When it comes to recovery and treatment options, it can be very important to remain open-minded. There is a tendency for some people to want to stay in one lane of recovery, as that is what has either worked for them in the past or it is the only type of recovery that they are familiar with. This is understandable. Recovery can be scary, so familiarity can be very comforting. The issue with this tactic, however, is that it eliminates the possibility of discovering any new treatments that may boost their daughter’s recovery. One of these new treatments could be transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy (TMS).
What Exactly Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy?
Now, it is also understandable that even the name of TMS therapy sounds a little “space-aged” and intimidating. However, it is actually much more accessible than its name lets on. So then, what exactly is TMS?
TMS is a treatment that falls under the category of brain stimulation therapies. It is a non-invasive procedure that utilizes electromagnetic pulses. These pulses stimulate nerve cells and, in turn, cause nerve cells to react in such a way that has been shown to improve symptoms of physical, neurological, and mental health disorders.
The procedure itself is not that complicated. A technician utilizes a magnetic coil to create electromagnetic pulses toward the front area of an individual’s head. These electromagnetic pulses last roughly 30 to 60 minutes, and once completed there are no additional steps to take and an individual can go about their day-to-day activities.
Who Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy Best Suited For?
According to the article “Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): Hope for Stubborn Depression” from Harvard Health Publishing, “While there are many effective treatments for depression, first-line approaches such as antidepressants and psychotherapy do not work for everyone. In fact, approximately two-thirds of people with depression don’t get adequate relief from the first antidepressant they try.” Also, “After two months of treatment, at least some symptoms will remain for these individuals, and each subsequent medication tried is actually less likely to help than the one prior.” This resistance to more ”traditional” treatments explains why TMS can be so effective.
TMS has been shown effectiveness in treating many types of disorders. People have used it for chronic pain, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease, smoking cessation, and even multiple sclerosis. However, it has now also been shown to be highly effective for treating issues of mental health.
The types of mental health issues that TMS is most effective in treating include:
- Depression (especially treatment-resistant depression)
- Anxiety disorders
- Life-controlling issues
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Also, in addition to PTSD, TMS has shown promise in treating other issues caused by trauma.
What Are the Benefits of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy?
The good news about TMS is that there are very few side effects, and that is just one of the benefits that this treatment has to offer. Some of the other benefits of TMS include:
- It is minimally involved and sessions are short
- There are very few physical side effects (in rare cases, people have reported slight headaches)
- Lowers stress levels in some individuals
- It can increase cognitive functioning (in other words, it can “clear the mind”)
- May be an excellent alternative to mental health medications that have become ineffective
In addition, there have also been minimal reports of any lasting negative side effects. This means that, while it may not be effective for everyone, the use of TMS will not bring any harm. Ultimately, the potential upside is worth the try.
What Are the Limitations of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy?
Now, as with any other treatment modality, TMS also has its limitations. Some of these limitations are as follows:
- Some individuals have reported experiencing some sleeplessness
- It is not available or accessible in all areas
- Many insurances will not cover TMS
- TMS can be expensive
- It can be hard to find a TMS specialist
- TMS is not “evidence-based,” and therefore some mental health specialists remain skeptical
- Is not for anyone with a history of seizures or those who take any stimulant medications (such as ADHD medication)
The Importance of Comprehensive Mental Health Care at Clearview Girls Academy
Here at Clearview Girls Academy, we are proud to be able to offer our students the unique opportunity to utilize TMS for their recovery. Also, for the students that TMS does not fit their needs, we have an extensive array of treatment options at our recovery center.
Here at Clearview Girls Academy, we believe in comprehensive care. One-note recovery rarely seems to work, because it does not take the individual into account, rather only their disorder. We see our students as people first and foremost because at the end of the day being seen and heard is something that everyone needs and deserves.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy (TMS) is one of the unique treatment modalities we offer here at Clearview Girls Academy. We have found that this non-invasive treatment has been highly beneficial in stress management, increased focus and concentration, as well as relief from issues relating to anxiety and depression. While it may not be effective for everyone, for those individuals that respond to TMS, it can be a positive game changer for their recovery journey. If you feel like your daughter may be struggling with issues of mental health or life-controlling issues, we can help. For more information on TMS and the other treatment modalities that we offer, please reach out to Clearview Girls Academy today at (888) 796-5484.
