Major depressive disorder (MDD) is much more than just having a bad day. When you are living with MDD, the symptoms can interfere with your daily functioning, your relationships, and even your ability to enjoy the things you once deeply cared about. You may feel stuck, and even with medication or therapy, it might seem like you are not making any progress.
We know how overwhelming this can be, and we want you to know you are not alone. If you have been wondering, “What is major depressive disorder (MDD)?”—and what other options might be available—you have come to the right place. At Cedar Park TMS, we can help you discover new paths to hope. One such option is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), an FDA-approved, medication-free treatment for depression, especially for those who are resistant to traditional approaches. Below, we guide you through what MDD is, how it affects your life, and how we can assist you.
So, what exactly is major depressive disorder (MDD)? MDD, or clinical depression, is a more severe mental health condition than ordinary sadness. It usually involves a low mood that persists for most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or longer. Some people with MDD also experience hopelessness, loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy, and difficulties with energy, concentration, or sleep.
Unlike occasional sadness, MDD can affect every aspect of your life. You may find that you struggle to keep up with school, work, or family responsibilities. For some individuals, symptoms are minor, but for others, they are more intense and debilitating.
Typical symptoms of MDD include:
If these symptoms sound familiar, you may have MDD. We can help you find the right treatment, even if you have not found relief from previous efforts.
Once you understand what major depressive disorder is, you can explore different treatment options. Today, the vast majority of medical professionals treat depression with a combination of medication and talk therapy. These are often effective in the early stages, but they may not work for everybody. You may need to try other methods, such as TMS.
TMS is an FDA-approved therapy for treatment-resistant depression. It sends magnetic pulses to the parts of the brain that control mood, which are often underactive in people with MDD. The treatment is noninvasive and requires no medication, anesthesia, or downtime.
Each session lasts about five minutes, and most people are in and out of the office within 15 minutes. The full course of treatment typically lasts about nine weeks, and we will work with you every step of the way.
When other treatments fail, TMS could be a viable option. Physicians use TMS most frequently to treat people with MDD who:
At our clinic, we know each patient by name. We are not a large franchise—we are your neighbors. Since 2008, we have been providing medication management, and since 2018, we have also offered TMS therapy. We understand what it is like to live with the frustration and impact of MDD, and we are here to assist you in breaking free from its grip.
Understanding what MDD looks like is the first step toward finding a treatment that works. Schedule an evaluation with us today.
If you find yourself wondering, “What is major depressive disorder (MDD)?” and feel you are out of options, do not worry; you still have hope. There are multiple treatment options available, and you do not need to face it alone.
We are passionate about delivering local, customized treatment in Austin. Whether you are new to treatment or have tried a few different things in the past, we want to help you discover what works for you. Contact us to schedule a consultation and determine if TMS treatment is the next step in your mental health journey.
