If you have not found relief from symptoms of major depressive disorder after several attempts at treatment, you may benefit from NeuroStar TMS therapy. This procedure uses a handheld device to stimulate specific parts of the brain with magnetic pulses.
The FDA has cleared TMS to manage not only treatment-resistant major depressive disorder but also obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxious depression, and adolescent depression. At Synergy Strive, in addition to providing personalized treatment, we discuss TMS and lifestyle changes with you to help you learn about optimizing your results.
TMS focuses on treating the part of the brain responsible for mood regulation. It sends brief magnetic pulses to stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. A deficiency of these chemicals is one possible cause of major depressive disorder, which is why TMS aims to help restore them to healthy levels.
Your Synergy Strive provider will meet with you to discuss the length and frequency of NeuroStar TMS sessions that will work best for your specific needs.
You can maximize your TMS results by incorporating positive lifestyle changes. Our friendly, knowledgeable providers are here to help you integrate these changes in a way that feels accessible and sustainable.
Sleep is essential for brain health and function, and it is important to aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night. TMS enhances communication between different regions of the brain; sleep supports this process by helping to solidify the newly formed neural pathways.
It is also helpful to limit screen time before bed and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
Our bodies and our brains are deeply connected. Numerous studies have shown that exercise releases endorphins, which boost your mood and support mental well-being. When combined with TMS treatment, exercise-related endorphins can further improve your overall well-being.
A healthy and balanced diet is another habit adjustment that may enhance the results of TMS. A recommended daily diet includes:
Proper hydration is also important. Additionally, deficiencies in nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc may increase symptoms of major depressive disorder.
Cortisol from chronic stress can hinder the benefits of TMS therapy. Because of this, practicing healthy stress management techniques is important when you begin TMS. You may benefit from deep breathing, journaling, yoga, and meditation.
Mental stimulation strengthens neural connections, which can enhance the effectiveness of TMS. Activities such as learning new skills, reading, making art or music, and completing strategy games or puzzles provide valuable exercise for the brain.
Drugs and alcohol can suppress the effects of TMS therapy. These substances can limit sleep, cognition, and nerve cell growth, all of which are important for supporting the benefits of TMS.
Establishing a routine in your daily life can help you minimize stress and monitor your health and wellness goals. It can also help you create time for self-care and remember NeuroStar TMS and other health appointments.
Starting NeuroStar TMS therapy is a positive step on your wellness journey, and you can make the most of your results by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Our providers at Synergy Strive can help you implement these routines into your daily life to help manage your symptoms. You are not alone in this process, and we are dedicated to helping you find emotional wellness.
Schedule a consultation with our team today for more information about NeuroStar TMS and lifestyle changes.