Are you wondering about a “TMS dip”? If you’re starting TMS therapy, it’s important to know what a TMS dip is. TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Sometimes, people feel a bit worse before they start feeling better during TMS treatment. This is called a TMS dip.
Understanding the TMS Dip
When you begin TMS therapy, your brain needs time to adjust to the new treatment. Some people might feel a little down before they start feeling better. This temporary change in symptoms is known as a TMS dip. It’s a sign that your brain is working hard to adjust and improve.
How Long Can a TMS Dip Last?
The TMS dip can occur within the first weeks of treatment and often resolves as the therapy progresses. It can last for 2-5 days, and in rare circumstances, it can last up to two weeks. Most people start to feel better after this period. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor. It’s important to let your healthcare provider know of any mood changes, as there are things TMS providers can do to make you more comfortable, such as changing positioning, frequency, or intensity.
Does Everyone Experience a Dip?
Not everyone experiences a TMS dip. Our data shows that many people start to feel a little better during the first week, feel a lot better by the second week, and continue to feel good around the third week. Some people might experience a small pullback in their positive assessment scores around this time before leveling out. If you do experience a dip, it is usually temporary and will pass.
Why Does a TMS Dip Happen?
Factors that may contribute to the dip include:
- Neuroplasticity: Firstly, as the brain adapts to the changes TMS makes to neural activity, it may initially respond with a temporary increase in symptoms before stabilizing.
- Brain Chemistry: Secondly, individual differences in brain chemistry and responsiveness to TMS could play a role in the occurrence of the dip.
- Past Trauma: Thirdly, the dip appears to be correlated with the presence of past trauma.
The dip doesn’t mean your condition is getting worse, nor does it predict whether TMS treatment will ultimately be effective for you or not. It’s just part of the adjustment process as your brain works to improve.
Benefits of TMS Therapy
Even with the possibility of a TMS dip, many people find TMS therapy very helpful. It can help with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Stick with it, and you might see great results.
TMS therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that has been shown to be effective for people who have not responded well to traditional treatments like medication and talk therapy. Unlike medications, TMS does not cause systemic side effects because it targets specific areas of the brain. Many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms, and some even achieve complete remission from their depression. Despite the initial dip, the long-term benefits of TMS can be life-changing.
FAQs
How long can a TMS dip last?
A TMS dip usually lasts for the first few weeks of treatment. Most people start to feel better after this period.
The dip typically occurs around the second or third week and can last for a few days to a week. In rare cases, it can last up to two weeks. Everyone’s experience is different, so the exact duration can vary.
Why does TMS dip happen?
The TMS dip occurs because the brain is adjusting to the new treatment. It is rewiring itself, which can cause temporary changes in symptoms.
Factors contributing to the dip include neuroplasticity, individual brain chemistry, and past trauma. This temporary change is part of the brain’s adjustment process.
What is the relapse rate for TMS?
The relapse rate for TMS therapy is relatively low compared to other treatments. Many people experience long-term relief from their symptoms.
Studies have shown that TMS can provide lasting benefits, with many patients experiencing significant improvement for months or even years after treatment.
Is TMS better than antidepressants?
TMS can be a good option for people who do not respond well to antidepressants. It is non-invasive and has fewer side effects.
Unlike antidepressants, which can cause a range of side effects throughout the body, TMS targets specific areas of the brain, minimizing the risk of systemic side effects.
Contact American TMS Clinics Today
Are you ready to see if TMS therapy is right for you? Contact American TMS Clinics today to find out if you qualify for a free EEG and psychiatric evaluation. Our experienced team is here to help you on your journey to better mental health in Phoenix, Arizona. Let’s work together to help you feel better!
