When you’re struggling with depression or other mental health challenges, every step toward recovery matters. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy offers a noninvasive, medication-free way to restore balance in brain activity and improve mood. But while TMS is safe and effective for many, the success of your treatment depends not just on the sessions themselves, but also on how you prepare and care for yourself before, during, and after each appointment. Knowing what to avoid during TMS therapy can make a real difference in how well it works and how quickly you start feeling better.
Avoid Alcohol and Recreational Drugs
Alcohol and recreational substances can alter your brain chemistry, which is precisely what TMS aims to stabilize. Using them before or after sessions may reduce the therapy’s impact and increase the risk of unwanted side effects. For optimal results, it’s best to completely avoid alcohol and recreational drugs throughout your treatment period. Staying clear-headed allows your brain to respond naturally and consistently to the stimulation.
Skip Caffeine Before Your Session
While a cup of coffee might seem harmless, caffeine is a stimulant that can affect your nervous system and increase muscle tension. This can make it harder to relax during TMS and even contribute to headaches or restlessness afterwards. If you rely on caffeine, try limiting it to several hours before your appointment to keep your body calm and receptive during treatment.
Don’t Engage in Intense Exercise Right Before Treatment
Exercise is generally good for mental health, but strenuous workouts right before TMS can spike your adrenaline and heart rate, making it more difficult to relax during your session. Opt for gentle activities like walking, stretching, or yoga before treatment instead. You can always return to your normal workout routine later in the day once your body has had time to adjust.
Avoid Scheduling Stressful Activities Immediately After
TMS sessions can leave you feeling reflective or emotionally drained, even if the procedure itself is simple. Jumping straight into a busy workday, meetings, or high-stress tasks can disrupt your ability to process the treatment’s effects. Plan your day so you have time to unwind afterwards. Taking a short walk, journaling, or listening to calming music can help your brain integrate the session more effectively.
Avoid Skipping Sessions
Consistency is crucial in TMS therapy. Each session builds upon the previous one to reinforce brain pathways associated with mood regulation. Missing appointments or delaying sessions can interrupt progress and slow down recovery. Even when you start feeling better, it’s important to complete the full course as prescribed by your provider to sustain the benefits long-term.
Don’t Hide Symptoms or Side Effects
While most people tolerate TMS well, mild side effects like scalp discomfort or temporary headaches can occur. Ignoring or underreporting these symptoms might lead to unnecessary discomfort or prevent proper adjustments. Always communicate openly about how you’re feeling so your provider can fine-tune the treatment settings or offer relief strategies.
Avoid Overstimulation
Activities that heighten emotional intensity, such as watching distressing news, arguing, or consuming highly stimulating media, can increase stress levels and interfere with your mental calm before treatment. Instead, create a peaceful environment leading up to your session. Deep breathing, light reading, or meditation can help set the right tone for your brain to respond positively.
Concluding Remarks
The success of TMS therapy doesn’t depend on the machine alone, but it also depends on how you prepare, respond, and care for yourself throughout the journey. By avoiding certain habits and creating a supportive environment for healing, you give your mind and body the best chance to embrace positive change. TMS works best when you work with it, not against it, and a few mindful choices can make all the difference in your path to recovery.
