Like any other treatment, simply showing up helps—but putting in a little effort on your end can make a huge difference in the effectiveness of your treatment. The same goes for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to activate nerve cells in the brain that help regulate mood and emotions. It’s often used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. For more information on TMS, check out our full blog that dives into this innovative treatment.
If you’re considering this needle-free approach, here are a few ways you can maximize your TMS treatment—before, during, and after your sessions.
Before Your TMS Treatment
Build a healthy sleep routine
Good sleep habits can lead to better results from your TMS treatment. TMS helps certain areas of the brain function more effectively, and sleep gives those areas time to rest and recover. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Make your bedroom a comfortable, calming space, and avoid screens before bed. These small habits help your brain recharge and get the most out of each session.
Eat a nourishing, balanced diet
It goes without saying, but your brain runs better on good fuel. Eating a balanced diet—especially foods rich in omega-3s and antioxidants—supports brain health. Incorporate salmon, walnuts, leafy greens, and seeds to your diet. Try to avoid heavily processed foods. Giving your brain the necessary nutrients help set you up for better results with TMS.
Move your body
You don’t need to jump into a full workout routine. The best way to make changes is to start small and stay consistent. Even simple activities like walking, stretching, or swimming can get your cardiovascular system working, improve mental clarity, and uplift your mood. Movement naturally supports mental health, and it can enhance those benefits when paired with TMS.
Practice self-awareness
Take a few minutes each day to pause and reflect. Give yourself a moment to better understand your emotions, behaviors, and triggers. A few minutes a day of reflection can help you better realize what’s affecting your mood. You can start by asking yourself: How am I feeling right now? What might be triggering these feelings—good or bad? Is there something I need to act on, or can I let this feeling go? This kind of reflection builds a stronger connection with yourself, which TMS is designed to support.
Stay connected to your social group
Connecting with friends and family is essential for emotional support and a sense of community. Engage in meaningful conversations, share a few laughs, or simply enjoy each other’s company. Emotional connections can enhance mental well-being, so avoid isolation, especially on challenging days.
During Your TMS Treatment
Stay alert during treatment
While it might be tempting to zone out or nap during your treatment, staying alert can help you get the most benefit. Consider drawing, writing, or watching a show to stimulate brain activity while you undergo the treatment. By stimulating your brain, TMS will more effectively target those active neuronal pathways.
Stay consistent with your sessions and medications
Just like any other habit, consistency is fundamental to achieving long-lasting results. While one session may improve your symptoms, repeated treatments help train and promote brain activity in the correct area. Try to keep your appointments at a regular, convenient time, and stick with other parts of your mental health care, like talk therapy or any medications your doctor recommends.
After your TMS treatment
Track your progress and be patient
Remember that change doesn’t happen overnight—not with habits or with treatment, so give yourself some grace. Sometimes, small progress can be overlooked, which can feel discouraging. Keep a journal to note how you are feeling, any changes you’ve noticed, or any new insights. Reflecting on those entries can help you recognize your achievements and the momentum you’ve built.
By taking these steps, you can get a head start and significantly enhance the effectiveness of your TMS treatment. Before starting your TMS therapy, talk to your provider to see what lifestyle changes you can incorporate to maximize your TMS treatment.
Contact Bluewater Psychiatry
If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about TMS treatment, contact Bluewater Psychiatry.