Major Depressive Disorder (depression) is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States, affecting millions of Americans. In 2022, depression was estimated to affect approximately 18% of adults in California.
Treatment options like medication and psychotherapy can help, but for those who have treatment-resistant depression (TRD), these options can fall short. Brain stimulation treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) are specifically designed to bring relief to those with persistent depression. TMS Treatment in Costa Mesa offers hope and a new option for the millions suffering from depression in California.
How TMS Therapy Works
TMS is an FDA-approved treatment that uses electromagnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation and executive function. An electromagnetic coil placed on the scalp emits pulses to activate those regions that typically show low activity levels in those with depression.
By promoting brain activity, TMS can support neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to form connections, like when learning a new skill, and adapt, like when changing behavior. Supporting this essential brain function helps patients shift depressive patterns and reach results.
By targeting and activating the areas of the brain where depression “lives,” TMS can provide long-lasting relief from depression symptoms, especially for those with TRD.
Advanced Options: Saint TMS Therapy
Another FDA-approved approach to relieving depression symptoms is SAINT TMS. Saint TMS Therapy in Costa Mesa offers a faster, individualized method for feeling better.
SAINT TMS uses advanced techniques to customize treatment to the individual’s needs. Using functional MRI (fMRI), they can map and target specific areas of the brain that are functioning less and need attention. Identifying specific needs for each individual builds on traditional TMS to provide a more effective treatment.
Similar to traditional TMS, SAINT TMS uses a magnetic coil to deliver magnetic pulses, but it mirrors the brain’s natural rhythm to work quicker and more effectively. This shortens the treatment time from several weeks to five days.
The quicker and more direct advanced technique is a good option to consider for those with severe depression, TRD, or those with a tighter schedule.
Why TMS is Becoming the Preferred Option
Medication is not always the best fit. Finding the right prescription can be difficult and often comes with side effects and constant adjustments. For someone with depression, managing medication can be extremely hard, and even more discouraging with TRD.
TMS therapy for depression in Costa Mesa supports long-term mental health without the need for prescriptions. The treatment itself has minimal side effects that can be managed with over-the-counter medication before the next session.
TMS is typically performed in a doctor’s office because it’s a non-invasive treatment that doesn’t require sedation or hospital stays. Patients can return to their day after treatment, including driving and returning to work, so there’s minimal disruption to their schedule.
Most importantly, TMS can work alongside psychotherapy and healthy lifestyle changes to support a holistic care plan.
Who’s a Good Candidate for TMS?
TMS therapy can benefit those who suffer from severe depression or have TRD and have struggled to find results with prescriptions and talk therapy.
Because it does not rely on pharmaceuticals, TMS therapy can also be a good option for those with drug sensitivities or who are looking for an alternative to lifelong medication plans.
Whether it’s you or a loved one, TMS therapy was designed to help patients struggling to find results. It provides an alternative option for those suffering from depression and an option for those looking for something that fits within their lifestyle.
A New Standard for Depression Relief
TMS therapy and SAINT TMS are the new standard for depression relief. They provide targeted and personalized treatment with proven success in patients.
Getting evaluated is the first step toward long-lasting results and resilience. Costa Mesa’s mental health care is offering that opportunity to the millions of people in California who suffer today, but don’t have to suffer tomorrow.
Written in partnership with Tom White
