In just two weeks, I experienced a significant change: I no longer felt any suicidal ideation. It was astonishing to realize that I could go for extended periods without those feelings.
Lacey, TMS patient
We’re proud of the technology, team, and process we offer our patients seeking Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment.
(New to TMS? Learn more about it here.)
And as we witness each patient experience the benefits for themselves, we’re right there celebrating alongside them!
This week, we’re talking with Lacey about her experience with TMS:
Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Lacey! Can you share a bit about what life felt like prior to beginning TMS treatment?
My primary challenges included contamination OCD and major depressive disorder. The burden of constant hand-washing intensified the struggle with suicidal ideation, making it a daily ordeal. My evenings were dominated by spending 1-2 hours washing my hands before bed, driven by the feeling that they were never truly clean. This habit gradually evolved into a daily routine.
I came to realize I needed help when the relentless washing led to water blisters forming on my hands. Upon seeking ointment for the blisters, my doctor insisted that I consult a psychiatrist to assess for OCD.
What had you tried (before TMS) to address these challenges?
I attempted both medication and therapy. Although the medication provided some relief for my OCD, it also left me feeling quite agitated. Consequently, I discontinued the medication and focused solely on therapy.
Previously, due to my contamination OCD, getting dressed would take me an hour; now it only takes 15 minutes. Through therapy, I acquired coping mechanisms to alleviate excessive hand washing and persistent overthinking resulting from my depression. While therapy has proven beneficial, my OCD symptoms still persisted.
Any hesitations about exploring TMS for yourself? What made you decide to give it a try?
I learned about TMS from TikTok, where two women were discussing their positive experiences. This prompted me to search for TMS clinics near my location.
My initial hesitation revolved around the financial aspect. While I was appreciative that my insurance covered a significant portion, there remained a residual cost. Initially, my mom had offered to cover the expense, but she later informed me that I would be responsible for the payment.
In the insurance letter I received by mail, it was indicated that they would cover the cost of TMS for this particular instance. Recognizing the opportunity while my insurance coverage was available, I decided to give it a try. I used my “safety net” money to cover the expenses of TMS.
What was the experience like for you?
The treatment experience for me was both challenging and rewarding. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the staff at the clinic were very supportive and informative. It was encouraging to see positive changes and to know that I was taking proactive steps toward my well-being.
What were some of the first changes you noticed after beginning treatment?
In just two weeks, I experienced a significant change: I no longer felt any suicidal ideation. It was astonishing to realize that I could go for extended periods without those feelings, not just weeks but even days, hours, and minutes.
As for my OCD, I began noticing that I grew more at ease with being in discomfort. While I used to compulsively wash my hands every time I touched something “contaminated”, I found that I could now comfortably watch an entire 30-minute to an hour-long show without feeling the need to wash my hands beforehand.
How does life feel different now, after TMS treatment?
Life after TMS is quite positive!
Occasionally, with regards to my OCD, I’ll recall a compulsive action but not experience the associated trigger. In those moments, I remind myself that I don’t need to wash my hands compulsively every time I touch something, as the trigger isn’t present anymore.
Additionally, I’ve observed improvements in my depression, even during a breakup that occurred before my TMS treatment.
Any advice or encouragement you’d like to share with someone considering TMS?
Taking the step to email a TMS clinic and arrange a consultation is worth it.
What caught my attention about Sonder was their consistent emails and the reassurances they provided regarding TMS.
Thank you, Lacey! We’re honored to have worked with you.
Want to take part in our TMS pilot study?
Call (952) 999-6097 or email us at tms@sonderwellness.com
Inspired by what Lacey shared? Interested in learning more about TMS?
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Enjoy this post? Check out these other posts about TMS:
TMS Patient Experience: Whytnee
TMS Patient Experience: Amy
TMS: The Promising Depression Treatment You’ve Never Heard Of
Preparing for Your TMS Evaluation
5 Reasons to Choose Sonder Psychiatry
Meet the Providers: Erin Fritz
Meet the Providers: Lisa Lemke
Meet the Providers: Daniele (Dani) Hagberg