A Patient’s Experience – Sassy’s Story

Freelance disability blogger and journalist, Sassy Wyatt, developed depression after losing her sight in her teens.

She answered some of our frequently asked questions about TMS treatment.

How does depression manifest itself?

Depression can manifest itself in many different ways. For instance, you may feel extremely low or sad, you could feel hopeless, or like Sassy, you could feel angry, moody or suicidal at times.

What are the side effects of antidepressants?

Antidepressants affect everyone differently. Like Sassy, many people feel extremely tired and lethargic. Other side effects might include weight gain, nausea, irritability, anxiety and sexual dysfunction.

What impact can depression have on your life?

Depression can take over your entire life and the lives of those around you. It can impact on your relationships and friendships, your self-worth and the enjoyment you get from the things you love.

Why choose TMS to treat depression?

Antidepressants don’t work for everyone, and for some the side effects are unbearable. At Smart TMS, 75% of our patients see improvements in their symptoms, with 60% going into remission.

What should I consider before starting TMS?

If you have any concerns prior to beginning your TMS treatment, your patient advisor can arrange for you to visit your practitioner, see the clinic and familiarise yourself with the TMS procedure.

What happens during your first TMS session?

Your first TMS session is longer than average. You’ll meet your practitioner and have your measurements taken that make sure the treatment works best for you as an individual.

What would a typical TMS treatment session be like?

At Smart TMS, we pride ourselves on our patient care. Whether you would like to chat to your practitioner, have a snooze or read a book, your session is personal to you as an individual.

Who will be administering the treatment?

At Smart TMS, our specially trained practitioners carry out your treatment in clinic. Where possible, you’ll see the same practitioner each day to allow you to build a positive relationship with them.

But, does TMS treatment actually work?

We don’t claim that TMS will work for everyone. However, the results are clear and hundreds of Smart TMS patients have gone into remission from depression, even when medication had failed.

What’s the overall experience with Smart TMS?

Our values are to be:

Honest, Open, Passionate and Excellent.

We aim to display HOPE in every aspect of your patient experience.

How long does TMS treatment last for?

As with everything, each patient is different and research suggests that one in three could relapse within the first 12 months.

Some patients like to have monthly Continuous Care sessions following their treatment, but others find that they don’t need the extra boost.

If you did find yourself beginning to relapse, we offer short courses of treatment to get you back on track.