As we venture deeper into the 21st century, one thing is clear: the world of psychiatry is constantly evolving. This is excellent news for those who have found themselves grappling with the debilitating effects of depressive disorders. One of the most promising of these developments is a treatment known as Accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). In this post, we will break down what Accelerated TMS is and how it can provide relief for treatment-resistant depression.
To put it simply, Accelerated TMS is an advanced form of a treatment known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Traditional TMS involves delivering magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive regions of the brain that are often impacted in depressive orders.
Now, you may wonder, what makes Accelerated TMS "accelerated"? The answer is in the treatment schedule. Accelerated TMS is exactly what it sounds like – a quicker, more accessible alternative to standard TMS. Applying more than one TMS treatment per day, accelerated TMS shortens the duration of the treatment course. Instead of the typical 36 sessions delivered one session per day over about an 8-week period as seen in traditional TMS, the accelerated version compacts this schedule significantly. The sessions are delivered multiple times per day over a much shorter period. This difference could be important to those seeking faster relief from their symptoms.
You can think of TMS as a way to 'wake up' underactive parts of the brain that might be contributing to depressive symptoms. According to clinical studies, individuals suffering from depression exhibit decreased activity in a specific brain region known as the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) when compared to individuals who do not have depression. The magnetic pulses stimulate these areas, promoting improved brain function and can ultimately reduce symptoms of depression.
Despite the complex mechanisms underlying this procedure, it's important to note that TMS is non-invasive. There are no surgical incisions or implants involved. Thus, patients can benefit from this technology's advanced capacity to alleviate depressive symptoms without the physical intrusion associated with many other treatment options.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of TMS for treating depression, and more recent research suggests that Accelerated TMS holds promise too. Most people tolerate TMS treatments well, and since it's non-invasive, it has fewer side effects than other depression treatments like medication or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). However, as with any treatment, it's crucial to discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
Accelerated TMS can be a promising, fast-paced treatment option for those who have been resistant to other forms of treatment. If you are considering accelerated TMS, I encourage you to request a consultation here.