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| Many people who struggle with depression now have an option that can help them lead a more productive and successful life. Serenity Center for Depression, under the direction of Dr. Kimberly Cress, now offers an innovative and effective treatment for depression. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) was FDA approved for treatment of depression in October 2008. TMS is a safe alternative for those who have not found relief from other anti-depressant therapies or have experienced side effects from medications. TMS uses a magnet similar in strength to the one used in an MRI. It is placed on the left front portion of the head. This magnet turns on and off rapidly, generating a highly concentrated magnetic field. The pulsed magnetic field stimulates nerve cells within the area of the brain thought to control mood. When these nerve cells are activated, they release chemicals (neurotransmitters) that are naturally found in the brain, ie. serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These are the same chemicals provided by anti-depressant medications, but with TMS, there is not the risk of side effects seen in anti-depressants. Individuals stop medication due to side effects such as sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and nausea compared to little to no side effects with TMS. Dramatic improvements have been seen as a result of TMS. After TMS therapy, Gail said, “I have had depression a number of years and have taken several different medications. Some did not work at all, some worked for awhile, and some did have an impact. However, none have had the impact that TMS has had. I no longer wake up in the morning wondering if I’ll be able to push myself enough to get one thing done or will it be another day of languishing around the house. Now, I wake up and plan what I’ll get done and what I will do for myself as a reward. I do not look at each day as just another one to get through. I look at it as a new beginning. I am no longer a person just surviving my depression. I’m a happy person with the motivation to make a life for myself. That is what six weeks of TMS has given to me.” TMS was ranked by CNN as one of the top 10 health innovations of 2009. We at the Serenity Center for Depression are proud to be the first in our area to provide this alternative treatment for depression. For more information, please contact Dr. Cress at 281.240.4322 or visit her website at www.myserenitycenter.com.
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