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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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In my 5th week of an 8 week Brainswat TMS treatment series ( each treatment lasts about 25 minutes and is painless).
I must say for me, it has be a major game changer!! - My depression/anxiety are gone and I look forward to each day with much more joy and energy.
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2 ReactionsExplain TMS please
I'm wondering if anyone has any recent experience with TMS treatments. From what I've read here, there are mixed results and effects. The last post I found was from 2019. Is it worth it?
Hi @flynnzie, you'll see that I moved your post to a discussion where you can meet and connect with members who are talking about TMS. There have been members who have posted this year. Have you tried anything so far?
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1 ReactionHad checked on this option but insurance did not cover and costly. Does anyone know if insurance is now covering TMS procedure?
I have Medicare and private insurance. I was getting solicitation calls after I first inquired.
In Fayetteville, NC, we have a health desert.
I would have to drive 5 times weekly, over 500 miles/week, for several weeks.
As of now, I'm going to focus on my Spravato treatments. I'm edging along, slowly making progress.
Good luck with your quest.
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2 ReactionsThanks Amanda.
I had started to look into TMS therapy last year, but cancelled at the last minute. Now that my meds aren't as effective, I'm looking for away to boost the underlying sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. It comes out of the blue, usually in the evening as the sun goes down. It's much worse in the winter, but it's still happening, along with worsening of other symptoms. Due to the shortage of therapists, I have been unable to find traditional therapy.
I just called my insurance company, and the representative had no idea of what TMS therapy is, and assured me that it would be a $5.00 copay. I don't believe it:) I've heard that the sessions which vary from one person to another come with a hefty price tag, and results may or may not be effective.
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2 ReactionsHi Shirley,
I agree about the solicitation calls, and also got them and still do occasionally from over a year ago:) Always suspect to me. Could you tell me what Spravato treatments are?
Medicare covers it, and most other insurance as well from my brief check on the internet. The copay is what I want to know about 🙂 You might try calling your insurance company and hopefully get connected to a representative who is knowledgeable.
I just tried and will probably call again later to see if I get the same answer 🙂
The fact that these TMS treatment centers are so assertive in acquiring patients makes me feel that this is very lucrative for them, and nothing is guaranteed. My 'Spidey' senses are tingling.
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3 ReactionsYes, many insurances are now covering TMS. At least the once daily over several weeks. To my knowledge insurance is not covering the stanfird protocol which is multiple treatments over the course of one week
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