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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 quick reply; it meant a lot. 🙂
I have my annual physical next week, at which time I will discuss with my doctor that my antidepressant is starting to wain (the one who we both agreed to get me back on - Effexor- which had worked in the past, but now not so much.) I’ve been on about 8 different antidepressants since 1991, some of which worked ok, and others not. I’ve also struggled since that time with anxiety, and have been on Alprazolam all of these 30 years....for me a total blessing and huge help! I had a bad depression day today. Depression is so frustrating!
I am ready to get back to business with finding a new counselor (I think I’ll go with a Psychiatrist) as I need psychotherapy, along with starting to exercise (I admit I’m lazy about this!) and also very interested in TMS. Would love input from others who’ve recently had TMS, and does anyone have a Therapist in the Valley (Phoenix) that they would recommend? Or who have had TMS done in Phoenix?
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2 ReactionsHI, @phxlife - depression is frustrating - you are right. Sounds like you have some wise plans with looking to find a new counselor, doing some exercise, talking to your doctor about the antidepressant that is not controlling your symptoms as well, and looking into transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
I'd also like you to meet @parus @merpreb @jenniferhunter and @grandmar, who may also have some input on TMS.
What are you thinking of doing for exercise, @phxlife?
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1 ReactionI feel good that I’m being proactive as I want a better quality of life. I know food makes a huge difference, too, and while overall I eat healthy, I can amp things up in that department too.
As for what exercise I plan to get, two things: walking 3x/week for starters, and my goal is to go hiking in the mountains 1x/week. We live within 15-20 minutes of numerous trailheads.
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2 ReactionsI am really wanting to know if anyone out there has had TMS specifically in the Phoenix metro? And if so, with which doctor and facility.
@phxlife - you might call Mayo Clinic in the Phoenix metro, ask for Psychiatry and inquire about TMS availability. @laura has also talked about getting care (neurology) in the Phoenix area and might have some input, and @spurcey1 has talked about care in the Phoenix area and may also have some thoughts as you look for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). @newlifesociety is also in the Phoenix metro, I believe, and may have some input.
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1 ReactionI have thoroughly checked out Mayo’s mental health doctors, as well as others in the valley. So I know there are many to choose from regarding getting TMS, as well as counseling. I was just hoping someone had a reference. 🙂
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2 ReactionsHi All!
I saw a commercial on TV for TMS for mental health issues.
https://drstubbeman.com/what-is-tms/?gclid=CjwKCAjw04vpBRB3EiwA0Iieah8fOeoC-SQTMh_hNPyQU2mybBX8cW_N5CHgJmGGZTGeRVuRIlW-QBoCMgYQAvD_BwEI know there are many of us who are looking for something other than meds or even convulsive therapy.
I really don't know much about this therapy other than what little I read.
I thought this might be of interest to some.
Has anyone tried this type of therapy?????
Have a great day!
Ronnie (GRANDMAr)
Hi, @grandmar - you'll note I moved your post to this discussion on Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) so that you can connect with others who discussed this topic. Hoping that members in this discussion like @phxlife @jancer2017 @kimmym @stup will share their experiences related to TMS and their thoughts on its benefits and any drawbacks. @merpreb @godsgirl1969 @charlie75 also may have some input for you on this therapy.
Is this something you are considering for yourself, grandmar?
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1 Reaction@lisalucier
Hi!
No, I am not considering this for myself. I saw it and thought there might be someone who would be interested. I know many members are trying to come off Effexor and this just might be an option.
Ronnie
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1 ReactionI have had this therapy. I think it worked for awhile but not long.