I started the NeuroStar TMS treatment Tuesday. Several people have expressed interest in the treatment so I’ll share what it’s been like for me thus far.
NeuroStar transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) targets, “key areas of the brain that are underactive in people with depression (NeuroStar website).” This treatment is for those of us who have not had long-term success with medication therapy.
Most insurance companies will pay for the treatment if you can show you’ve tried a variety of medications but none have worked for you. My insurance requires me to pay my co-pay with every treatment, and since I get treatment five days a week, that’s going to cost me, but I have nothing to lose so I’m going for it.
My treatment program will include 36 sessions. During the first session my brain was “mapped.” They were stimulating my Primary Motor Cortex looking for the spot that made my right thumb jump. This can take an hour or more to locate. For me it took approximately 35 minutes. Once they found that sweet spot, they could locate my Prefrontal Cortex. This is the part of my brain the TMS stimulates.
I was able to schedule my treatment sessions after work so there’s no disruption to my work life. During each 30-minute treatment I recline in a chair not unlike a dentist chair. A piece of equipment is placed against the left side of my head and a headrest on the right side of my head. Treatment consists of a series of magnetic “taps” on my head followed by a short rest period. To me it feels like a woodpecker tapping on my head, but the treatment is not invasive and there’s no soreness afterward. I sit and play games on my phone during treatment and before you know it I’m done. Afterward I can resume regular activities.
I was told I’d start noticing improvement about halfway through, but I’m already noticing some change. It could be a placebo effect, but my treatment nurse did say some people do experience changes in mood early in treatment. In my case I feel more energized and less overwhelmed. I’ve caught myself singing, which is something I usually do when I’m feeling good. I smiled and waved at two neighbors yesterday while walking with Molly, which is something I don’t normally do. And have you seen my Facebook postings? I’ve posted more in the past week than I have in months. That’s different.
I’m excited about these changes and I’m hoping it lasts. I’ll keep you posted on how things go and after treatment ends I’ll tell you if it was worth it.
Dogpaddling Through Life 
That sounds promising! How wonderful that your insurance covers some of it, too!
It is wonderful. I don’t know if I’d be able to do this otherwise.
That is great news.
That’s encouraging that you’re feeling results right away.
I think so but dare I hope this feeling will stay?
Way I look at it is every good moment is a gift. If the past is a predictor of the future then that’s a really good start! Will keep fingers and paws crossed for you this end.
Hopefully you continue to feel better. We recently received a notice from a newly opened clinic to treat depression that mentioned the use of Ketamine. We decided we weren’t quite THAT depressed yet.
If this doesn’t work I’m trying that next.
Good luck and wishing you well 💜💜
sounds fabulous! congrats! love your spunk!
I hope the improvement continues.
Santa’s chair needs securing to the ground! If there’s a really windy night he could wake up anywhere!
The grass looks quite brown. Is it still warm and dry where you are?
Oh no. December ushers in the rainy season, where the temperatures play a game of chicken with the rain. Every once in awhile they both go full-tilt and we end up with snow. Or ice. But mostly it’ll be rain.
Jen! We’re cautiously excited about the improvement you’re experiencing after just a few NeuroStar TMS treatments. And glad that your insurance is covering it. Fingers crossed! Oh, and nice cat mask. 🙂
You cracked us up about Creepy Santa being a drunkard. Hahaha.
Creepy Santa reminds me of one of
My step-fathers.
such an interesting process — and the injection of the creepy Santa was an added bonus.
Creepy Santa is a pervert.
What exciting and encouraging news! Hope the relief continues 🤞🏼 P.S. As for blow up Santa, all I can say is…psst. 😈
This is the most fabulous news! May it keep going with each session.