Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy for Depression
Allina Health in the Twin Cities has doubled its capacity with a new mental health center in Fridley to meet the demand for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for persistent depression.
Key Points
- TMS involves magnetic coils placed on the scalp to direct pulses into the brain
- Around half of patients report benefit with a third experiencing remission of symptoms
- Treatment stimulates underutilized parts of the brain in depression patients
Pros
- Effective for many patients with persistent depression
- Can lead to remission of depressive symptoms
- Offers an alternative to traditional treatments like medication and therapy
Cons
- Time commitment for treatment
- Cost shared between patients and insurers
- Not a one-and-done solution for everyone