Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy is gaining popularity as an empowering way to treat your mental health without the need for medication. Many people who have tried traditional treatments, such as antidepressants or other psychiatric procedures, may have experienced unwanted side effects that made the treatment unbearable and made it difficult to balance mental health with physical wellness.
TMS therapy is alleviating this challenge, offering mental health benefits through an innovative, non-invasive procedure with fewer risks and side effects. Our experienced clinicians at Precise Mind are here to guide you every step along your path to wellness, including helping you understand the safety and side effects of TMS therapy.
TMS treatment is considered safe and generally well-tolerated by most people. It was cleared by the FDA in 2008 to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxious depression in adults. It is also FDA-cleared to treat MDD in adolescents aged 15 or older.
At Precise Mind, our practice is committed to providing safe, evidence-based, and effective treatments for adults and adolescents seeking mental health care. We believe effective treatment starts with a trusting relationship between patients and providers, so please do not hesitate to let us know if there is anything you would like to discuss regarding TMS safety, side effects, or anything else prior to beginning treatment.
If you have tried traditional treatments for depression, you may have encountered unpleasant side effects. Medications, such as antidepressants, often come with a long list of potential side effects that make it difficult to balance mental and physical health. Sometimes, the effects of medication can make treatment intolerable.
TMS therapy has fewer side effects than traditional depression treatments. Studies show that TMS therapy has no effect on weight, energy level, sleep, concentration, or memory (George et al., 2010). While TMS treatments can come with moderate side effects, they are typically mild, resolve quickly, and decrease as you continue sessions. Side effects for TMS therapy can include:
The procedure is performed at our Flowood office, and it does not require anesthesia or sedation, which means you can resume daily activities immediately after your session, including driving yourself home. Our team is happy to provide more information regarding what to expect during TMS treatments, its safety profile, and any side effects that you may experience.
TMS therapy is widely regarded as a safe procedure with few risks and side effects. However, as with any medical procedure, it may not be suitable for everyone. TMS is not recommended for individuals with certain magnetic implanted devices, such as cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, or pacemakers. The TMS magnetic fields may interfere with these devices and cause complications.
Some individuals interested in TMS therapy may have concerns about whether TMS treatments can cause seizures. The risk of seizures with TMS is extremely low, occurring in less than 0.1 percent of individuals (Rossi et al., 2009). This risk is even lower for those who do not have a history of seizures. Be sure to discuss your full medical history with our team, including any drug or alcohol use, so we can ensure your safety during treatments.
If you struggle with your mental health, you are not alone. with offices in Flowood, Vicksburg, Ridgeland, our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey toward wellness. Our goal is to provide safe, comprehensive care that is tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about the safety and side effects of TMS therapy and find out if this advanced mental health treatment is right for you.