Treating the Source Rather than the Symptoms
Most scientists believe that mental illnesses result from problems with the communication between neurons in the brain (neurotransmission). For example, the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin is lower in individuals who have depression. This finding led to the development of certain medications for this imbalance. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) work by reducing the amount of serotonin that is taken back into the presynaptic neuron. This leads to an increase in the amount of serotonin available in the synaptic space for binding to the receptor on the postsynaptic neuron. Changes in other neurotransmitters (in addition to serotonin) may occur in depression, thus adding to the complexity of the underlying disease. (source)
Treating the source rather than the symptom can be a common struggle for anyone who is struggling with depression and or anxiety, along with addiction and other mental disorders and diseases. Here at The Healing House, we believe in treating the source (the root cause) rather than just the symptom (and avoiding unwanted systemic side effects of medication).
To understand how TMS treats the root cause, visit our TMS 101 or watch the short clip below.
With Depression, the doctor will focus on the left Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC) region of the brain. This depolarizes the neurons in that lobe, stimulating monoamine neurotransmitters and increased function of the electrical circuits that drive brain activity. An increase in brain activity increases blood flow, oxygen levels and sugar metabolism; the result is improved activity of the 'feel good' neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine) which drastically alleviates the symptoms of depression and which provides an opportunity to achieve full remission (elimination of symptoms) for 50% and a positive response (greater than 50% reduction in symptoms) for 78% of the people that complete this protocol.
For Anxiety, TMS is considered an 'off-label' protocol, but has been used widely to help people with anxieties and traumas. The focus of this treatment is on the right Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC) region of the brain so that the neurons are polarized and that brain activity is better regulated.
Mariah shares her TMS testimonial and how it changed her life.