centers take an hour per session, Relief Mental Health patients are in and out of the office in less than 30 minutes.
Our treatment team is dedicated to making TMS an option for even the busiest patients. We have multiple convenient locations and offer evening and weekend appointments. And, as a non-invasive treatment, you can return to normal daily activities after.
Myth #5 – TMS is not safe and has many adverse side effects
Across many research and clinical studies, there is no evidence of TMS being an unsafe form of therapy. TMS Treatment is well tolerated by most patients and has not shown evidence of severe or adverse reactions.
In addition, there are no known long-term side effects as a result of TMS Treatment. The most common short-term side effect is temporary scalp discomfort near the site of treatment and the potential of a minor headache. These usually resolve within the first week or two of treatment
Myth #6 – TMS causes personality changes
TMS doesn’t change your personality. However as depression symptoms begin to lift, you may notice increased energy levels, better concentration, a rekindled passion for old hobbies, and a general sense of peace or serenity.
TMS Treatment at Relief Mental Health
If you are struggling with depression and not getting relief from your current treatments, reach out to Relief Mental Health today at 630-974-6602 or via the form below. With offices throughout Illinois, Wisconsin, and New Jersey, our medical team will design a treatment plan that works for you and your schedule.
Contact Us
"*" indicates required fields
