When considering a new treatment for depression, it’s natural to wonder how it will fit into your everyday life. Many people worry they’ll need to take time off work, arrange transportation, or put their normal routine on hold. Fortunately, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy is designed to be a non-invasive outpatient treatment that allows most people to continue with their regular activities.
At Mindful Care NM, one of the most common questions we hear is whether patients can work, drive, and exercise while receiving TMS. For many individuals, the answer is yes.
Can You Drive Yourself to and From Appointments?
Unlike treatments that require sedation or anesthesia, TMS therapy does not affect your ability to stay awake or alert during your appointment. Patients remain fully conscious throughout each session, and there is typically no recovery period afterward.
Because of this, many people are able to drive themselves to and from treatment and continue with the rest of their day. If you have specific questions about your situation, your provider can discuss them with you before treatment begins.
Can You Continue Working?
One of the reasons many people appreciate TMS therapy is that it can often fit into an already busy schedule. Sessions are performed on an outpatient basis and generally last less than an hour, making it possible for many patients to schedule appointments before work, during a lunch break, or after the workday.
Since there is no downtime after treatment, many individuals return to work immediately following their appointment. Whether you work in an office, remotely, or have other daily responsibilities, TMS is often easier to incorporate into your routine than people expect.
Is It Safe to Exercise During Treatment?
For most patients, regular physical activity can continue throughout a course of TMS therapy. Walking, going to the gym, yoga, cycling, and other forms of exercise are generally not restricted simply because you’re receiving TMS.
Maintaining healthy habits, including regular movement, nutritious meals, and good sleep, may also support your overall well-being while you’re receiving treatment for depression. If you participate in intense physical activity or have questions about your individual health, your provider can offer personalized guidance.
Keeping Up With Everyday Life
Depression treatment shouldn’t always require putting your life on hold. Many patients continue caring for their families, attending school, running errands, and participating in hobbies while completing a course of TMS therapy.
Knowing that you can often maintain your normal routine helps remove one of the biggest concerns people have before beginning treatment.
Every Person's Experience Is Different
Although most people are able to continue their usual activities throughout treatment, every person’s medical history and circumstances are unique. Your provider will review your health history, answer your questions, and explain what you can expect based on your individual needs.
Open communication throughout treatment allows your care team to monitor your progress and ensure you’re receiving the support you need.
