The treatment of depression often involves a “trial and error” combination of drugs and therapy. For many sufferers, there is no quick, sure, or easy cure. Finding the right treatment, including the correct dosage of medication and therapies can be complicated. For patients with severe symptoms, no treatment has been successful. In California and nationwide, experts and patients alike have found hope in groundbreaking depression treatment therapies.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses MRI-like magnetic pulses of energy to stimulate nerve cells in the right side of the brain that affect mood. Each procedure lasts 45 minutes and is performed in a doctor’s office. The treatment is growing in popularity and both medical experts and patients are praising its success. TMS could be life changing for patients who suffer debilitating depression and are unable to work.
Many patients with severe depression who did not see mood improvements using traditional therapies have seen positive results. The treatment was approved by the FDA in 2008 and has been used on patients who fail to benefit from antidepressant medication. The recommended treatment is five times a week for four to six weeks and costs around $350 per session. There are no drugs or surgery involved in the treatment and side effects are minimal.
For sufferers of depression, this new treat option could be one step towards managing depression symptoms. If you or someone you love suffers debilitating depression, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. An experienced advocate can help you protect your rights and collect the benefits you are entitled to.
Source: Courier-Post, Christina Mitchell, Aug. 18, 2012
