Depression is a heavyweight that can disrupt lives and cause the memory of happiness to fade. Intense and prolonged feelings of sadness or lack of enjoyment can prevent a person from pursuing their interests or functioning at work.

It’s a struggle that no one should bear alone. Luckily, depression is usually treatable, and there is hope.

MindPath Care Centers is dedicated to helping patients conquer depression in a way that is specific to them. As part of one of the largest behavioral health organizations in the country, the MindPath Center in Wilmington provides well-researched clinical treatments to care for a variety of behavioral health conditions.

For patients with treatment-resistant depression, MindPath offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) This outpatient, non-invasive treatment is ideal for depressed patients who have not found relief from other treatments, such as psychotherapy and antidepressants.

FDA-cleared in 2008, TMS works by delivering electromagnetic pulses to the brain to stimulate underactive neurons in the areas that control mood and cognition. Treatment includes 36 sessions scheduled over nine weeks.

RATE OF SUCCESS: In real-world clinical studies, approximately two-thirds of patients who completed TMS treatment-experienced clinically significant improvement. Two-thirds of patients who completed TMS treatment either experienced full remission of their depression symptoms or noticeable improvements.

OUTPATIENT BENEFITS: TMS is a non-systemic outpatient procedure. Patients can drive to and from their appointments and resume normal activities immediately following treatment.

MINIMAL SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effect is scalp discomfort.

STAY ON MEDICATION: During TMS treatment, patients are encouraged to continue psychotherapy and medications as prescribed by their regular psychiatrist. TMS physicians work in partnership with a patient’s treatment plan.

A typical TMS session lasts roughly 20 minutes. The first session includes

a brain mapping session to customize the treatment area and strength. During treatment, a helmet containing the treatment coil is fitted over a patient’s head, where it delivers a series of pulses followed by a rest period. During treatment, patients can read, watch TV, or chat with their technician.

TMS is suited for patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), which affects about one-third of patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder. A diagnosis is generally made after a patient has unsuccessfully tried psychotherapy and at least two trials of medications from different classes.

Depression is a common yet complex human disorder that affects about 1 in 5 adults.in the United States at some point in their lives. It is caused by a variety of factors and can be expressed by many symptoms. Therefore, no two patients experience depression in quite the same way, nor can they be treated the same. Left untreated, depression can worsen and, ultimately, take a serious toll on the body. Depression increases the risk of developing diseases that affect everything from your heart to your immune system. It’s why we believe so strongly that healthcare begins with mind care.

If you or a loved one struggle with emotional, behavioral, relationship, or psychological difficulties, contact the specialist staff at MindPath Care Centers.

Get answers or schedule your first appointment by visiting us at mindpathcare.com or calling our Wilmington office at 910-444-3614.