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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8 Home Gym Systems You’ll Want To Try Out

Are you building a fitness sanctuary in your garage or basement? You have to check out these 8 home gym systems. It'll be hard to choose just one. Home gym systems are accessible spots in one's home for exercising, usually situated in the garage or an extra room in the house. More and more people are opting for home fitness sanctuaries as opposed to going to commercial gyms because it presents certain benefits. Let's take a look. Advantages of Having Home Gym Systems : First, gym systems save time. Going to a commercial gym and back home would normally take up to an hour or so, but having a home gym takes just a minute to get to. It also removes the excuse of skipping the gym due to traffic if the commercial gym is located far from one's home. Another advantage of a home gym system is you buy the equipment just once, which is inexpensive compared to using a commercial gym. Commercial gym membership usually requires a monthly subscription fee and if you are going to be working out for many months or years, it might be more cost-effective to go for the home gym option. Lastly, one of the greatest benefits is adherence to the training. Having a home gym largely reduces the self-imposed excuses that you have for yourself on why you should not be working out. Adherence means not only doing your training but doing it consistently. At the end of the day, you're only going to be getting the benefits from exercise if you're doing the exercise right. Building the perfect home gym requires you to have excellent equipment and home gym systems that will help you reach your fitness goals, and train often and consistently. A home gym needs a product that is compact with the ability to do it all and with no restrictions. If you are looking to build the perfect home gym, consider the best eight home gym systems listed below. 1. Thane Total Flex Home Gym : This ultra-compact system can also be thought of like a traveling gym as it can go along with you virtually anywhere and then be set up quickly for gym-quality workouts. When space isn't an issue, the ultra-compact Thane Total Flex is here to save the day. It easily folds up to the size of a suitcase and has a handle for portability. With over 50 exercises targeting muscles from head to toe, it has a reclining seat for lower body workouts and can fold up smaller than a suitcase. However, the resistance may be too low for the super fit. It is perfect for apartments but it's not optimal for big strength gains. 2. Marci MWM-988 Stack Gym : Tone your entire body with the versatile Marci MWN-988 stack gym. It offers a dual function for upper and lower body workouts. It also has an excellent flat station, all of which adds up to effective targeted training. However, it offers only about 150 pounds of resistance. It is built with strong steel tube framing and comes with high and low pulley stations. It assembles in just a few hours and is relatively compact. 3. Total Gym XLS : Designed for use by the whole family, the Total Gym XLS works with every fitness level and can help target almost every major muscle group. It has a 400-pound capacity and no assembly is required. It also comes with a short six-month warranty. It is also useful for workouts ranging from cardio to strength training to stretching. It offers compact upright storage and also includes 5 workout DVDs. 4. The Powerline BSG10X : It has a hard-to-find 10-year warranty on its frame. On top of that, it is built with 11-gauge steel which assures maximum strength-building potential, reliable functionality, and the long-lasting durability of construction. That means this investment will last, giving you time to learn the many ways you can use the system to develop gains and good habits. It features an easy to adjust 160-pound iron stack and is mostly assembled out-of-the-box. It utilizes military-grade aircraft cables and has 2200-pound tension strength. However, the foam handles tear over time. Powerline BSG10X is a professional gym quality unit. 5. Body-Solid EXM 3000 : Sculpt your body with an intense efficient workout on the Body-Solid EXM 3000. You will be amazed by this home gym's versatility. It features an easy pin weight adjustment, a small footprint that is ideal for tight spaces, and a workout poster that lists 20 exercises. It offers a wide array of strength training exercises for up to three simultaneous users, making it ideal for large homes and family workouts. It features contoured durafirm pads for support. It also has weight stacks that are within easy reach and a multi-function press arm station. It is one of the best home gym systems if you have the space for it. 6. Bowflex PR1000 : Anybody can achieve amazing results using the patented technology of the Bowflex PR1000. This home gym system features a flat pull down bar and a horizontal bench press. These are perfect for developing the lean toned and V-shaped torso many fitness fans dream of. It includes up to 210 pounds of resistance, a rail for rowing training, and a 300-pound maximum capacity. 7. Powertec Fitness WB-LS14-P : Reach your maximum potential with the Powertec Fitness WB-LS14-P. It features directly loaded weights for a natural feel but with the safety of a machine. This home gym system boasts a press capacity of a staggering 500 pounds. It combines a standard incline bench with the versatility of a single step press. Unlike many other home gym systems, no leg press gets in the way when you use the bench. Optional attachments are available and it's not limited by total stack weight. It offers an easy assembly with good instructions. It offers handlebars on the bench for stabilization and ipsilateral arms for better performance. Read more, for more informative content. 8. The Bowflex Xtreme 2SE : It lives up to it is a brand's good name by offering a total body workout in as little as half an hour. The unit allows users to move quickly between arm and leg workouts without the need for changing tension cables. It features an ab pulley and harness to build defined abs, a unique 5-way hand grip that adds flexibility, and an ergonomic adjustable seat for comfort. It also boasts resistance that is upgradeable to 410 pounds and 70 easy to learn exercises. Reach Your Ultimate Fitness Goals : If you are going to build a home gym, these are some of the home gym systems you should not miss out on. This selection of equipment will help you keep in shape in the comfort of your home. For more information, contact us. Read Also : What Are Popular Mind And Body Exercises Available At A Gym? Top 10 Muscle And Strength Building Exercise At Home You Can’t Out-Diet Your Training

Fue Hair Transplant. All You Need To Know

Dr. Ashish Dutta who is also known as Dr. Ash Dutta is one of the few highly trained and accredited surgeons in the UK. He is the Founder of Aesthetic Beauty Centre, a highly equipped cosmetic clinic in London, Sunderland, Newcastle, and Liverpool. When an average guy (or woman) starts noticing that the hair thickness on his/her head is reducing, it’s usually the internet, or sometimes one’s peers (if any of them happen to have had any sort of treatment), that are first ‘consulted’ for advice. Now the issue here is that the internet (or the peers) will generally come up with medical language like FUE, FUT, which sound like an alien language when heard for the first time. But before jumping in, we must fully understand what the aforementioned techniques actually are, and which is best suited for you. For the ladies reading this post, you may want to check out our blog about thinning hair in women: http://blog.becosmetic.com/thinning-hair-in-women/ What is FUE Technique? Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a type of hair transplantation technique in which a patient’s hair is extracted in naturally occurring groups of 1-4 hairs, called follicular unit grafts. These grafts are safely removed from the patient’s donor area (usually back of the head) using a micro-punch of 0.8 to 1 mm size. The size of the punch minimizes the potential damage to the scalp, thus reducing scarring. Rather you are left with tiny dot scars instead of a linear scar, hence no sutures are needed and healing time is quicker. This is great news for those of you who like to wear your hair very short How is FUE is performed and what are the pros and cons? Preparation of the Donor Area: Usually, the donor area is trimmed short/shaved so that the surgeon has the better sight of the donor’s scalp and can easily extract each donor follicle. Follicular Unit Placement: Hair follicles (follicular unit grafts) contain 1 to 4 or in rare cases 5 or 6 hairs each, and the careful placement of these follicles provides the foundation for recreating natural-looking results. The graft placement process for FUE and the other common hair transplantation technique FUT, is identical, although results may depend on the skills of the surgeon and the length of the procedure. The surgeon makes incisions in the recipient area of the patient, keeping in mind the patient’s natural hair growth pattern. The hair follicles are then implanted one by one. Donor Area Healing: The small incisions on the donor area from where the follicular units were extracted heal completely in 7-10 days. The apertures shrink as they heal, meaning the dot scars are seen only upon close examination. As mentioned before, stitches are not necessary. Hair Growth: Implanted hair grows in the same manner as one’s native hair. After about 75-90 days following the procedure, new hair begins to grow. Generally by the 6-month mark patients may experience a good deal of growth, although it can take up to 12 months to reach full growth. The native hair in the donor area continues to grow naturally ADVANTAGES OVER FUT: FUT surgery involves taking a strip of skin from the scalp in the donor area, hence it requires good scalp elasticity so the strip can then be ‘closed’ (sutured). Therefore FUE is a better treatment for those with a tight scalp or for patients with fibrous skin Here’s a summary of the FUE Advantages: Patients can keep short hair Compared to FUT, it is considered to be less traumatic and minimally invasive. Patients may return to work soon after the procedure as the post-operative recovery time is minimal The scars in the donor area of the patient are much less visible Stitch removal is not needed after the treatment With this technique, even the patient’s body hair be added for increased density FUE method can be used to cover a pre-existing FUT linear scar Here are some disadvantages of FUE: In many cases, where the patient needs more than 1000 grafts, the donor area must be shaved In instances of advanced hair loss, multiple sessions are needed to achieve higher graft numbers The procedure is very time-consuming. Because of the time spent, the procedure is more costly, about twice the amount of FUT. Finally, there is no ‘perfect’ method for hair transplantation, each method differs and comes with certain factors to be aware of and considered. Ultimately it is a decision you will make together with your consultant/surgeon – they can best advise which method is right for you personally. How you choose your surgeon, however, is another important aspect – (our previous blog link here) The author, Dr. Ashish Dutta, Founder & Chief Surgeon of Aesthetic Beauty Centre is one of the reputed Surgeons in the field of hair restoration surgery. Having been in the field for almost 18 years, he performs on average 35-40 hair transplants a month and participates in congresses and workshops nationally and internationally. If you know you can get in touch with Dr. Ashish Dutta, you can follow him on Linkedin, Twitter, Facebook or Vimeo. Read Also: 5 Tips To Give Your Hair A Perfect Look How To Use Heat To Straighten Curly Human Hair Extensions

Common Misconceptions About Medication Assisted Treatment Programs

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, you may have heard about medication assisted treatment programs as a potential tool for recovery. However, many misconceptions and myths surrounding these programs can prevent people from seeking the help they need. Moreover, this blog post will address some of the most common misconceptions about medication-assisted treatment programs and provide evidence-based information to help set the record straight. What Are Medication Assisted Treatment Programs? First, let's define what we mean by "medication-assisted treatment program." Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a holistic addiction treatment. It uses medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies to help people with substance use disorders (SUDs) achieve and maintain recovery. The medications used in MAT are approved by the FDA. These medications are safe and effective for treating substance use disorders. Some medications commonly used in MAT include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. MAT is a proven, effective medication assisted treatment for addiction. However, many people don't have access to quality care. Confidant Health is changing that. Confidant provides expert help for medication assisted treatment through our confidential and discreet app. Now, let's address some of the common misconceptions about MAT programs. Before searching for medication assisted treatment near me, it will be better to see which are the best nearby locations from your place. Misconception 1: Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs Are Just Substituting One Addiction For Another One of the most persistent misconceptions about medication-assisted treatment programs is that they substitute one addiction. The idea is that medications like methadone and buprenorphine replace one drug with another, and people who use them are not "sober." FACT: This is a misunderstanding of how medication-assisted treatment programs work. The medications used in medication assisted treatment are carefully prescribed and monitored by trained healthcare professionals. They help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, which can be powerful triggers for relapse. Additionally, the medications used in MAT are designed to be long-acting. This means they do not produce the same "high" that people experience when using drugs like heroin or prescription opioids. This makes it less likely that people will misuse the medications or become addicted to them. Research has consistently shown that medication-assisted treatment programs effectively reduce drug use and improve outcomes for people in recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that MAT "can help sustain recovery." Misconception 2: Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs Are Not Effective Another common misconception about medication-assisted treatment programs is that they are not effective. Some people believe that medications are just a "band-aid" solution that does not address the underlying issues contributing to addiction. FACT: Studies have shown that medication-assisted treatment programs can significantly improve outcomes for people with opioid use disorders. For example, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine found that people who received medication assisted treatments were more likely to remain on the treatment and achieve abstinence from opioids than those who did not receive any treatment and medication. Moreover, opioid use disorder medication is often used with counseling and behavioral therapies, which can help people address the underlying issues that contribute to addiction. Medication-assisted treatment programs can help people achieve and maintain recovery by providing a more holistic approach to treatment. Misconception 3: Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs Are Just A Way For Drug Companies To Make Money Another common misconception about medication-assisted treatment programs is that they are just a way for drug companies to make money. Some people believe that the medications used in medication assisted treatment are overpriced and that the programs are being promoted by pharmaceutical companies solely for profit. FACT: This is not an accurate portrayal of medication-assisted treatment programs like the 15-minute4me test. While it is true that pharmaceutical companies manufacture the medications used in MAT, they are not exclusively used for addiction treatment. Many medications used in MAT also have other medical uses. Furthermore, the cost of medication-assisted treatment programs can be offset because they are often less expensive than other types of addiction treatment. For example, inpatient rehab programs can be costly, whereas medication-assisted treatment can be provided on an outpatient basis, which can be more affordable. Misconception 4: Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs Are Just A Way To Get High Legally Some people believe that medication assisted treatment programs are just a way to get high legally. They may think that the medications used in MAT produce a similar euphoric effect as illegal drugs and that people are just using them to continue their addiction in a more socially acceptable way. FACT: As we mentioned earlier, the medications used in MAT are designed to be long-acting and do not produce the same "high" as drugs like heroin or prescription opioids. While it's true that some people may misuse their medications or use them in ways that are not prescribed, this is not the norm. Additionally, healthcare professionals will closely monitor people participating in medication-assisted treatment programs. They can detect any misuse or diversion of medications. If someone misuses their medications, they may be tapered off or removed from the program. Dispelling Misconceptions About Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs: Why They Are a Valuable Tool for Substance Abuse Recovery Medication assisted treatment programs are a valuable option for addressing substance abuse. It can help people achieve and maintain recovery from this debilitating condition. Unfortunately, there are misconceptions and stigmas surrounding these programs. These misbeliefs can prevent individuals from seeking the appropriate help they need. However, we can help break down these barriers by understanding the facts about MAT programs. We’ll be able to ensure that everyone who needs help for substance abuse can access the right care. Remember, medication-assisted treatment programs are an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment. It is a science-backed treatment option that can help improve outcomes and save many lives. Medication-assisted treatment programs are valuable for addressing substance abuse. And helping people achieve and maintain recovery. Unfortunately, many misconceptions and myths surrounding these programs can prevent people from seeking the help they need. Bottomline By understanding the facts about medication assisted treatment programs, we can help break down these barriers and ensure that everyone who needs help for substance abuse can access the care they need. Remember, medication-assisted treatment programs are an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment that can help improve outcomes and save lives. Additionals: Overcome Addiction in California 4 Tips To Find An Effective Drug Therapy 3 Key Steps Of Addiction Treatment To Help You Get Sober

TMS For Anxiety: Debunking Myths And Setting The Facts Straight

What Is TMS For Anxiety?

Myth Vs. Fact: TMS And Anxiety