TMS for Bipolar Depression

TMS For Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Chestnut Hill

Living with untreated bipolar disorder can be incredibly disruptive and upsetting. Even though it's one of the most common mood disorders in the United States, affecting 2.3 million people, it remains a mental health condition that is widely misunderstood and negatively stigmatized.


Within all types of bipolar disorder exists depression. While this is what can make this specific type of disorder highly distressing, it is a symptom that can be treated along with the rest of the disorder. One of the most effective treatments for bipolar disorder is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy, which is a painless, outpatient procedure administered by Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill, PA.

TMS for Bipolar FAQ >>
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"As a potential alternative to bipolar medications which often have significant side effects, TMS for bipolar depression can really help restore your life."

Dr. Jonathan Beatty, Founder

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Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Founder

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TMS For Bipolar Disorder FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the different types of bipolar disorders?

    There are four different types of bipolar disorder, all of which present with their own symptoms:


    1. Bipolar I – Bipolar I, which is the most common of all bipolar disorders, is characterized by depressive and manic episodes. These episodes are often severe and last for weeks or months at a time.
    2. Bipolar II – Bipolar II is similar to bipolar I in that those who have it experience depressive and manic episodes. However, what makes bipolar II different from bipolar I is the intensity of symptoms. Individuals with this type of bipolar disorder will have manic and depressive episodes but they will not be as severe or last as long as episodes experienced in bipolar I.
    3. Cyclothymic Disorder – A step down from bipolar II, cyclothymic disorder also involves depressive and manic episodes. But, these episodes are much more mild than those experienced in bipolar I and II and don’t usually go into full-blown episodes. Additionally, they do not continue for as long as other forms of bipolar disorder.
    4. Mixed Features – Mixed features is not its own type of bipolar disorder, rather it is a feature that can occur in anyone with bipolar I, II, or cyclothymic disorders. Someone with mixed features may experience bouts of mania while in a depressive episode or vice versa.

    Contact Wave Treatment Centers for more information.

  • How does TMS Therapy help bipolar disorder?

    Having bipolar disorder means that areas of an individual’s brain do not function as they should, which is why their symptoms exist. But, when TMS therapy for bipolar disorder is used as a treatment option, those with bipolar disorder can start seeing significant improvements.


    The magnetism delivered through the coil helps specific regions of the brain begin functioning better. This treatment is designed to correct problem areas in the brain so that symptoms associated with conditions like bipolar disorder can be alleviated. When it comes to bipolar disorder specifically, studies have shown that repetitive TMS (rTMS) is the most effective form of TMS therapy for bipolar disorder.


    Contact Wave Treatment Centers for additional information.

  • What is TMS therapy for bipolar disorder?

    Transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, is a non-invasive, painless medical treatment that can be provided to those with mood disorders that involve depression or depressive episodes. It began being studied in the 1980s and, in 2008, became a treatment option in the United States. Despite some of the stigma that TMS therapy often gets, this treatment is safe and has helped improve the lives of many.


    TMS therapy works by stimulating specific areas of the brain that are understimulated due to the presence of depression. It involves placing a coil on the scalp of the patient that delivers stimulation to these areas. Patients can feel a pulsing vibration during this time, but this vibration is not painful. There are a few different types of TMS therapy, including:

    • Traditional TMS – Traditional TMS involves having the coil send a continuous stimulation to the brain without interruptions
    • rTMS – Repetitive TMS, or rTMS, sends fast and consecutive stimulations to the brain
    • Theta burst – Stimulations come in patterns and bursts during theta burst treatment. This type of TMS is designed to help reduce the time spent in a TMS session by targeting specific areas of the brain

    Approximately 60% of people who have struggled to get their symptoms of depression under control found success with TMS therapy.


    Contact Wave Treatment Centers for additional information.

  • Does insurance cover TMS therapy for bipolar disorder?

    While every insurance plan is different, many insurance companies offer coverage for TMS therapy for people dealing with mental health crisis.


    If you are considering TMS therapy for bipolar disorder, our caring staff will help you determine what your options are for insurance or other payment plans.


    Medicare covers TMS treatment for major depressive disorder in most cases, and may offer coverage for other conditions as well.


    Contact Wave Treatment Centers for additional information.

I appreciated the ease of the online interface for scheduling and communication. At my appointment, Dr. Beatty was professional and personable. Top marks.

Eric R.

Coping Mechanisms for Bipolar Disorder
By Jonathan A. Beatty, M.D. April 8, 2022
Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness characterized by episodes of mania and depression. During manic episodes, people may experience an overabundance of energy, decreased need for sleep, increased talkativeness, risk-taking behaviors, flight of ideas, and unrealistic beliefs. During depressive episodes, people may experience feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy, fatigue, low self-esteem, poor concentration, and suicidal thoughts. Thankfully, there are some coping mechanisms for bipolar disorder that can help those struggling with this complex condition.
Benefits Of TMS Therapy For Bipolar Disorder
By Jonathan A. Beatty, M.D. January 28, 2022
Bipolar disorder is characterized by unusual shifts in mood and energy. This mood disorder can disrupt your ability to maintain healthy relationships, keep a job, or pursue meaningful activities. However, TMS therapy for bipolar disorder can aid in managing the symptoms associated with your condition, especially when traditional treatment methods have proven ineffective.
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