At Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry, we are committed to offering innovative mental health treatments that go beyond traditional therapies. One such advanced treatment is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive procedure that has shown promising results, especially for patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who have not responded to conventional therapies like medications. While TMS is widely known for its efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms, there is growing interest in its potential to improve cognitive function in patients with MDD.
The Cognitive Deficits of MDD
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a severe mental health condition that affects not only mood but also cognitive processes such as memory, attention, and executive function. Cognitive control, a key brain function centered in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), plays a vital role in regulating thoughts, decision-making, and goal-directed behavior. In individuals with MDD, this cognitive control is often impaired, leading to difficulties in concentration, memory, and problem-solving, which can persist even after mood symptoms improve.
While psychotropic medications are effective for many, they do not always address these cognitive deficits. This has led researchers and clinicians to explore alternative treatments like TMS, which offers hope for improving both emotional and cognitive symptoms in patients with MDD.
How Does TMS Work?
TMS involves the use of magnetic pulses to stimulate specific regions of the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is associated with mood regulation and cognitive function. The procedure is non-invasive, meaning it does not require surgery or anesthesia. During a TMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed on the scalp, and the magnetic pulses stimulate nerve cells in areas of the brain that are underactive in patients with depression.
TMS is typically administered over a period of 4-6 weeks, with each session lasting about 20 to 40 minutes. Patients remain awake during the procedure, and there is no downtime, making it a convenient option for many individuals.
Cognitive Benefits of TMS in MDD Patients
Recent studies suggest that TMS may do more than just improve mood—it may also enhance cognitive functioning in patients with MDD. In a comprehensive review of 21 studies examining the cognitive effects of TMS, many showed significant improvements in areas such as:
- Inhibition: The ability to suppress irrelevant or harmful impulses.
- Attention: Increased focus and concentration.
- Set Shifting/Flexibility: The ability to switch between tasks or mental frameworks efficiently.
- Memory: Improvements in both working memory and long-term recall.
These cognitive improvements were most pronounced in tasks related to inhibition, attention, and memory—critical functions that are often disrupted in MDD. However, the review also highlighted areas where TMS had less impact, such as visuospatial function, recognition tasks, and executive function, suggesting that more research is needed to understand the full range of TMS’s cognitive benefits.
TMS at Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry
At Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry, we believe in providing personalized and holistic care. We understand that each patient’s experience with depression is unique, and so is their response to treatments. Our TMS therapy is designed to address not only the emotional burden of depression but also the cognitive challenges that often accompany it.
Our clinic is led by Dr. Dharmendra Kumar, a highly experienced psychiatrist who is dedicated to using cutting-edge treatments like TMS to improve the lives of patients. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Kumar and his team ensure that each patient receives individualized care in a compassionate and supportive environment.
Why Choose Us for TMS Therapy?
- Expertise: Our team is trained in the latest TMS protocols, ensuring that you receive the most effective treatment for your specific needs.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest TMS equipment to deliver precise and safe stimulation.
- Personalized Care: We tailor our TMS protocols based on each patient’s symptoms, history, and goals for treatment.
- Holistic Approach: In addition to TMS, we offer a range of complementary therapies, including counseling and lifestyle interventions, to support your overall mental and emotional well-being.
Is TMS Right for You?
If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression and experiencing cognitive difficulties, TMS may be a promising option. While it is not a one-size-fits-all solution, the evidence suggests that TMS can provide significant benefits, both for mood regulation and cognitive enhancement. At Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry, we are here to help you explore whether TMS is the right path for your journey to recovery.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how TMS can be part of your personalized mental health care plan.
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References-
Hernández-Sauret, A., Martin de la Torre, O., & Redolar-Ripoll, D. (2024). Use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for studying cognitive control in depressed patients: A systematic review. Cognitive, Affective, & Behavioral Neuroscience, 1-36.