Top 12 Myths about TMS Therapy Debunked

On the internet, there are numerous therapies-related myths. For instance, some people hold the belief that it is a new, unproven treatment, while others hold the belief that Transcranial Magnetic Therapy (TMS) is only beneficial to patients whose previous treatments have failed.

Our best psychiatrists in California are here to dispel these misunderstandings and provide clarity to all readers who are interested in learning more about one of the most promising alternative mental health services like TMS currently available.

Myth 1: TMS treatment is new and untested.

Fact: Over the past two decades, TMS therapy has been around! Dr. Anthony Barker introduced the world to the first dependable transcranial magnetic stimulator in 1984. From that point forward, TMS has gone through different turns of events and applications, including the assessment of brain activity as well as the treatment of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, chronic pain, and other mental health ailments.  It is a depression treatment option that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Myth 2: The truth is that TMS therapy is only for people who have failed other treatments.

Fact: Patients who receive TMS therapy report significant improvements in their symptoms, demonstrating that it is an effective treatment for depression! So, if you want to treat your depression in a safe and effective way, TMS therapy might be a good option for you!

Myth 3: TMS is a “cash only” treatment that costs a lot. Insurance won’t cover this treatment.

Fact: In fact, most health insurance plans cover TMS if the patient meets the eligibility requirements. The majority of insurance companies will require that the patient has resisted two or more alternative depression treatments or medications in order to be eligible for TMS treatments. Naturally, our team will collaborate with anyone recommended for TMS and discuss coverage, costs, and reimbursement.

Myth 4: Daily completion of the TMS treatment takes too much time.

Fact: It is not accurate. Every day, the entire TMS procedure only takes 20 to 45 minutes.

Myth 5: TMS is dangerous and has numerous side effects.

Fact: The majority of patients tolerate TMS treatment well, and no severe or adverse effects have been observed in patients.

The most common side effect is a mild headache and temporary scalp discomfort at or near the treatment site. These momentary aftereffects resolve within the first 2-3 days of treatment. TMS treatment has been proven to be as safe and effective in pregnant patients and older patients as well.

Myth 6: TMS is invasive.

Fact: TMS therapy is a treatment that does not require any surgical procedures or the use of needles.

Myth 7: TMS therapy is ineffective.

Fact: TMS has been found to be safe and effective in patients with treatment-resistant depression including pregnant patients and elderly patients. It has achieved superior results in reducing suicidal ideation as well (1, 2)

Myth 8: TMS treatment necessitates hospitalization.

Fact: TMS is administered as an outpatient procedure. Patients do not require sedation during treatment because they remain awake. There is no specific downtime period, so you can get back to your routine life hereafter.

Myth 9: After one TMS treatment, I won’t be depressed.

Fact: TMS treatment is different for everybody. After one week, some people become energetic, while others do not. In some cases, improvement may not begin until week 5 or week 6. We encourage you to remain patient till you finish the treatment because everyone’s journey is unique.

Myth 10: Electroshock therapy and TMS are the same things.

Fact: TMS is nothing similar to electroshock treatment, other than the way that the brain is involved. A series of painless magnetic pulses that stimulate new cognitive pathways is all that is required—no anesthesia, no convulsions, no mouth guards, and no memory loss.

Myth 11: TMS therapy leads to changes in personality.

Fact: The personality of a patient does not change as a result of TMS. The patient may just experience higher energy levels, better concentration, a revived enthusiasm for old interests, and a general feeling of harmony After receiving TMS treatment, patients are free to drive home. or quietness.

Myth 12: TMS might cause damage to your brain, cancers, or cognitive decline

Fact: TMS doesn’t harm brain cells and leads to brain damage, tumors, or cognitive decline. It makes use of the same kind of magnetic energy as MRI technology does. However, compared to an MRI brain scan, the amount of magnetic energy used in a TMS therapy treatment course is only a small fraction.

Final Thoughts

TMS is an effective treatment for mental health issues, particularly depression, despite the myths. Although the name sounds a little scary, we assure you there is no need to feel scared. The side effects of psychiatric ailments, in our perspective, are a lot more frightening!

If you have any questions about any mental health service like TMS therapy, please do not hesitate to contact us for direct consultation. At Sacramento Neuro Psych Associates, you can come across the best psychiatrists in California who can effectively treat children and adults undergoing mental health issues. We can also assist you in starting the recovery process.

Book your appointment with a psychiatrist today.