When it comes to facing the challenges of mental health and substance use disorders, women deserve a compassionate and comprehensive approach to treatment. For many, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) offers a hopeful option, especially when other methods have fallen short. TMS is a noninvasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate targeted areas of the brain, often helping with conditions such as depression. Understanding transcranial magnetic stimulation side effects and their impact on treatment and recovery is essential.
At Women’s Recovery in Colorado, we’re here to help you understand your options with care, clarity, and compassion. We offer a TMS treatment program and outpatient behavioral health treatment options and services that address substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Don’t hesitate to contact us today with any questions or to get started with treatment.
What Is TMS Therapy?
Living with both addiction and mental health challenges can seem overwhelming, especially if initial treatment approaches have not been effective. TMS is particularly useful for treating clinical depression that hasn’t responded to medications or other therapies. Because depression often plays a significant role in addiction, addressing it can create the foundation for a more successful recovery.
The process itself is straightforward. TMS involves placing an electromagnetic coil on your scalp. The coil sends gentle pulses to areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. Sessions are typically short, and many women find it empowering to use a non-drug treatment that complements other recovery efforts.
Yet, even with all its benefits, TMS may not be the right choice for everyone. Understanding its potential side effects before beginning is essential in deciding if this therapy fits into your recovery plan.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Side Effects
TMS is generally well tolerated, especially compared to more invasive treatments. Still, like any procedure, it has the potential for mild to moderate side effects. Knowing what to expect can reduce apprehension and help you prepare for the therapy.
Here are some common side effects of TMS therapy that many women experience:
Mild Headaches or Scalp Discomfort
These are the most reported side effects. The treatment uses magnetic pulses, and that sensation can feel unusual at first. Most headaches are manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and tend to subside after the first few sessions.
Muscle Twitching or Tingling
The stimulation may cause slight muscle twitches in your face or scalp. While this might feel strange, it’s usually harmless and temporary.
Lightheadedness
Some women report feeling lightheaded immediately after their session. Resting for a few minutes typically relieves this, and it rarely interferes with completing daily tasks.
Fatigue
TMS treatments can be tiring, especially during the adjustment period. Taking time to rest between sessions is important, especially if you’re balancing recovery efforts with other commitments.
Mood Swings or Emotional Sensitivity
During the first treatment phase, you may feel more emotional than usual. This can sometimes feel discouraging, but it can also signal that changes are happening in the brain.
It’s worth emphasizing that these effects are usually short-lived. Many women improve as their brain adjusts to the therapy. Some women may experience more intense side effects, such as seizures, though this risk is significantly minimized by careful screening before treatment starts. For women in recovery, it’s important to discuss any history of seizures or related conditions with your treatment team to ensure safety.
Contact Women’s Recovery in Colorado Today
Whether you’re considering TMS or exploring other options for dual diagnosis treatment, Women’s Recovery is here to guide you toward healing. Our programs are designed specifically for women in Colorado, offering the specialized care you deserve in a supportive environment that feels less like a clinic and more like a sanctuary.
Your recovery matters, and you don’t have to do it alone. Contact Women’s Recovery today online or call 833.754.0554 to learn more about how we can help. Together, we’ll find the right path forward—one that honors your strengths, respects your experiences, and leads you to lasting wellness.
