For decades, mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or other chronic medical conditions have not been openly discussed in communities due to stigma, fear, and ignorance. Unlike physical conditions, mental illnesses, specifically depression, do not display any obvious symptoms and the conditions are not as easy to diagnose or observe. People with mental illness deliberately hide their symptoms, or simply don’t know that something is wrong with them.
On the other hand, the prevalence of the main symptoms associated with depression can have an incremental effect if it is not diagnosed or treated early. It can lead to functional disability or leave you drowsy and exhausted if symptoms are not recognized.
According to extensive research studies, symptoms of depression are mainly associated with hormonal imbalances, stressful events and personality traits, a traumatic incident, or unpleasant experiences at certain stages throughout life.
To put the problem in perspective, it is vitally important to understand that there are a number of treatment options available to help you or your loved ones combat major depressive disorders. Treatments range from medication or psychotherapy to drug-free alternatives like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Risk factors for depression: Depression affects each individual differently and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, it is important to consult with your psychiatrist or therapist to help you or your loved ones receive a correct diagnosis and have an appropriate treatment plan. However, in light of recent studies, the following are the most common risk factors associated with depression:
Having a family or personal history of depression.
Suffering trauma, tragic life changes, or stressful conditions
Undergoing a physical illness, certain treatments and medications.
Ways to overcome depression: It may take some time for your doctor to determine if the symptoms of depression are caused by a medical condition or for some other reason. That is, the suggested intensive treatment depends on the severity of your depressive disorder.
Although taking antidepressants or certain medications with long-term therapies can have an optimal effect on the mental condition of the patient, there are several other alternatives that you can choose to treat depression. Above all, these alternatives do not rely on drugs or medications, so you do not have to worry about long-term side effects.
drug-free depression treatment
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): This drug-free treatment of depression is one of the most revolutionary methods in neuroscience as it does not require antidepressants or any other medication of the kind. The treatment is called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which is an FDA-approved, clinically proven therapy used in medical facilities to treat people suffering from severe depression or anxiety.
It is an effective treatment and incorporates electrical stimulation for your nervous system through the use of magnetic pulses. The process is similar to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that targets a dormant region of the human brain. The goal of TMS is to reduce the symptoms of depression by controlling hormones that elevate the patient’s mood. The approach also helps medical professionals improve their clinical practices in the field of neurology.
How TMS works
The antidepressant properties of TMS work with different techniques. It involves an induction of intracranial electrical current, which is driven from the magnetoelectric device. Psychiatrists have observed great changes in the behavior of patients with a marked reduction in depression and anxiety. Not only this, TMS also helps improve the symptoms of sleep disturbance that causes mood swings. The process follows a simple three-step procedure and is equally well tolerated by patients.
The TMS device is used to deliver magnetic pulses that help doctors stimulate different parts of the brain to control a patient’s mood.
The device creates a clicking and tapping sound on the head and transfers magnetic pulses. The session requires 30 to 40 minutes.
The patient can continue with their normal daily activity after each session.
Apart from all therapeutic treatments, it is vitally important to show your utmost concern for the one suffering from depression. His affection and influence can help you stay motivated and build a positive outlook on life.
Positive information in the form of attention, care, encouragement, and motivation helps a person suffering from depression and can also help change a negative outlook on life. Therefore, depression treatments such as TMS may be more effective with the love, care, and support of family.
