TMS For Anxiety: Debunking Myths And Setting The Facts Straight

26 September 2023

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people. While traditional treatments like therapy and medications have been effective for many, some individuals continue to struggle with anxiety symptoms. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a promising alternative for those seeking relief. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of TMS therapy for anxiety, debunk myths surrounding its effectiveness, and present the facts that can help you make an informed decision about this innovative treatment.

What Is TMS For Anxiety?

So, does TMS work for anxiety? Let’s start by demystifying TMS. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, isn’t some sci-fi concept; it’s a real-life, non-invasive procedure that taps into the power of magnetic fields to gently nudge specific parts of your brain. Originally designed to help with depression, TMS has been under the research spotlight, and guess what? It’s showing some impressive potential in the realm of anxiety treatment. So, let’s keep the curiosity flowing as we explore the myths and facts surrounding this innovative therapy.

Myth Vs. Fact: TMS And Anxiety

Myth #1: TMS Is Only Effective For Depression

One common misconception about TMS is that it’s exclusively effective for treating depression. While it was initially developed and approved for depression, research and clinical experience have demonstrated its potential benefits for anxiety disorders as well. TMS works by modulating neural activity in the brain, making it a versatile tool for various mental health conditions, including anxiety.

Fact: TMS Can Be Effective for Anxiety

Several studies and clinical trials have shown that TMS can significantly reduce symptoms in various anxiety disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). The key lies in targeting the right brain regions associated with anxiety, and TMS therapy can precisely accomplish this task.

Myth #2: TMS Is Painful And Unsafe

Another myth is that TMS is a painful or unsafe procedure. In reality, TMS is considered a well-tolerated and safe treatment option. During a TMS session, patients typically experience a tapping or clicking sensation on their scalp, but this discomfort is generally mild. TMS is non-invasive, meaning it doesn’t require surgery or anaesthesia, and it doesn’t induce seizures.

Fact: TMS Is Safe and Generally Painless

TMS for anxiety is performed in an outpatient setting, and most patients can resume their daily activities immediately after a session. It has a minimal risk of side effects, with the most common being mild scalp discomfort or headache, which usually subsides quickly. TMS therapy sessions are closely monitored by trained professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Myth #3: TMS Is A Quick Fix

Some individuals may expect TMS to provide instant relief from anxiety symptoms. While TMS can be highly effective, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and results may vary from person to person. It is essential to have realistic expectations and commit to a recommended TMS anxiety treatment plan.

Fact: TMS Requires a Treatment Plan

TMS for anxiety typically involves a series of sessions over several weeks. The exact number of sessions and their frequency may vary based on individual needs and the severity of the anxiety disorder. Patience and consistency are essential for achieving the best results with TMS.

Myth #4: TMS Is Expensive And Not Covered By Insurance

Cost can be a significant concern for those considering TMS. However, many insurance plans now cover TMS therapy for various mental health conditions, including anxiety. It’s crucial to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Fact: TMS May Be Covered by Insurance

Due to the increasing recognition of TMS as an effective treatment for mental health conditions, insurance coverage has expanded. Some patients may find that their insurance covers a substantial portion of TMS therapy for anxiety costs, making it more accessible.

Myth #5: TMS Is A Last Resort

Another misconception is that TMS should only be considered when all other treatment options have failed. While TMS is sometimes recommended after other treatments have been ineffective, it can also be a viable choice as a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, especially when individuals prefer non-medication options or have concerns about potential side effects.

Fact: TMS Can Be Considered at Any Stage

The decision to pursue TMS for anxiety should be based on an individual’s unique circumstances and preferences. It is not limited to being a last resort and can be discussed with a mental health professional at any stage of treatment planning.

Myth #6: TMS Results Are Temporary

Concerns about the temporary nature of TMS benefits can deter some from exploring this therapy. While individual responses may vary, many individuals experience long-lasting relief from anxiety symptoms after completing a full course of TMS treatment for anxiety.

Fact: TMS Can Provide Lasting Benefits

Research has shown that the positive effects of TMS on anxiety can persist for months to years after treatment. Some individuals may require maintenance sessions, but TMS has the potential to offer enduring relief from anxiety symptoms.

Summing Up

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) isn’t just about tackling depression; it’s got a promising role in helping folks wrestling with anxiety disorders too. By shedding light on the myths surrounding TMS and getting the facts straight about its safety, effectiveness, and potential insurance coverage, we’re here to arm you with the knowledge you need to make smart choices about your mental health.

Now, let’s be real – TMS isn’t a magic wand that makes all your anxiety vanish in an instant. It’s more like a steady hand guiding you toward relief. It’s gentle, non-invasive, and generally well-tolerated. For many, it’s a ray of hope, offering a path to managing anxiety that doesn’t involve medications or complex procedures.

But here’s the golden rule: always lean on the expertise of a qualified mental health professional when considering TMS therapy for anxiety. They’re the compass guiding you through your unique mental health journey, helping you figure out if TMS is the right fit for your needs

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Ankita Tripathy

Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

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Common Questions About Baltic Amber

Baltic amber has been around since ancient times. It’s a European staple for men and women for centuries, not only as a matter of culture but also because of the healing powers it possesses. Over the years, amber necklaces and anklets have become a popular choice for soothing teething children, relieving pain and anxiety in adults and helping pregnant women de-stress. Whether you simply want to feel closer to nature, make use of the healing properties, or want to give a unique, thoughtful, and practical gift, Baltic amber is the perfect solution. Let's explore some common questions pertaining to amber and help you understand more. What Is Amber? Amber is not, contrary to popular belief, made from stone but rather from a tree resin that was excreted millions of years ago and has become fossilized. The type of amber used for healing comes from areas surrounding the Baltic Sea in Europe and is different because it contains higher levels of succinite, which is the element associated with healing. Succinite is found both in nature and in our bodies. It is what's known as an analgesic, which is any medicine that relieves pain without inducing unconsciousness. Nowadays, succinite is actually manufactured chemically by the pharmaceutical industry for an array of uses but is found in naturally high quantities in the amber teething anklet. How To Use It? Amber should be worn against the skin to utilize healing properties because heat from the body allows succinite to be absorbed. For best results, the jewelry should be worn permanently and fitted closest to any area of the body in pain or with an ailment. A person suffering from neck pain may choose to wear an anklet, while those with arthritis should try and wear a bracelet. It's often advised that babies wear amber teething anklet so that they are out of reach and can't be chewed or played with. Healing Properties: As mentioned, Baltic amber is known for its soothing qualities and stress relief, but also works as an anti-inflammatory and sleep aid. It is particularly beneficial for the pain of bone and joints, and many people suffering from chronic skin conditions, migraines and rheumatoid arthritis have reported significant relief. How Long Will It Take And Last: As with food supplements or medication, results vary from person to person, but many wearers notice changes within 24hours, while others see it a few days later. It's advised that a new wearer commits to wearing Baltic amber for three to four weeks. As with most things in life, age and lifestyle (like being exposed to toiletries, chlorine, and excessive heat) can lead to brittleness and fading, but careful care and maintenance prolongs the lifespan of Baltic amber to roughly two years. It's best to remove it when bathing or swimming and is simple to clean, by dipping in plain, warm water and wiping with a soft cloth. Being a natural product with so many potential benefits, it seems like an obvious choice for anyone to try Baltic amber. Just remember, we're not medical professionals and the opinions mentioned are not intended as medical advice. Read Also: Health Benefits Of The Amber Teething Necklace Ways To Emotionally Deal With Chronic Illness

Try Out These Healthy Cake Options

Often cake lovers are asking about whether angel food cake is healthy or is carrot cake healthy. This is the self-evident thing which should come to every person’s mind who loves the sweet taste of cakes and also continuous about their fitness. So healthy cake exist or not? Be it weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, or farewells/graduations. Many of the brands are declaring the cake mix healthy, but is that really healthy? The list is endless. We have customized the flavor, which is perfect for Indian taste buds, and we also make fusion cakes. When it comes to healthy cakes, you can make them by using whole wheat or other grain flour. You can also consume palm sugar, jaggery, stevia, and fruit sugar to sweeten your cake. Avoid using sugar syrup. Try to use organic ingredients along with the Flourless cakes, which is also another option. Checkout Four Best Healthy Cake Options Here are some of the best healthy cake options you can send to your loved ones. Read on! 1. Healthy Multigrain Fiber Dry Cake Keeping yourself healthy doesn't always mean cutting things out of your diet; It also means including all the essential nutrients in your diet plan. So, the intake of multigrain fiber will be like a boost to your diet. This healthy multigrain fiber-rich healthy cake provides you with both health and taste. What more could a health lover ask for? Do you know that these multigrain fibers help in maintaining your weight, consequently reducing the risk of obesity? The cake also aids in digestion and lowers cholesterol levels. There is no doubt that brown moms will be most happy to see their kids serving this healthy dish. Why not send it as a birthday cake to your beloved? 2. Tea Cake Teacake is basically a no-frills, loaf-shaped cake with multiple possible flavors, which you can have with tea/coffee. They ideally have no icing or topping and are also served as warm slices. These healthy cakes are made from regular ingredients like butter, sweetener and flour, eggs, leavening agents, and flavorings of choice. But, traditionally, tea cake is from England and is a yeast-leavened sweet bread. 3. Sticky Cakes You must be searching for many healthy cake recipes but making a cake is not an easy task. While it can be baked using a variety of ingredients, some of our loved ones may be allergic to some of these food items, such as gluten and grains. Baking a cake without your favorite ingredients can seem a bit odd, but with others in mind and a few adjustments, you can make a delicious cake everyone will love equally. You can mix in sticky ingredients and chocolate. This is a great-looking and tasting cake! 4. Genoise Cake "Nothing expresses love for cake than a slice of Genoise cake. Beat some eggs, sugar, and flour, and let it rest, so it blooms with love and flavor. If you're not the kitchen type of person or the Genoise cake doesn't turn out the way you expected, then you can always find a wide range of genoise cakes in Chandigarh, Delhi, Bangalore, and all the major cities. Which cakes are healthy? So, we've cleared the air for you. Unlike any buttercream or fondant cakes, dry cakes are known as good for your body and health. Let's read about some health benefits of eating healthy cakes: A. Energy Source Sugar and flour are the two main ingredients of dry healthy cake recipes. These two ingredients are excellent sources of carbohydrates: Carbohydrates fuel the muscles, nervous system, and the entire body with energy. The fat present in the cake is also a good source of vitality. B. Strength Sweet confections like cakes supply proteins to the body. Cakes are baked with milk and eggs; Both are powerhouses of protein. Milk is rich in calcium which enhances the functioning of bones. Also, the dry cake is garnished with almonds and cashews, which strengthen the immune system, as nuts contain vitamins. C. Full Of Good Things Cakes are full of good things that provide enough vitamins to your body. For example, chocolate cake contains chocolate antioxidants. Vitamin-A carrot is found in carrot cake. Wherein Coffee and Walnut healthy Cake contain omega-3 oily walnuts. Some cake ingredients include what could have been more healthy ingredients found in diet foods. Related Resource: 8 Awesome Health Benefits Of Dark Chocolate D. Healthy Gut "Healthy Gut, Healthy You." Dry fruit cakes filled with fresh and ripe berries, cherries, apples, and pineapples are a storehouse of fiber. Foods with great fiber help keep the digestive system healthy. Dry, healthy carrot cakes also help in boosting digestion. Wrapping It Up: So, whenever your tastebuds crave cake, and your body warns you not to fall into the trap, you know how to silence the silence and order dry cake online. If you need more clarification about the market-available commercial-made cake ingredients, you can bake it at your home and enjoy the delicious taste of the healthy cake. Read Also: Which Edible is Right for You? 6 Delicious Cakes That You Must Try This Winter The Best Ways Cake Makers Can Pack Their Cakes

How Do I Get Back In Shape? Fitness Experts Share Their Tips!

The most common question many personal trainers get is ‘how do I get back in shape’. As good-intentioned as that question is, there’s no way anyone can answer it for you. Deep inside, you know the way to get back in shape is to make some tough choices. It’s that simple. It can be difficult to balance out your work, caring for your kids, resting, binging and signing up for a gym like Fit Athletic. Getting back in shape means making some serious changes in your routine, which is always a huge challenge. In this article, we’ve asked personal trainers from the best San Diego fitness centers to share their thoughts on the topic and give their best advice on how to get back in shape. Stay In Shape: Yes, it’s easier said than done, but the truth is that the best way to get back in shape is to stay close to the shape, or the ideal look, weight, and BMI for you. As we grow older and more busy at work, skipping gym time comes rather naturally. The worst mentality you can develop is that it’s just one day. But day by day, you’ll lose the motivation to work out and stay in shape. Soon enough, you’ve come to the point where you don’t recognize yourself anymore. Going to the gym is better than not going to the gym. If you skip going to the gym because you only have 30 minutes to work out, you’re making a huge mistake. Because 30 minutes is still more than zero. Even a bad day at the gym can contribute to maintaining the harmony in your body. No matter how much you just want to sit back and binge Netflix for the rest of the day, you have to make sure you stay motivated to work out continuously. Staying in shape is the key to never having to put in the extra effort to get back in shape. Take Your Time: While your desire to get back in shape is commendable, it can also lead to serious injuries if you’re not careful. As bad as you might feel about getting out of shape, going in fast and hard is not a good idea. It took some time to get out of shape, and you cannot undo that instantly. Instead, this is a process that requires patience and caution. Don’t try to make up for the lost time the day you get back to the gym. Instead, allow your body some time to adjust to the new regime through slow, natural progression. If you strain and injure yourself, you can only hinder your progress. Set Realistic Goals: This picks up where the last point left off. There’s a big chance the first few workouts will leave you completely exhausted. That’s only natural. You have to pave the way back to your ideal shape with realistic goals. Setting realistic weight loss and muscle mass goals will ensure your workouts are effective and will motivate you even more. Deceiving yourself that you can look like an action movie star in the first month of getting back to the gym will only ruin your motivation because such a goal is unrealistic. And don’t forget all those other obligations and activities outside the gym that made you quit in the first place. All those deadlines are still waiting and someone still needs to pick the kids up from school. So instead of implementing a heavy training schedule to get back in shape, focus on short but intensive workouts. Striking a balance is key to a harmonious life and the key to getting back in shape. Read Also: How To Avoid Getting Bored At The Gym 10 Winter Fitness Hacks To Help You Stick To Your Fitness Goals

TMS For Anxiety: Debunking Myths And Setting The Facts Straight

What Is TMS For Anxiety?

Myth Vs. Fact: TMS And Anxiety