Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for long-term depression

Posted by Bax @tbaxter33, Mar 16, 2018

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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Profile picture for clutch @clutch

Just started my Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS). Would like to hear from others who have had this experience. Thanks!

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Hi, I had 31 TMS treatments, just shy of the 36 my Dr wanted. I found no change in my depression. I hope you are one of the lucky ones that the treatment helps.

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Profile picture for clutch @clutch

Just started my Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS). Would like to hear from others who have had this experience. Thanks!

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I did TMS. Total waste of time and money. Did not help me at all

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Profile picture for bfunkyf @bfunkyf

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?

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@bfunkyf. Please update...did you complete TMS?
I dont think that being in remission is good criteria for TMS, and am trying to make a decision in my own similar situation.

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Profile picture for pagely @pagely

@bfunkyf. Please update...did you complete TMS?
I dont think that being in remission is good criteria for TMS, and am trying to make a decision in my own similar situation.

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yes would like to hear more on this TMS

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Profile picture for Randy Shields @randallshields56

yes would like to hear more on this TMS

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@randallshields56 I'm not sure. Are you a TMS rep?

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Profile picture for pagely @pagely

@randallshields56 I'm not sure. Are you a TMS rep?

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@pagely I read up on the magnet therapy and would imagine for some it might be helpful, magnets have been used for many things , i wore a back brace with and for magnetic therapy, could not tell you if it helped or not. as to mind and brain activity usage i would want to see studies of people testing it first and opinions of many users prior to trying it myself.

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