6 Ways TMS ruined my life – Everything about TMS

TMS ruined my life

TMS—Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation—is hailed as a revolutionary treatment for depression and other mental health conditions. But while some people claim it has given them their lives back, others tell a much different story. This is one of those stories.

A friend of mine underwent TMS hoping for clarity, emotional balance, and a brighter future. What he got instead was a version of himself he barely recognized—flat emotions, cognitive difficulties, and an unsettling sense that something essential had been erased. He’s not alone. Across the internet, people have expressed their concerns, with phrases like “TMS ruined my life” surfacing in discussions, particularly on Reddit.

What is TMS though?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It’s primarily marketed as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) and has also been used for conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. The idea is that by targeting specific areas of the brain, TMS can help regulate mood and cognitive functions.

TMS is often recommended when traditional medications and therapies fail. Some claim it’s a miracle treatment, while others compare it to an updated, shinier version of a lobotomy. Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which uses electric currents to induce seizures, TMS supposedly offers a gentler alternative with fewer side effects. But as with any treatment, there are risks involved.

For those skeptical of TMS, alternative treatment options often include:

  • Medication Adjustments – Some individuals find relief through changes in their psychiatric medications.

  • Therapy-Based Approaches – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy can sometimes be more effective for certain individuals.

  • Holistic & Lifestyle Changes – Exercise, diet modifications, meditation, and sleep hygiene play critical roles in mental health improvement.

  • Psychedelic Therapy – Emerging research into ketamine, psilocybin, and MDMA-assisted therapy has shown promise for treatment-resistant depression.

Despite these options, many still turn to TMS hoping for relief—but for some, the results don’t live up to expectations.

How TMS Ruined my Life... or my friends life

1. Emotional Flatline

After undergoing TMS, my friend—let’s call him Bob—was promised a life free from the shackles of depression. Instead, he emerged as an emotional zombie. Gone were the days of hearty laughter and occasional tears. Now, Bob’s emotional range spans from mild indifference to… well, nothing. It’s as if TMS turned his emotional dial to “mute.”

2. Cognitive Fog

Bob used to be the go-to guy for trivia nights. Post-TMS, remembering his own phone number became a Herculean task. Some individuals have reported cognitive impairments post-treatment, feeling as though their mental clarity has taken a vacation without them.

3. Physical Side Effects

Headaches? Check. Scalp discomfort? Double-check. Bob’s scalp now has a constant reminder of his TMS sessions. While these side effects are often temporary, they can be persistent and bothersome for some.

4. Emotional Rollercoaster

Instead of stabilizing his mood, TMS seemed to have handed Bob a ticket to the wildest emotional rollercoaster. Reports suggest that some patients experience increased anxiety or mood swings during or after TMS treatment.

5. Seizure Surprises

In rare cases, TMS has been associated with seizures. Bob, unfortunately, became one of these rare cases, experiencing unexpected seizures post-treatment. While the risk is low, it’s a serious consideration for potential patients.

6. Identity Crisis

Perhaps the most profound impact was on Bob’s sense of self. The vibrant, witty individual we once knew seemed to have been replaced by a hollow shell. Some individuals have reported a loss of their defining characteristics post-TMS, leading to feelings of depersonalization.

Will TMS ruin your life?

While TMS has been a beacon of hope for many battling depression, it’s essential to approach it with a discerning mind. For some, like Bob, the journey led to unforeseen challenges. Always consult with healthcare professionals, weigh the potential risks, and consider seeking multiple opinions before embarking on the TMS path.

References other than the observational ones

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