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Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for long-term depression
Does anyone have any experience with TMS therapy for long term depression? I have fought the demons of depression for years. Some days are better than others, but finding the emotional energy to do anything other than go to work and do the job is next to impossible most of the time now. I have been on several different medications over the years. I can't say that any particular one made a notable difference at all. I am continually frustrated with a lack of energy and a lack of desire to do the things that I once enjoyed, and that I had looked forward to at this stage of life. Every day, I pretty much feel like "this is it" -- as good as it is ever going to get -- and the opportunity of any meaningful contribution of life is over -- done -- finished. Retirement is something that I longed for over the years. As it draws nearer, I fear it because I see myself just fading away and soon gone. So, I ask about TMS therapy. It is very expensive, requires a huge time committement, and is not covered by medical insurance. I have spoken with doctors (psychiatrists) at a couple of top hospitals in the nation and have not gotten stellar reports from them. The consensus was that it works for some but not for others and the success rates are fair at best overall. Having said that, my doc says they have seen amazing results from the therapy and people complete it and the negative thoughts are pretty much gone. He says their success rate is extremely high. I have not done it because: a) too much time away from work; b) too costly and not covered by medical insurance; c) the reports from two docs from world known excellent institutions which were not glowing. I have searched for answers for years, with none. Now, I have developed chronic pain in the lumbar area, legs, neck, shoulders, arms, etc. I am working on the back with a major pain managment group with some injections which I hope will help.
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Thank you for your compassion support and understanding. I’m also going to do some research on this and discuss with my doctor. Hugs 🤗
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1 ReactionHave you considered Spravato/ketamine? It is really good for PTSD. Again, everyone is different but keep trying and I am sure you bc will find what works for you
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1 ReactionI have had TMS sessions, 36 of them. I cannot say enough good about them. I highly recommend the treatment. My success was so obvious to my friends and family.
God bless you !!
Jackie
My former neurologist advised me to begin TMS treatments over a year ago. After about a dozen sessions without any noticeable effects, she altered the area of stimulation and told me I would need two dozen more treatments. After eight more treatments, I discontinued treatments and sought out another neurologist. I have Parkinson's Disease, which I why I was seeing a neurologist in the first place. My major depression is mostly a result of severe childhood PTSD, exacerbated while I was a combat Marine in Vietnam. I have also been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The only thing I got from seeing this quack was a dependence in the benzodiazapines she prescribed for me. When I stopped seeing her, I abruptly stopped taking the benzos which caused other problems. I'm currently not taking any medication at all, not even for PD. I do have mood swings, but stopping the benzos likely caused them to worsen. I'm working through my depression with a clinical social worker and making good progress. Perhaps TMS helps some people, but I view it a way for doctors to make some easy money. I'll stick to regular exercise, a healthy diet, plenty of sleep, and lots of social support. And the talk therapy helps a lot.
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2 ReactionsHi! Did you have the device implanted in your chest? What effects did you feel as soon as it was working? Have they remained consistent? I have tried ECT and Ketamin, but not TMS yet. Thank you!
I had two rounds of TMS. The first time I got relief from my persistent depression for maybe 6 months. The second time failed completely. Good luck to you.
Dear @phxlife
I found doing the GeneSight test to be extremely beneficial. It quickly helped me see which meds would metabolize best in my body and which ones I shouldn’t use. No more throwing darts at the wall to pick a med.
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1 ReactionI tried TMS. It didn’t work for me. I’ve had lifelong major clinical depression and PTSD. I went through a series of treatments and then just stopped. They tried to convince me that it was working but it. Just wasn’t.
Good luck. Hang in there.
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1 Reaction@lcb24 Nothing is implanted. It is a device placed against your head. I suggest a Google search for info.
I just started TMS this week, have had 4 sessions. So far just a slight headache.
My depression is currently controlled by meds, which I have been on for YEARS, sometimes lower dosage, sometimes higher. Since it is Cymbalta, it is way difficult to get off. I also have PTSD, ADHD and rheumatoid arthritis. Doc says this will help with PTSD anxiety, brain fog and pain. When will I know if it is helping? Esp. Since current.depression is controlled?