Living with depression can feel like navigating a maze with no exit sign in sight. For those who’ve tried therapy and medications but still feel stuck, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers a fresh path forward. At AIM, we’re excited to provide TMS as part of our integrated mental health approach, where we support your mental wellness with a comprehensive toolkit of evidence-based treatments. If you are interested in getting scheduled for a consult, click here! If you’d like to learn more…well, just keep reading as we dive into the world of TMS and see how this innovative approach could help you reclaim your mental health.

What is Major Depressive Disorder?

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)—often just called “depression”—is a serious mental health condition that goes beyond feeling down or having a rough week. It’s a persistent state of sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in activities that typically lasts for at least two weeks. For some, MDD affects almost every part of life, from work or school to relationships and physical health. People with MDD often find it challenging to engage in daily activities, and it can sometimes feel like a constant uphill battle.

MDD is, unfortunately, very common. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, over 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression. In the United States alone, about 17 million adults experience a major depressive episode each year, making it one of the leading causes of disability. It’s not just a passing feeling; for those dealing with MDD, it can feel nearly impossible to shake off without support.

This is where Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) comes in as an effective treatment option. Unlike medications that affect the entire body, TMS is highly targeted, stimulating the specific parts of the brain associated with mood and emotion. TMS has shown to be particularly helpful for people with treatment-resistant depression—those who haven’t found relief with traditional therapies or medications. It’s non-invasive, has minimal side effects, and offers a new path for people who feel they’ve run out of options, making it a valuable alternative for managing MDD.

What is TMS?

Let’s start with the basics: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS is mainly used for mental health conditions like depression, especially when other treatments haven’t quite done the trick. Unlike medication, which affects the entire body, TMS specifically targets areas of the brain linked to mood and emotion, giving it a more focused, localized effect.

You won’t have to worry about anesthesia or “going under” for this—it’s a completely awake, in-office experience that allows you to leave feeling just as you did when you walked in, albeit with a refreshed brain!

How Does TMS Work?

So, how does TMS get to work? It’s all about magnetic pulses. During a TMS session, a device is placed on your scalp near the forehead, and it sends magnetic pulses directly to areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. These pulses aim to “wake up” under-active areas, essentially giving them a bit of a nudge to get back into gear.

In people with depression, certain parts of the brain can be less active. TMS uses magnetic fields to activate these specific areas, helping to restore balance and improve overall mood. Each session lasts around 20 to 40 minutes, and while it may take several sessions to see noticeable effects, many patients report improvements in mood and outlook over time.

Is TMS Used for Depression?

Absolutely! TMS is FDA-approved for treating major depressive disorder (MDD), especially in cases where traditional treatments like medication or talk therapy haven’t brought significant relief. Depression affects millions of people, and for some, finding the right treatment can feel like a trial-and-error process. TMS has shown promise as a viable option for those with treatment-resistant depression, offering hope to individuals who may have felt discouraged by other approaches.

The beauty of TMS is that it directly stimulates the areas of the brain responsible for mood regulation. Unlike medications, which can sometimes lead to unwanted side effects or require multiple adjustments, TMS offers a targeted approach with fewer side effects. Many people find it particularly helpful as an alternative or complement to other treatments, giving their depression symptoms a fresh approach.

When Should I Consider TMS?

You might be wondering if TMS is right for you. Here are some scenarios where TMS could be a fit:

• Other Treatments Haven’t Worked: If you’ve tried medication and therapy and still find yourself battling depression, TMS might offer the relief you’ve been seeking.

• Sensitivity to Medication: Not everyone responds well to antidepressants. If you’ve experienced side effects or felt that medications just weren’t for you, TMS provides a non-drug alternative.

• Need for a Targeted Approach: TMS directly stimulates specific brain regions involved in mood regulation, offering a more pinpointed approach compared to medications.

• Desire for a Non-Invasive Option: TMS doesn’t require surgery, sedation, or anesthesia. You remain fully awake, and sessions fit easily into a typical day without major disruption.

If any of these situations sound like you, TMS might be worth exploring further. Of course, a consultation with a mental health professional can help you determine if TMS aligns with your specific needs.

Is TMS Covered by Insurance?

Yes, TMS is often covered by insurance! Most insurance providers recognize TMS as a legitimate treatment for depression, especially for those who’ve tried other methods without success. While coverage varies, many plans will cover TMS therapy once criteria are met, such as proof of prior attempts with other treatment options.

At AIM, we believe that mental health care should be accessible, so we work with major insurance providers to make sure our patients can get the support they need. Our team can help you navigate the specifics of your insurance policy, determining any pre-approval requirements or steps to get started. Because let’s face it—financial concerns shouldn’t stand between you and effective mental health care.

Why AIM Offers TMS

Here at AIM, we believe that mental health is complex and deserves a thorough, multi-dimensional approach. Depression is rarely one-dimensional, and that’s why our treatment isn’t either. We see mental health as a blend of biological, psychological, and social factors, and our goal is to address each of these areas with our unique approach.

• Psychiatry for the Biology: Medications can be essential for balancing brain chemistry, helping alleviate symptoms for many people. Our psychiatry team works with you to manage medications as needed, keeping your biological health in check.
• Therapy for the Mind: Therapy is where you’ll unpack thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a supportive space, learning skills and strategies to manage daily challenges. We integrate therapy into your care plan to help address the mental and emotional layers of health.
• Evidence-Based Interventions Like TMS: TMS gives us another tool to directly address mood regulation, making it a great addition for those with treatment-resistant depression. It’s part of our commitment to using effective, research-backed methods that add value to your treatment journey.

With AIM’s integrated care model, we’re here to treat the whole person, not just isolated symptoms. That’s why TMS fits so well with our mission—we believe that providing options like TMS within a broader system of care allows us to give you the best chance at real, lasting change.

TMS in Raleigh

For those in Raleigh, North Carolina and the Triangle, AIM offers TMS treatment right in your backyard. We know that access to specialized treatments like TMS can sometimes feel limited, but we’re here to make sure it’s available to our community. Located in Raleigh, AIM provides TMS along with a full range of mental health services, so whether you’re looking for a single approach or a blend of therapies, we’ve got you covered.

Our Raleigh facility offers a welcoming and professional environment for TMS treatment, and our providers are trained in the latest techniques to ensure your safety and comfort. From your initial consultation to ongoing sessions, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, making TMS treatment convenient and accessible.

How Do I Get Started with TMS at AIM?

Ready to give TMS a try? Here’s how to get started with AIM:

• Reach Out: Contact us to schedule an initial consultation. Our team will help you understand the process and answer any questions you have about TMS.
• Consultation: During your consultation, we’ll review your mental health history, previous treatments, and discuss if TMS is a good fit for you. This step helps us ensure you’re getting the most effective care.
• Insurance Verification: We’ll work with your insurance provider to confirm coverage and take care of any pre-authorization requirements. Our goal is to make the financial side as smooth as possible.
• Start Treatment: Once you’re ready to go, you’ll start your TMS sessions. Each session typically lasts 20-40 minutes, and you’ll attend several times a week for a set period. Our team will be with you every step of the way, ensuring you’re comfortable and seeing progress.
• Monitor Progress: We’ll regularly check in with you to track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. You’re not in this alone—our team is here to support your journey to wellness.

Starting TMS can feel like a big step, but with AIM’s integrated care and dedicated team, you’re in good hands. We’re excited to help you explore this innovative approach to managing depression and reclaiming your mental health.

Alternative Depression Treatment with TMS in Raleigh

At AIM, we believe in giving our patients every tool possible to succeed in their mental health journey. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is one of those tools, providing a promising solution for treatment-resistant depression. Whether you’re a Raleigh local or connecting with us through telehealth, we’re committed to making sure you have access to all the resources you need to feel your best.

If you’re curious about TMS or wondering if it’s the right fit for you, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you explore your options, answer your questions, and guide you on the path to better mental health. Let’s take that next step together.