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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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Are you positive that your medical insurance won't pay for this, or at least a large percentage of it? I have Medicare and an AARP UnitedHealthCare supplement. And I know that those plans would cover it.
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2 ReactionsThank you we are running it thru insurance waiting to here! God bless! Thank you!
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1 ReactionDid not help me but everyone responds differently.
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1 ReactionHello. I have had 2 complete cycles of TMI. Unfortunately, I had no relief from my depression. I know a lot of people have found it very beneficial. Fortunately, my treatment was covered by insurance.
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1 ReactionAppreciate the link.
Hope you're doing well in this New Year.
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1 ReactionCompletely resolved depression and as side benefit, no alcohol for 1.5 yrs following treatment
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4 ReactionsSo very very happy for you!!
How many weeks?
How long each session?
One time only doing?
How long has it been since treatment?
Any side effects during treatment?
Thank you greatly for your time!!
Hi! I have been diagnosed with Treatment Resistant Depression, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. I tried 2 rounds of it and it did not help at all.
I am so very sorry to hear. Take good care of you!
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1 ReactionMay I ask how many weeks, time per session, and any side effects during treatment?
Also when did you first notice difference of feeling better?
Appreciate your time!
Thank you!!