More than 40 million adults in the U.S. experience mental health conditions, and anxiety disorders are among the most common. Each year, about 1 out of 20 Americans struggles with an anxiety disorder such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder or social anxiety. Psychotherapy and medications can be effective at treating these conditions; however many patients still seek effective, alternative methods like TMS for stress to add to their treatment plan.
TMS For Stress Treatment: What Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved noninvasive procedure that uses a focused electromagnetic field to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is a safe, painless procedure with minimal side effects that has been available since the 1990s.
TMS For Stress Treatment: How Does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Work?
To perform TMS, a healthcare professional places a round coil on the patient’s head near the part of the brain that appears to be related to the patient’s symptoms. The coil produces rapid, forceful magnetic pulses for about 20 minutes, five times a week over a period of six to eight weeks.
TMS For Stress Treatment: What Are The Benefits Of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?
Unlike medications and other traditional treatments for anxiety and depression, TMS has few to no side effects, and it does not appear to cause withdrawal symptoms when used to treat anxiety disorders.
TMS For Stress Treatment: What Conditions Can TMS Be Used To Treat?
The FDA has approved the use of TMS to treat adults with major depressive disorder that is resistant to at least one antidepressant medication. The FDA has also approved TMS for use in adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder when accompanied by depression, and for treatment of adult patients who have panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
To Conclude
TMS is a safe, noninvasive procedure that has few to no side effects and can be used in combination with medications or psychotherapy to treat anxiety disorders. Learn more about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and the conditions it can treat by getting in touch with us today at info@psyfitms.com or visit www.psyfitms.com
