Howard Weeks, M.D., Psychiatrist, University of Utah Health Care – University Neuropsychiatric Institute (UNI) talks about TMS therapy.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy is a new, FDA-approved treatment for major depressive disorder. It is non-invasive, and has minimal, if any, side effects because it is non-systematic. And, clinical studies have shown success rates as high as 60 percent.
• TMS therapy is generally recommended for those who have not achieved desired results from medication, or who struggle with the medicine’s side effects.
• Typical initial treatment courses consist of 5 treatments per week over 4-6 weeks.
• TMS therapy is administered by a professional psychiatrist. The machine works by generating concentrated magnetic fields that stimulate the specific area of the brain that controls mood. The machine looks similar to a dentist’s chair with a coil that transfers magnetic pulses to the patient.
• TMS therapy can effectively treat an episode of depression, but it’s not a cure.
Mental Health Stats in Utah: The need for quality depression treatment is HIGH.
• 383,099 Utah adults report 7 or more days of poor mental health in a month.
• 227, 358 Utahs are in need of mental health treatment.
• Only 40,924 Utah adults are currently receiving adequate mental health treatment.
• In the past, Utah has led the nation in depression rates, coming in last in the nation (51st) for levels of depression and outcomes of those seeking treatment.
Choosing the best treatment for your depression:
• University of Utah Health Care is one of only a few academic health care systems in the country to offer TMS therapy, and we are the only TMS therapy provider in Utah. As the state’s only academic medical center, we combine the latest treatment options with comprehensive, scientific expertise in order to determine the best course of treatment for each individual patient.
• Many patients remain on antidepressant medications and continue therapy sessions throughout TMS therapy. Talk to your doctor or psychiatrist to find out what’s right for you.
• Depression is a serious medical condition. Talk to your doctor if you feel you or a loved one is at risk. University of Utah Health Care provides psychiatric services for children, adolescents, and adults.
To receive confidential assessments or referrals, contact the University Neuropsychiatric Institute at 801-583-2500. For more information, visit www.healthcare.edu or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/UofUHealthCare.
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