by Brain Health Center | Sep 20, 2023 | TMS Articles, TMS Therapy Articles
TMS treatment can be a game-changer for treating conditions like depression or anxiety. Whether you’ve heard of it and want to learn more or your doctor recommended it to you as a treatment option, you’re in the right place.
Preparing for TMS therapy is a bit like gearing up for a journey; you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed all the essentials, know the route, and are ready for any bumps along the way.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your TMS treatment — from initial consultations and pre-treatment assessments to day-of preparations and what to expect during and after the treatment.
Buckle up, and let’s dive in. Your roadmap to a successful TMS journey starts right here!
What Is TMS Therapy?
TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, right? But it’s actually a pretty cool and legit medical treatment. Imagine this: a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Yep, no surgery, no anesthesia, nada. Just a magnetic coil placed near your head.
Why do we do this? Well, its primary use is for treating conditions like depression, especially when other treatments like medication and psychotherapy haven’t been effective. It’s also being explored for other conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and even chronic pain.
So, how does it work?
The magnetic pulses stimulate specific areas of the brain that are involved in mood regulation. Think of it like jump-starting a car’s battery but for your brain. The idea is to activate those sluggish neurons and re-fire them properly. It’s all about rebalancing the brain’s chemistry and electrical activity.
The best part? It’s generally well-tolerated. You might feel a little discomfort or tingling during the procedure, but that’s about it. No systemic side effects like you’d get with medication. You’re in and out of the clinic and can go about your day as usual afterward.
Of course, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s crucial to have a thorough evaluation to see if TMS is the right fit for you. And it’s usually part of a broader treatment plan that could include medication or therapy.
4 Ways to Prepare for TMS Treatment
When it comes to TMS therapy, preparation is key. Think of it like prepping for a big game or an important presentation; the more prepared you are, the better the outcome will be.
From medical assessments to medication interactions and your mental and physical state, preparing for your TMS therapy session will help you get the most out of it.
There are four primary ways you can prepare for TMS treatment.
Let’s take a closer look.
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider
It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before trying something new, especially if you take medications or have underlying medical conditions that you’re worried about.
Most healthcare providers will walk you through a suitability assessment, evaluate your risk, and help you come up with a personalized treatment plan that will work best for you. This is often done in conjunction with your TMS provider.
- Suitability assessment: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your medical history, current health status, and the nature of your symptoms to determine if TMS is a suitable treatment option. They’ll consider factors like the severity of your condition, how well you’ve responded to other treatments, and any other medical issues you might have.
- Risk evaluation: TMS is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it comes with its own set of risks and potential side effects. Your healthcare provider will assess whether you’re at higher risk for complications, such as if you have a history of seizures or if you have any implants that could be affected by magnetic fields.
- Personalized treatment plan: TMS isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. The parameters like frequency, intensity, and duration of the magnetic pulses will be adjusted to better suit your needs. Your healthcare provider will help tailor the treatment plan to maximize its effectiveness for your specific condition.
- Medication review: If you’re already on medication for depression, anxiety, or any other condition, your healthcare provider will review these to see if any adjustments are needed. Some medications might interact with TMS, and it’s crucial to get this sorted out before starting treatment.</span
- Setting expectations: Your healthcare provider will give you a realistic idea of what to expect from the treatment. This includes potential outcomes, the number of sessions you might need, and any side effects you should be aware of. Knowing what to expect helps you make an informed decision and prepares you mentally and emotionally for the treatment.
2. Pre-treatment Assessments
We recommend a psychiatric evaluation, a medical history review, and informed consent for pre-treatment assessments.
- A psychiatric evaluation is a good idea to confirm your diagnosis and assess how severe your symptoms are. These evaluations involve a detailed interview and standardized questionnaires to evaluate your mental health status.
- Reviewing your medical history and a physical examination will rule out any contraindications or potential risks.
- Informed consent ensures you fully understand the treatment’s risks and benefits.
3. Medication and Lifestyle Adjustments
You might not need to make any changes to your medications or lifestyle. It depends on what your life looks like. But if you do need to, those changes can look something like this:
- Antidepressants: If you’re already on antidepressants, your healthcare provider might adjust the dosage or even ask you to continue as is. The key is to avoid any interactions that could affect the TMS treatment.
- Anti-anxiety meds: Some anti-anxiety medications have sedative effects, which might interfere with the TMS process. Consult your healthcare provider for possible adjustments.
- Stimulants: Medications like Adderall or Ritalin can affect brain activity, so your healthcare provider might recommend adjustments to ensure the TMS treatment is effective.
4. Day-of Preparation
Here are the steps we recommend taking to ensure you’re as prepared as possible for your first — and every — TMS treatment.
- Arrival time: Aim to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early. This gives you time to relax, complete any last-minute paperwork, and mentally prepare for the session.
- Meal timing: Have a balanced meal about 1-2 hours before your session. You don’t want to go in hungry, but you also don’t want to be too full.
- Bring your ID and insurance: You never know when you might need to confirm your details.
- Bring medical records: If it’s your first session or you’ve had any recent medical changes, bring any relevant medical records or medication lists.
- Bring comfort items: Some people like to bring comfort items like a small blanket or a stress ball. Check with the clinic to see what’s allowed.
- Wear comfy clothes: Wear loose, comfortable clothing since you’ll be sitting for a little while.
- Avoid facial skincare: The magnetic coil will be placed close to your scalp, so avoid using any heavy oils or creams on your head that day.
- Hydrate: Make sure you’re well-hydrated, but avoid excessive liquids right before the session to minimize the need for bathroom breaks.
- Avoid metal: Remember, TMS uses magnetic fields, so avoid clothing with metal zippers or buttons. Also, remove all jewelry, hairpins, and other metal objects.
- Know what to expect: Review materials or videos explaining the TMS process. Being familiar with what’s going to happen helps reduce anxiety.
- Relax: Consider doing some deep breathing exercises or a quick meditation session before you go in. The more relaxed you are, the smoother the treatment will go.
During the Treatment
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what happens during the actual TMS treatment. Think of this as your behind-the-scenes tour so you know exactly what to expect.
- What to expect: You’ll be in a comfortable chair in a treatment room. While it is a clinical setting, many places try to make it as relaxing as possible. The magnetic coil is the key piece of equipment used for TMS treatment. It’s placed close to your scalp. Once the machine is on, you’ll feel a tapping sensation on your scalp. While it isn’t painful, it might surprise you at first. You might also hear a clicking sound during the treatment. Some clinics give you earplugs or headphones so you don’t have to listen to it.
- Duration: Your first session will take longer because of the “brain mapping” that the technician will do to find the most effective treatment area. The length of your session will vary, depending on whether you’re doing traditional or accelerated TMS therapy.
- Side effects: You might notice some scalp discomfort or a mild headache right after the session, but this usually subsides fairly quickly. Short-term side effects usually include feeling mildly lightheaded or fatigued. Long-term effects are extremely rare.
Post-Treatment Care
So, you’ve crossed the finish line of your TMS session — what’s next? The post-treatment process. Let’s break it down:
- Immediate aftercare: Right after the session, you’ll likely spend a few minutes in the treatment room or a designated area for observation. This is to make sure you’re feeling okay and not experiencing any immediate side effects. Drinking some water and having a light snack is a good idea.
- Long-term follow-up: You’ll have regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to discuss your progress and any concerns you may have. Based on your response to the treatment will affect how your future treatments might be adjusted. This could mean changes in the frequency, intensity, or duration of the magnetic pulses.
- Monitoring results: You’ll likely be asked to track your symptoms using standardized scales or questionnaires. This helps to objectively measure how well the treatment is working. You’ll also have regular check-ins with your healthcare provider. Even if you’re feeling great, these are crucial for long-term success.
We’ve covered a lot of ground today, from understanding what TMS is all about to the finite details of preparing for your treatment. Remember, the journey to better mental health is a marathon, not a sprint, and TMS could be the boost you need to cross that finish line.
TMS Therapy With Brain Health Center
If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, there’s no better place to turn than Brain Health Center. Our team of experts are committed to providing personalized, effective TMS treatments tailored to your unique needs.
Don’t leave your mental well-being to chance; take control of your health today.
Whether you’re just starting to explore TMS treatment or are ready to schedule your first session, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Call us at 435.900.0123, email us at he***@*****hc.com, or visit our contact page for more information!
by Brain Health Center | Apr 19, 2023 | TMS Articles
If you’re currently experiencing depression, you can take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone. Depression is very common, affecting millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, while traditional antidepressant medications can effectively treat depression, they simply don’t work for everyone.
Have you taken antidepressants before but not responded well to them? If so, accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy is a promising treatment option. This non-invasive, personalized therapy has numerous benefits, including effectiveness, safety, fast treatment sessions, and long-lasting results.
Thankfully, many individuals are good candidates for this therapy. In this blog, I’m discussing the benefits of accelerated TMS therapy and how to determine if it’s right for you.
What Is Accelerated TMS for Depression?
I’m glad you asked. Accelerated TMS is non-invasive and FDA-approved. It uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is a type of repetitive TMS designed to deliver multiple pulses in a shorter period than traditional TMS.
Accelerated TMS treatment involves using a TMS machine, which will administer a series of electromagnetic pulses to a specific area of your brain. The pulses are delivered through a coil that’s placed on your scalp. The coil generates the magnetic field that passes through your skull and into your brain.
This stimulation activates the nerve cells in your brain. That activation can improve your mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. At the same time, it rebuilds your brain’s networks for long-term effectiveness.
Accelerated vs. Traditional TMS Therapy
So, what’s the difference between accelerated vs. traditional TMS therapy? Great question. Traditional TMS usually lasts for six weeks, while accelerated TMS lasts for one week. You’ll receive 10 treatments in one day instead of one treatment per day. Receiving all your treatments in one week means greater relief, faster.
Both traditional and accelerated TMS treatments come with a high pulse rate called a theta burst that speeds up sessions so they only last about five minutes.
There are lots of studies and clinical trials that show just how effective accelerated TMS is. Plus, some studies show that accelerated TMS is more effective than traditional TMS for treating depression. And TMS has fewer side effects than traditional antidepressants, which will be a breath of fresh air if this is something you’ve struggled with in the past.
Overall, accelerated TMS is a safe and effective treatment option if you’re suffering from depression and have not responded well to traditional antidepressant medications.
Let’s look at the benefits of accelerated TMS for depression.
Benefits of Accelerated TMS for Depression
Of course, you’ll want to know about the benefits of this treatment option. As it turns out, there are multiple benefits to accelerated TMS treatment. It’s effective, safe, non-invasive, fast, long-lasting, has fewer side effects, and is personalized to you.
- Effective: If accelerated TMS works for you, it can effectively improve your mood and alleviate some of your depression symptoms. In some cases, accelerated TMS is actually more effective than traditional antidepressants.
- Safe: If you’re looking for a safe treatment option, look no further. There are very few side effects for me to tell you about. The most common side effects include mild to moderate discomfort at the treatment site, headaches, and muscle twitching.
- Non-Invasive: You don’t need to go under anesthesia or sedation for accelerated TMS. The treatment is done on an outpatient basis, so you can get back to your day as soon as the treatment is over.
- Fast: Accelerated TMS therapy is fast. Sessions are shorter than traditional TMS, only lasting for one week, so you can quickly see improvement. This is great if you’re looking for fast relief for intense symptoms.
- Long-Lasting: You’ll be glad to know that the benefits of accelerated TMS can last long after you’ve completed treatment. Some studies have shown benefits lasting over a year.
- Fewer Side Effects: If you’ve experienced unpleasant side effects from antidepressants, you’ll be relieved to know that accelerated TMS doesn’t come with all those side effects.
- Personalized: Accelerated TMS therapy is tailored to your individual needs. The treatment is based on your specific symptoms and medical history. It’s designed to be customized to provide you with the best possible outcomes.
As you can see, accelerated TMS treatment has quite a few benefits. The only question is whether you’re a good candidate for it. Let’s discuss that now.
Am I A Good Candidate?
Accelerated TMS therapy is an effective and safe treatment for depression. However, not everyone suffering from depression is a good candidate for this therapy. I recommend discussing the following factors with your healthcare provider to determine if accelerated TMS for depression is a good treatment option for your depression.
- Previous treatment options: If you have tried several antidepressants without seeing any improvement in your symptoms, you may be a good candidate for accelerated TMS therapy.
- The severity of the depression: If you have moderate to severe depression, you are more likely to benefit from accelerated TMS therapy than those with mild depression.
- Medical history: If you have a history of seizures or other neurological disorders, you may not be a good candidate for accelerated TMS therapy. The same goes if you have metallic implants in your head or neck, such as pacemakers or cochlear implants.
- Other medical conditions: If you have another medical condition, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, you may not be a good candidate for this therapy.
- Willingness to undergo treatment: It is important to commit to the entire course of treatment, which usually involves 10 treatments per day for an entire week. If you cannot attend all of the sessions, you may not be a good candidate for this therapy.
Discussing these factors with your healthcare provider is the best way to determine whether accelerated TMS is right for you.
Accelerated TMS Therapy With Brain Health Center
If you’re considering accelerated TMS for depression treatment, contact Brain Health Center today. We’re experts in TMS therapy and can provide you with the care you need. We offer both traditional and accelerated TMS and would be happy to work with you to determine if this is a good treatment option.
Call us at 435.900.0123, or email us at he***@*****hc.com to get started on your journey with accelerated TMS therapy.
by Brain Health Center | Apr 12, 2023 | TMS Articles
With advancements in technology and medicine, treatments like TMS therapy are becoming available for mental health treatment. TMS therapy, or transcranial magnetic stimulation, uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells. It provides the brain with extra energy it can use to rebuild and reset its internal networks.
TMS therapy can be used in conjunction with medication or as an alternative treatment option if you don’t respond to medications for mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
TMS therapy is worth looking into if you suffer from depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and more. In today’s blog, we’re looking at seven things you should consider when deciding if TMS therapy is a good fit for you.
1. What Is TMS Therapy?
So, what is TMS therapy? Great question. As mentioned above, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in your brain. TMS is usually for psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
During the TMS therapy session, you’ll sit in a comfortable chair while a TMS machine is positioned over your head. The machine delivers magnetic pulses to a specific area of your brain, usually the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for regulating your mood and emotions.
The magnetic pulses create electrical currents in your brain to help activate or deactivate specific areas, depending on your individual needs. The goal of TMS therapy is to balance activity in the brain, whether that’s increasing or decreasing activity.
TMS therapy is typically administered in daily sessions that are between 20 to 30 minutes over several weeks. Advanced facilities are able to provide the same treatments in as little as five minutes over just one week. The number of sessions and the length of the treatment can vary depending on your individual needs and response to the therapy.
TMS therapy is non-invasive and does not require any anesthesia or sedation. You’ll remain awake and alert during the procedure and can return to your normal activities immediately after the session.
TMS therapy is a promising treatment option if you’re struggling with mental health conditions and haven’t seen results from medication or therapy.
2. Evaluate Your Symptoms
Before undergoing any mental health treatment, evaluating your needs is essential to determine if a treatment fits you. We’ll start by looking at the most common symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorders.
DEPRESSION
Depression is a common but serious mental health condition. You may have depression if you have persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that you once enjoyed. Depression can make you tired, steal your appetite, and disturb your sleep.
Genetics, brain chemistry, and trauma or loss can cause depression, which can be a debilitating condition that significantly impacts your quality of life. But I promise there is hope. Effective treatments are available, including medication, therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy.
ANXIETY
Anxiety is another common mental health condition. You may have anxiety if you feel intense worry, fear, and apprehension that can overwhelm and interfere with your daily life. Anxiety can also cause physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, and heart palpitations. Various factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, and life stressors, can cause it.
OCD
If you have OCD, you may have unwanted thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Both can cause significant distress and interfere with daily activities. It’s common to want things in a symmetrical or perfect order. Common OCD obsessions include fear of germs, unwanted thoughts about sex or religion, and aggressive thoughts toward yourself or others.
PTSD
PTSD symptoms usually begin within three months of a traumatic event but could emerge later. To be diagnosed with PTSD, your symptoms must last at least one month and be severe enough to interfere with daily life. Symptoms may include:
- Flashbacks and intrusive memories of the traumatic event
- Nightmares and trouble sleeping
- Severe anxiety, panic attacks, and hypervigilance
- Avoiding people, places, or things that remind you of the traumatic event
- Feeling numb, detached, or unresponsive
- Feeling irritable, angry, or easily frustrated
- Negative thoughts about yourself, others, or the world
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Being easily startled or frightened
- Physical symptoms, such as headaches or increased heart rate
BIPOLAR DISORDER
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme and unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity level, and concentration. These shifts can include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression), making it difficult to carry out day-to-day tasks. Bipolar can be chronic or episodic.
3. Speak With A Mental Healthcare Professional
Once you have identified your symptoms, speaking with a mental health professional who can provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatments is important.
This may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. If traditional treatments are ineffective, TMS therapy may be recommended as an alternative treatment option.
However, it is important to note that a diagnosis is not required to try TMS therapy. If you feel that TMS may be a good fit for you, you can get started right away.
4. Evaluate Your Medical History
It is important to evaluate your overall health and any medical conditions you may have. TMS therapy is an effective solution for many individuals but may not be safe for everyone; for example, if you’ve had metal placed in and around the brain, TMS may not be possible.
5. Lifestyle and Support System
Your lifestyle and support system are also factors to consider. TMS therapy requires a time commitment, with daily sessions over several weeks. Evaluating whether you have the time and resources to commit to the treatment is important.
Having a support system, such as a therapist, family, and friends, can be beneficial in managing the stress and emotions that may arise during the treatment process.
6. Incorporating TMS Therapy With Other Treatments
You can use TMS therapy in conjunction with other treatments like medication or therapy. TMS therapy can also be effective as a stand-alone treatment approach.
7. Selecting the Right TMS Therapy Provider
When considering TMS therapy, selecting the right provider is crucial to ensuring the best possible treatment outcome. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a TMS therapy provider:
- Experience and Credentials: Look for a provider with expertise in administering TMS therapy and who is properly licensed and credentialed to provide this treatment.
- Equipment and Facility: The quality of the equipment and facility can also play a role in the effectiveness of TMS therapy. Look for a provider who uses state-of-the-art equipment and operates in a safe and comfortable environment.
- Treatment Plan: A good TMS therapy provider will customize a treatment plan tailored to your needs. They will conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history and develop a treatment plan that is unique to you.
- Insurance Coverage: Look for a provider who accepts your insurance or is willing to work with you to create an affordable payment plan.
- Reviews and Testimonials: Check online reviews and testimonials from past patients to get a sense of the provider’s reputation and the quality of care they provide.
- Communication Style: The provider’s communication style is also important. Look for a provider willing to listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have. A good TMS therapy provider should also be able to explain the treatment process clearly and concisely.
By considering these factors, you can find a TMS therapy provider who is experienced, qualified, and able to provide you with the best possible care.
Try TMS Therapy With Brain Health Center
Are you interested in TMS therapy but unsure where to start? Look no further.
At Brain Health Center, we offer TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, panic disorders, postpartum depression, and suicide ideation.
Our unique approach involves brain mapping and working with data specific to your brain. There’s no guesswork involved; you’ll receive a customized treatment plan with the latest protocols and equipment designed to put you at ease and help you get the most out of your treatment.
Our location in St. George, Utah, also supports long-distance treatment. Get started today with your free, 30-minute brain mapping, and let us know if you have any questions! Call us at 435.900.0123, or email us at he***@*****hc.com. Try TMS therapy with Brain Health Center today.
by Brain Health Center | Apr 5, 2023 | TMS Articles
Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy might help if you suffer from depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, postpartum depression, and many more. I know medications and traditional therapy are effective tools for managing mental health conditions, but TMS therapy can provide additional benefits.
Now, there’s a lot to learn if you’ve never heard of TMS. That’s why I’m explaining what TMS therapy is and discussing some of the many mental health conditions that TMS therapy can help combat. Keep reading to learn more.
What Is TMS Therapy?
Your biggest question is probably, “What is TMS therapy?” TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It’s a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of your brain that are believed to be involved in depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
During a TMS therapy session, a device will be placed on your head to deliver magnetic pulses to your brain, stimulating the nerve cells that are believed to contribute to your mental health issues.
I’m here to assure you that there’s no pain or discomfort involved in TMS therapy; you’ll only feel a tapping sensation or hear a clicking sound. Side effects are rare, which is relieving to lots of people!
Typically, you’ll attend TMS therapy sessions every day for several weeks. The good news is that these sessions are very short. While most providers offer sessions lasting 20 to 30 minutes, our TMS treatment only takes four minutes.
How is that possible? Well, I know you’re busy, so we’ve invested in new technology and impeccable training that allows us to provide theta burst treatments, which are much shorter and proven to be more effective.
The best part is that TMS therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment ideal for depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. It is effective in many clinical studies, and some people who haven’t had success with other treatments like medication or therapy have found relief with TMS therapy.
What Can Be Treated With TMS Therapy?
I’m glad you asked. The good news is, a lot of disorders can be treated with TMS therapy. In this section, I’ll provide you with a detailed overview of some of the more common conditions and how they can affect your body.
Depression
Depression is a mental health disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. It’s characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in things that used to be enjoyable. Depression can interfere with your daily life, work, and relationships.
Depression can show up in a lot of ways, with symptoms varying by person. I could experience depression differently than you. Some common symptoms include:
- Feeling sad or anxious most of the time.
- Not having any interested in activities you once enjoyed.
- Feeling tired.
- Having a hard time falling asleep or sleeping too much.
- Not feeling hungry or overeating; seeing your weight fluctuate.
- Feeling guilty or like you’re worthless.
- Having a hard time concentrating or making decisions.
- Having thoughts of death or suicide.
If you have depression, it could be caused by genetic, biological, environmental, and/or psychological factors.
If you want to seak treatment for your depression, you can look at medication, therapy, or a combination of both. A lot of people who have depression take antidepressant medications that regulate the levels of certain brain chemicals associated with mood. Therapy can help you learn coping skills and strategies to manage your symptoms.
Anxiety Disorders
OK, let’s chat about anxiety disorders now. There are multiple, and they’ll cause you to excessively worry or persistently feel fear. These conditions can interfere with daily life, work, and relationships.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and specific phobias.
If you have an anxiety disorder, your symptoms might include:
- Feelings of worry or fear that are difficult to control.
- Restlessness or irritability.
- Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep.
- Muscle tension or physical discomfort.
- Racing thoughts or difficulty concentrating.
- Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety.
Genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors often cause and affect anxiety disorders. The good news is that there are effective treatments available for anxiety disorders.
OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
If you have OCD, you’re likely dealing with persistent, intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses. These can be very distressing and difficult to ignore. These thoughts might cause repetitive behaviors or mental acts that you feel compelled to perform to make the anxiety go away.
Common OCD fears include contamination fears, a need for order, and intrusive thoughts relate to harm or violence.
We don’t know exactly what causes OCD, but we believe that genetics and environment factors play a role. And OCD can be exacerbated by stress or trauma.
The good news is that, like depression and anxiety, effective treatments are available for OCD. Therapy and medications in the SSRI family are often found to be most effective.
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Traumatic events usually trigger PTSD. Examples include combat exposure, sexual or physical assault, natural disasters, or serious accidents. Like the other health conditions we’ve discussed, PTSD can manifest in a lot of different ways. Common symptoms include:
- Having flashbacks or memories you can’t get out of your head.
- Avoiding places, people, or activities that remind you of the traumatic event.
- Feeling like you’re constantly on guard.
- Having a hard time sleeping or concentrating.
- Feeling irritable or having angry outbursts.
- Feeling guilty or ashamed.
- Having adverse changes in mood or thinking.
Now, PTSD is a complex condition. Genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors can all affect PTSD. You could be at a higher risk for developing PTSD, depending on your life experiences and coping mechanisms.
Bipolar Disorder
You might have bipolar disorder if you have extreme mood swings that range from high-energy or manic episodes to low-energy or depressive episodes.
During a manic episode, you may feel thrilled, energetic, or irritable. You may have racing thoughts, difficulty sleeping, and feel the urge to engage in impulsive or risky behaviors.
During a depressive episode, you may feel sad, hopeless, and have little energy or motivation. You may have difficulty sleeping, experience changes in appetite, and have thoughts of suicide.
Did you know there are several types of bipolar disorder? You could have bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, or cyclothymic disorder. Of course, like with any other mental health condition, symptoms and severity can vary by person. Your symptoms might be more or less severe than other people you know who also have bipolar disorder.
Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for bipolar disorder, including medication and therapy. Mood stabilizers can help reduce symptoms and prevent relapse. Therapy can help you learn coping skills and strategies to manage your mood swings.
Chronic Pain
If you feel persistent pain that lasts for over three months, it’s probably chronic. There are two types of pain: chronic and acute. Acute pain is a normal response to injury or illness that typically goes away once the underlying cause is treated. However, chronic pain can be ongoing, and you might not be able to identify its cause.
So, what causes chronic pain? Nerve damage, inflammation, or changes in how the brain processes pain signals are a few causes of chronic pain. It can also be associated with arthritis, fibromyalgia, or back pain.
Chronic pain can be really challenging to deal with and significantly impact your daily life, work, and relationships. It can make sleeping, concentrating, or engaging in physical activity difficult. It can also lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
There are several treatment options you can pursue for chronic pain. Your source of treatment will depend on how bad the pain is and if there’s an underlying cause. Medication, physical therapy, acupuncture, and massage can all help. Surgery can also be an option if other pain-relieving treatments aren’t working for you.
It’s important to understand that chronic pain is a complex condition that may not have a simple solution. To effectively manage your chronic pain, you’ll need to be patient and be willing to try different treatment approaches.
But don’t lose hope if you are living with chronic pain! Seeking help from a medical professional is essential to assess your symptoms and help you develop a treatment plan that works for you. With the proper treatment and support, managing chronic pain and improving your quality of life is possible.
Insomnia
If you have a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep, you likely have a sleep disorder known as insomnia. It can be a short-term issue that resolves quickly resolves itself, or it can be a long-term issue that persists for months or years.
Different types of insomnia include:
- Acute insomnia occurs briefly. You’ll likely experience acute insomnia if there’s a stressful life event or a change in your sleep schedule.
- Chronic insomnia lasts at least three nights a week for three months or more.
- Onset insomnia refers to difficulty falling asleep at the beginning of the night.
- Maintenance insomnia refers to difficulty staying asleep throughout the night.
Stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, medication side effects, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome can all cause insomnia. Insomnia can also result from an irregular sleep schedule or using electronic devices in your bedroom shortly before you go to sleep.
Living with insomnia can be challenging and significantly impact your daily life, work, and relationships. Insomnia can cause daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and other negative physical and emotional symptoms.
You can seek treatment for your insomnia. The type of treatment you’ll receive depends on the underlying cause of the insomnia and how bad it is. Medication, therapy, relaxation techniques, and other sleep-promoting strategies can all help. I recommend establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a sleep-conducive environment.
Now, I want you to know that insomnia is very common and affects many people at some point in their lives. If you have insomnia, it’s important to seek medical care. Once a doctor has assessed your symptoms, they can help you develop a treatment plan that works for you. With the right treatment and support, it’s possible to manage insomnia and improve your quality of life.
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
Let’s switch gears to ADHD. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting children and adults. If you notice difficulty paying attention and have strong impulses throughout the day that interfere with your ability to go through your normal routine, you may have ADHD.
The symptoms of ADHD can vary but typically fall into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
- Inattention: You may need help focusing on tasks or activities and become easily distracted or forgetful. You may also need help organizing tasks or following through on instructions.
- Hyperactivity: You may have difficulty sitting still or staying quiet and feel restless or fidgety. You may also engage in impulsive behaviors, such as interrupting others or acting without considering the consequences.
- Impulsivity: You may have trouble controlling your impulses, leading to risky or inappropriate behaviors. You may also struggle with regulating your emotions and be prone to mood swings or outbursts.
Genetic and environmental factors cause ADHD. We believe that ADHD is related to differences in how certain parts of the brain function. We don’t understand the exact cause, but some of the research we’ve seen suggests that it may be related to imbalances in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Now, while there is no cure for ADHD, several treatment options can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
If you don’t treat your ADHD, it can significantly impact your academic, social, and occupational success. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can learn to manage symptoms and thrive personally and professionally.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mood disorder that affects approximately 1 in 8 women after giving birth. Postpartum can be severe and can significantly affect your well-being and relationship with your child and family.
You might have PPD if you feel sad, anxious, and irritable at a level beyond the typical “baby blues.” Many mothers just like you experience this after giving birth. Symptoms may include:
- Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness.
- Loss of interest in once enjoyable activities.
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much.
- Changes in appetite or weight.
- Fatigue or loss of energy.
- Feelings of guilt or shame.
- Difficulty bonding with the baby.
- Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby.
We don’t fully understand what causes PPD, but we believe it’s related to physical, emotional, and environmental factors. Hormonal changes during and after pregnancy can cause PPD. So can a history of depression or anxiety, stressful life events, lack of social support, or sleep deprivation.
It is important to seek help if you are experiencing PPD symptoms. Treatment may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Support groups and counseling may also be helpful.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is called a “spectrum” disorder because the symptoms and severity can vary widely.
If you have ASD, the symptoms probably appeared in your early child, although symptoms can surface later. Some common signs and symptoms of ASD include:
- Having a difficult time with social interactions, eye contact, social cues, and making friends.
- Having a speech delay or unusual language development; examples include repeated words or phrases, speaking in a monotone voice, or using unusual language.
- Repetitive behaviors or interests, such as lining up toys, repeating routines, or becoming intensely interested in certain topics
- Sensory sensitivities, such as being extremely sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures
- Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine
- Problems with motor skills, such as coordination or balance
We don’t understand the exact cause of ASD, but we believe it’s related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some studies have suggested that abnormalities in brain development may contribute to the development of ASD.
Now, while there is no known cure for ASD, there are several treatments and therapies available that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Living with ASD can be challenging, but with the proper support and treatment, you can lead a fulfilling and productive life. I recommend seeking help and support as early as possible.
Try TMS Therapy With Brain Health Center
We understand what it feels like to want better treatment options. It’s why the Brain Health Center was started.
TMS therapy can help with every mental health disorder or condition described in this blog. TMS therapy is often used with other treatments, such as medication and therapy. In some cases, TMS therapy can help when other treatment options haven’t helped.
TMS therapy can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall functioning by stimulating specific areas of the brain to achieve balance.
If you’re interested in trying TMS therapy, consider Brain Health Center. We offer TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, panic disorders, postpartum depression, autism spectrum disorder, and suicide ideation.
Contact Brain Health Center today to get started. Call us at 435.900.0123, email us at he***@*****hc.com, or fill out the form on our website.
