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Once every four years we witness the spectacle of the Olympics. It is a triumph of human grit, determination, hard work, luck and endurance. The various sports disciplines generate lot of interest, discussion, controversy and debates. For a month it manages to shift eyeballs from Netflix to the athletes. A few instances and events stand out and probably there is something for us to learn from them.   Team work:  Our table tennis women’s team for the first time reached quarterfinals beating a higher ranked Romania. Individual performers came together for the victory of the team. Team sports whether hockey, football or relay races depend on collaboration, communication and trust. These principles extend beyond sports emphasizing the importance of effective teamwork in workplaces, communities and relationships.   Burden of Expectations:   The archery team has been trying to prove themselves at the biggest stage but fall short every time. Lakshya Sen did so well to reach the semifinals but could not cross the line. In life we get weighed down by the burden of our own expectations. And when it becomes too great, we get overwhelmed and perform below our potential.  Enjoy the efforts, the outcome will follow you.  Determination Manu Bhaker won the nations hearts by winning two bronze medals. Overcoming the disappointment of the last Olympics she showed true determination to come back strongly this time. Success depends on unwavering commitment to our goals.   Resilience: With one man down, the hockey team showed remarkable resilience to face adversity and prevail in the quarterfinal match. Athletes face formidable challenges from injuries to setbacks and yet rise above every obstacle. The ability to bounce back despite adversity is a true test of character and determines success. Mind over Matter: The most viral image of this Olympics was that of the Turkish Shooter Yusuf Dikec whose nonchalant way of shooting without eye gear and with hands in the pocket caught everyone’s imagination. His whole demeanor reflected confidence and a calm composure. An anxious mind prevents one from achieving our potential. This is so crucial for success! Life is a coach:  Success is a right mix of dedication, hard work, experience and luck shaped in the right direction.  Djokovic proved why he is the Greatest Of All Times. He brought all his experience and learning together in the final to prevail over his much younger rival. The day we cease to learn, we cease to exist. Life is a coach, be a student till the very end.

Introduction: A cancer diagnosis often brings with it a torrent of emotions, including fear, uncertainty, and despair. The weight of the disease, coupled with the rigors of treatment, can lead to heightened levels of depression among patients. Research indicates that up to 20-30% of individuals diagnosed with common cancers such as breast, uterus, lung, pancreas, stomach, and intestines are at risk of developing depression, with higher rates observed in the young and in women. Causes of Depression in Cancer Patients: Psychological Impact of Diagnosis: The mere revelation of a cancer diagnosis can induce a profound sense of dread and hopelessness. Facing mortality and the challenges of treatment can be overwhelming, triggering depressive symptoms. Physical and Emotional Toll of Treatment: Cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, often come with a myriad of side effects. The physical toll, combined with the emotional strain of coping with the changes in one’s body, contributes significantly to the development of depression. Pain and Discomfort: Chronic pain, a common companion to cancer, can be a relentless source of distress. Constant pain not only affects the body but also takes a toll on mental well-being, contributing to the development or exacerbation of depressive symptoms. Chemotherapy-Induced Depression: Some chemotherapy drugs have been associated with mood changes, potentially leading to depression. The impact of these drugs on the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in the brain can contribute to the onset of depressive symptoms. Recognizing and Treating Depression in Cancer Patients: Recognition of depression in cancer patients is crucial for improving treatment outcomes, enhancing the quality of life, and increasing the likelihood of remission. The following strategies can be employed to address depression in cancer patients: Screening and Early Intervention: Implement routine screening for depression during cancer care assessments. Early detection allows for timely intervention, preventing the escalation of depressive symptoms. Integrated Care Approach: Foster collaboration between oncologists and mental health professionals to create an integrated care plan. This ensures that both the physical and emotional aspects of the patient’s well-being are addressed simultaneously. Pharmacological Intervention: In certain cases, pharmacological intervention, such as antidepressant medications, may be recommended. These can help stabilize mood and alleviate symptoms, promoting a more positive outlook. Psychosocial Support and Counseling: Engage patients in counseling sessions and support groups. Providing a safe space for patients to express their fears and emotions can be instrumental in coping with the psychological impact of cancer. End-of-Life Care: Introduce palliative care early in the treatment process. Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life, offering both physical and emotional support. Advance Care Planning: Facilitate discussions on advance care planning to ensure that patients’ preferences for end-of-life care are respected. This includes decisions about resuscitation, life-sustaining treatments, and hospice care. Emotional and Spiritual Support: Acknowledge the emotional and spiritual needs of patients and their families. Integrating chaplaincy services and providing access to counseling can offer comfort during challenging times. Dignified Endings: Prioritize efforts to ensure that patients experience a dignified and peaceful end. This involves managing symptoms effectively, fostering emotional support, and honoring the patient’s wishes. Recognizing and addressing depression in cancer patients is an integral aspect of holistic care. By acknowledging the psychological toll of the disease and its treatment, healthcare professionals can contribute significantly to improving patient outcomes, enhancing the quality of life, and supporting the journey toward remission.

M r. A is a 30-year-old IT professional. He got married last year after being in a relationship for eight years. They had a loving relationship; however, things began to deteriorate after marriage. Around the same time, Mr. A changed his job, which did not turn out as expected. He was dissatisfied with himself. The work began to feel like a burden, and he lost interest in everything. He became aloof, less communicative, and gave less time to the relationship. He had lost his libido. He started becoming irritable, leading to frequent arguments with his wife. She began to feel that he was not interested in the relationship, and eventually, after nine months, she started living separately from him. Mr. An approached manoshanti for help at this point. A detailed clinical and psychological evaluation revealed Mr. A was suffering from clinical depression. He started on medication and Cognitive Behavior Therapy. After around three weeks, he began to feel an improvement in his mood and regained his zest for life. At this point, the doctors involved his spouse in the counseling process, getting her to understand how his change in behavior since marriage was a symptom of depression and did not mean that he had lost interest in her. The couple are now back together in the process of rediscovering their love for each other. Love is in the air! Every human being seeks long-lasting relationships as a source of companionship and comfort. The attraction for another person involves a physical and emotional connection. Brain chemicals that regulate emotions, such as love and trust, build this connection. However, not all relationships last the distance. There has been a 350% increase in divorce rates in India over the last two decades. A significant reason for this is changing attitudes and perceptions about each other, taking relationships for granted, and a breakdown in healthy communication. In our experience, many couples seeking counselling to improve their relationship have an underlying undiagnosed depression. Diagnosing and treating depression helps to enhance the quality of the relationships and resolve issues. But how does the blues of depression impact a relationship? People with depression have a core problem of loss of pleasure in activities. Therefore, routine activities do not make them feel good and are irregular in their routine. The sadness and loss of interest extend to personal relationships, where they do not feel like being with family and close friends. People with depression have difficulty connecting with their family and friends and slowly isolate themselves. They avoid social situations and eventually drift away from the family. This situation worsens when they do not disclose their feelings and the partner cannot understand the behavior change. A loss of libido often accompanies depression. The partner may misinterpret these symptoms to mean a loss of interest in them or, worse still, as signs of an extramarital affair. Significant problems in marital relationships arise because either partner has emotional disturbances, leading to impaired response and poor adaptability to the relationship. Therefore, evaluating couples seeking help for emotional problems by qualified mental health professionals is essential. Medications and psychotherapy can help depression when identified. Couple counseling alone is seldom successful unless underlying emotional disturbances are identified and treated. Some signs of emotional disturbances to identify with partner. Being aloof and less communicative Loss of interest in everyday activities Feeling easily fatiguedLoss of sexual desire Irritable, snappy mood Sleep and appetite disturbances (either reduction or increase) Increase the use of substances to cope with the situation

Ankita (name changed), a vibrant 25-year-old girl was looking forward to her life and career. However, her world crumbled when she lost a beloved family member, plunging her into the abyss of depression. In the depths of despair, she attempted suicide but was rescued just in time. As Ankita embarked on her journey to recovery, she encountered the harsh reality of stigma. Employers were sceptical of her abilities, fearing she cannot handle pressure of work. Health insurance denied her coverage, citing attempted suicide as an exclusion. Friends and acquaintances treated her with an uncomfortable distance, reinforcing the isolating stigma surrounding mental health. Determined not to be defined by her struggle, with treatment and therapy, Ankita embraced her vulnerability as strength. Supportive friends saw her true worth beyond her struggles and she proved her resilience at her work place. Ankita's story reminds us that mental health challenges are part of the human experience. It's essential to seek help without shame and break free from stigma. On this Mental Health Day the theme for this year, "Mental Health: A Universal Right," underscores the undeniable truth that mental well-being is an essential human right that must be safeguarded and protected. Despite growing awareness, the world continues to grapple with the problem of mental health issues, which are often shrouded in stigma and discrimination. Discrimination can manifest in various ways, from subtle bias to overt exclusion. In workplaces, individuals with mental health conditions may be unfairly judged, passed over for promotions, or even terminated because of their condition. In society at large, the stigma associated with mental illness persists, preventing individuals from seeking help when they need it most. Friends, family, and communities may shun those who are open about their mental health issues, leading to isolation and further deterioration of their well-being. Another alarming aspect of the mental health crisis is the inequity in mental health insurance coverage. Often, important mental health conditions such as self-harm, substance use disorders, and chronic psychiatric conditions are either partially covered or denied coverage altogether. Addressing Stigma and Discrimination To make mental health a universal right, we must confront and combat the stigma and discrimination that persist. Here are some ways we can work together to achieve this: 1. Education and Awareness: Encourage open conversations about mental health to educate society about the realities of mental illness. Dispelling myths and misconceptions is essential in reducing stigma. 2. Supportive Work Environments: Employers can play a crucial role by fostering inclusive workplaces that prioritize mental well-being. Implement policies that provide mental health resources, support, and accommodation for employees. 3. Accessible Mental Health Services: Governments and organizations should work together to ensure affordable, accessible, and quality mental health services for everyone. This includes mental health insurance coverage for all conditions, without discrimination. 4. Empathy and Compassion: Show empathy and compassion to individuals struggling with mental health issues. By offering support and understanding, we can help reduce the isolation they often feel. A Call to Action Mental health is not a privilege for the few; it is a universal right for all. This Mental Health Day in 2023, let us unite in our commitment to ending discrimination against those with mental health conditions. By working together to eliminate stigma, let us create a world where mental well-being is cherished and protected.

As we commemorate World Alzheimer's Day in 2023, it is crucial to shed light on a growing concern that affects millions of people worldwide. As our population ages, the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia is on the rise. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of raising awareness, providing support, and promoting early detection and prevention of this debilitating condition. What Is Dementia? Dementia is a broad term that encompasses various cognitive impairments characterized by a decline in memory, thinking, communication, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60-80% of all cases. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia. Symptoms of Dementia: The symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, but some common signs to look out for include: Memory Loss: Forgetfulness, particularly of recent events or important dates. Difficulty with Language: Struggling to find words or understand and express thoughts. Impaired Judgment: Poor decision-making and difficulty planning or organizing. Disorientation: Getting lost in familiar places or losing track of time. Decreased Motor Skills: Difficulty with coordination and completing routine tasks. Changes in Behavior and Personality: Mood swings, agitation, and personality changes. Withdrawal: A tendency to isolate oneself from social activities and responsibilities. Early Identification of Dementia: Detecting dementia in its early stages can significantly improve the quality of life for affected individuals and their families. Here are some steps to help identify dementia early: Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule routine medical check-ups, especially if you or a loved one is over the age of 65, to monitor cognitive function. Recognize Warning Signs: Be aware of the common symptoms of dementia and seek medical advice if you notice any concerning changes. Memory Screening: Participate in memory screenings, which can be valuable in identifying cognitive decline. Family History: If dementia runs in your family, discuss this with your healthcare provider, as genetics can play a role in some cases. Cognitive Assessments: Doctors may conduct cognitive assessments to evaluate memory, problem-solving, and language skills. If any of the above symptoms are seen in your loved ones above the age of 60 don't forget to get a cognitive evaluationbesides a physical health check. Simple Tips for Dementia Prevention While there is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, several lifestyle choices may reduce the risk and promote brain health: Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain and may reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, while limiting sugar and saturated fats. Engage in Mental Stimulation: Keep your mind active through activities like puzzles, reading, learning new skills, or taking up a new hobby. Socialize: Stay socially connected to reduce feelings of isolation and depression, which can be risk factors for dementia. Manage Chronic Conditions: Control conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol to protect your brain health. Get Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to support cognitive function and memory consolidation. Conclusion: On World Alzheimer's Day 2023, let us join hands to raise awareness about dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease, and emphasize the importance of early detection and prevention. By understanding the symptoms, recognizing warning signs, and adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle, we can take significant steps toward reducing the impact of dementia on our aging population. Reach out to us for Dementia treatment in Pune. Together, we can strive for a world where individuals with dementia and their families receive the support and care they deserve.

Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated simulation of an environment that allows the user to experience a sense of presence and immersion within it. By using a headset or other similar device, the user can interact with a three-dimensional environment as if it were real. This technology has a wide range of applications, including gaming, education, training, and therapy. It relies on a combination of hardware and software, such as sensors, cameras, and rendering engines, to create a fully immersive experience. The goal of VR is to create a convincing and interactive world that can be experienced as if it were real. Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) is a therapeutic approach that involves exposing patients to anxiety provoking stimuli through virtual environments. Instead of directly facing the real-life source of anxiety, patients are gradually exposed to it through replicated scenarios in a controlled and safe setting. This allows patients to reap the benefits of confronting and managing their distress while avoiding potential harm associated with real-life exposure. VRET offers a creative and effective method of managing various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, OCD, and phobias. The anxiety situations that a person can be exposed to through VRET include 1) Fear of flying 2) Stage fear 3) Fear of heights 4) Fear of insects or animals 5) Fear of blood, needles, hospitals 6) Fear of small spaces, lifts 7) Fear of being in crowded places 8) Fear of contamination (OCD) How does it work? Researchers suggest that VRET offers patients an engaging and immersive experience within a virtual world, where mental health professionals have complete control over exposure to the simulated environment. This level of control allows for tailored manipulation of scenarios that are catering to the individual's needs during therapy sessions. VRET provides a secure and novel way to treat mental health conditions, where patients can benefit from a therapeutic experience without being exposed to experiential trauma. Effectiveness of VRET: In a study published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders, researchers used VRET to treat individuals with a fear of flying. Participants underwent six sessions of VRET, involved virtual flights of increasing duration and complexity. Results showed a significant decrease in anxiety levels, with 93% of participants reporting an improvement in their fear of flying. In another study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, researchers used VRET to treat individuals with social anxiety disorder. Participants underwent six sessions of VRET, which involved virtual social interactions of increasing complexity. Results showed a significant decrease in anxiety levels, with 87% of participants reporting an improvement in their social anxiety symptoms. Steps Involved In VRET: Assessment: The therapist conducts an assessment to understand the patient's anxiety triggers and severity of symptoms. Virtual environment creation: The therapist or a virtual reality programmer creates a virtual environment that simulates the patient's anxiety triggers. The virtual environment can be tailored to the patient's needs, such as specific situations or scenarios that trigger their anxiety. Exposure: The patient wears a virtual reality headset and enters the simulated environment. The therapist controls the environment and gradually exposes the patient to anxiety-provoking situations, starting with mild triggers and gradually increasing the difficulty level. Coping strategies: As the patient is exposed to anxiety-provoking situations, the therapist teaches them coping strategies to manage their anxiety. This can include relaxation techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness exercises. Reinforcement: The therapist reinforces positive progress and encourages the patient to continue practicing coping strategies in the virtual environment and real-life situations. Follow-up: The therapist conducts follow-up sessions to assess the patient's progress and make any necessary adjustments to the therapy plan. Final Thoughts: In summary, virtual reality therapy (VRET) has been demonstrated to be a novel, effective form of treatment for different types of anxiety disorders. The secure and monitored setting provided by VRET enables patients to face their fears and acquire coping mechanisms, resulting in notable symptom improvements. Reach out to us for treatment for anxiety in Pune. You can read more about VRET here.

Hi! Welcome to therapy! Now that you've decided to embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth, we wanted to take a moment to talk to you about how things work in therapy and what you can expect as we move forward together. First things first, therapy is a collaborative process. We're a team, and our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. We are here to listen, guide, and offer insights, but ultimately, you're in the driver's seat. You get to decide what you want to explore and work on, and we'll go at a pace that feels comfortable for you. How therapy works- Confidentiality- It is a cornerstone of therapy. It's important for you to know that whatever you share with us is strictly confidential. We are bound by professional ethics and legal obligations to protect your privacy. This means that we won't disclose any information about our sessions without your explicit consent, except in very rare circumstances where there's a risk of harm to yourself or others. Non-judgemental space- Therapy is a space where you can be your authentic self. It's okay to feel vulnerable, and it's okay to bring up any topic that's on your mind. There's no judgment here. We are here to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic ear. Self-awareness- Together, we'll explore your thoughts and emotions, identify patterns, and gain insights into your behaviors and beliefs. This self-awareness will be the foundation for your personal growth. Slow process- It's important to remember that therapy is not a quick fix. It's a process that takes time and effort. It's like planting a seed and watching it grow. There may be ups and downs along the way, but that's all part of the journey. Sometimes, things may feel challenging or uncomfortable as we delve into difficult emotions or confront deep-seated beliefs. But trust that this discomfort is often a sign that growth is happening. Techniques- While therapy is primarily focused on exploring the past and understanding how it shapes your present, it's also about building practical skills and strategies for coping with life's challenges. We will work with you to develop personalized tools and techniques that can help you manage stress, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships. The goal is to empower you with the tools you need to thrive outside of therapy. Expectations- It's important to have a clear idea of how you envision your therapy sessions and communicate your preferences to your therapist. This will enable them to tailor the therapy to your specific needs and work at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Lastly, it's crucial to maintain realistic expectations when starting therapy. It's a gradual and collaborative process that demands your commitment and active engagement. The results you achieve will be directly proportional to the effort and energy you invest in the therapeutic journey. We are truly excited for you to take this step and help you navigate the complexities of life, uncover your strengths, and help you live a more fulfilling and authentic life. Remember, therapy is a place for you to be yourself, to heal, and to grow. Reach out to us for Psychotherapist in Pune. We are here to support you every step of the way. - Team Manoshanti

The lockdown and pandemic have led to a rise in mental health problems in Maharashtra, particularly in cities like Pune and Mumbai. Mental health professionals have observed that OCD, anxiety, and depression are the most prevalent issues. While people are aware of anxiety and depression, OCD seems to be overlooked. Some studies suggest that strict sanitation and health protocols may have triggered OCD in some individuals. But what exactly is OCD? Psychiatrists and other mental health professionals that provide OCD treatment in Pune suggest that Obsessive-compulsive Disorder or OCD refers to a condition where a person experiences unwanted and involuntary thoughts and fears, which then result in repetitive behaviours. These behaviours can cause significant distress to the individual. Let’s try to understand OCD in detail: What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and its Symptoms? OCD is a mental health disorder that involves the presence of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted and distressing thoughts, urges, or images that persist and intrude when the individual is trying to focus on other things. These obsessions can have specific themes, such as fear of contamination, doubts, need for orderliness, aggressive or horrific thoughts, or unwanted thoughts related to sexuality or religion. Compulsions, on the other hand, are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that are performed in response to obsessions. These compulsions are meant to reduce anxiety or prevent something bad from happening. However, engaging in compulsions often brings no pleasure and only provides temporary relief from anxiety. People with OCD may create rules or rituals to follow to control their anxiety when experiencing obsessive thoughts, and these compulsions can be excessive and not realistically related to the problem they're intended to solve. Treatment Options- Exposure therapy- A type of cognitive-behavioral therapy known as exposure and response prevention (ERP), is the preferred psychotherapy for treating OCD. ERP involves gradually exposing individuals to their obsessions while asking them to refrain from performing compulsions that typically alleviate their anxiety and distress. The process is conducted at the individual's own pace, and therapists should not compel them to do anything against their will. As technology continues to evolve, new forms of treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have emerged, including the use of virtual reality (VR) in ERP therapy. This innovative approach provides individuals with a safe and realistic environment to confront their obsessions and compulsions while allowing therapists to control the intensity of exposure. VR-based ERP therapy has shown promising results in the treatment of OCD and is becoming an increasingly popular choice for therapists and patients alike. Medicines- In some cases, medication may be necessary to treat OCD if talk therapy is ineffective or the condition is severe. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant, are the primary medications prescribed. SSRIs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help improve OCD symptoms. However, it is essential to consult a mental health professional before starting or stopping any medication. rTMS- Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a cutting-edge treatment option for individuals suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) who don't respond to conventional treatments like psychotherapy and medication. rTMS aims to calm down the parts of the brain responsible for causing obsessions and compulsions in individuals with OCD. Final Thoughts- The surge in OCD cases during the pandemic has raised concerns about the availability and quality of treatment options in Pune and other parts of Maharashtra. It is important to carefully consider which healthcare professional can offer the best care and resources before deciding on a treatment plan for the same.

Major depressive disorder is a severe condition that can significantly affect a person's productivity, ability to function, and quality of life. Around 15% people face depression in their lifetime. 30% patients may not show full improvement with medication and psychotherapy. Hence there is a need for new treatment approaches to help those suffering from depression. Ketamine for depression has emerged as a promising treatment option over the last few years. The drug has been found to have antidepressant effects at low doses. What is Ketamine? Ketamine is an anaesthetic agent which has been used safely for general anaesthesia for many decades. Recently it has been demonstrated in scientific studies that at low doses it has a rapid and robust antidepressant effect. The drug works by targeting the glutamate system in the brain, which is involved in mood regulation. It is widely gaining acceptance in the USA, Europe, and India as a treatment for people with acute depression and feeling suicidal, chronic depression or treatment-resistant depression. How Does It Work? Ketamine is mostly administered through intravenous infusion and it is usually reserved for patients with severe and treatment-resistant depression. Your psychiatrist will evaluate and decide whether ketamine infusion is an option for you and if you are medically fit to receive the treatment. The IV infusion takes approximately 40 minutes to complete and is given in a hospital under medical supervision. The patient is monitored by a doctor throughout the infusion. After the infusion, a little sedation or dissociative experience may be experienced by some people which typically lasts for 15 to 20 minutes after the infusion. After an observation period of an hour, the person is sent home. The treatment involves at least six infusions of ketamine over a period of two weeks for it to be effective Effectiveness of Ketamine Therapy It has been found to have a rapid and persistent antidepressant effect after just one dose, suggesting it may play a role in neuroplasticity. Studies have demonstrated remission of depressive symptoms one week after the administration of the drug. A recent meta-analysis of various studies also found that ketamine has antidepressant efficacy starting from day one of treatment in patients with unipolar and bipolar depression. The neuropsychiatric effects of sub-anaesthetic doses of ketamine have been found to aid in managing suicidal ideation and reduce self-harm or suicide in addition to alleviating depressive symptoms. This suggests that ketamine may be a promising option for individuals with severe depression who are at risk of suicide. Final Thoughts The available evidence suggests that ketamine may be a beneficial treatment option for people with acute, chronic, or treatment-resistant depression. Few centers in India and Pune offer ketamine therapy for depression. It’s important to talk to a psychiatrist to take an informed decision on whether ketamine is a good treatment option for you. For more information on ketamine therapy read here.

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It involves placing a coil on the scalp and delivering rapid, repetitive magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain. rTMS has been shown to have potential therapeutic benefits for a range of conditions, including depression. It is also being investigated for its potential use in treating other neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). rTMS is a relatively new technique in India, and its availability and use may vary depending on factors such as the availability of trained professionals, equipment, and funding. Some hospitals and clinics in major cities such as Pune, Bengaluru, Hubli may offer rTMS as a treatment option for certain conditions, particularly depression, and anxiety. If you are interested in receiving rTMS in Pune or Bengaluru or Hubli it is recommended that you consult with a medical professional who can provide personalized advice and guidance on the availability and suitability of rTMS for your specific needs. Here are a few advantages of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to give you a better understanding of the process- Non-Invasive: As mentioned previously, rTMS is a non-invasive procedure that works outside the body, without requiring any surgery or electrode implantation. It involves sending harmless electromagnetic waves into the brain through the skull to stimulate specific mood-regulating cells that release neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. A small electromagnetic coil is placed on the scalp to create magnetic waves that stimulate the nerve cells. No extreme side effects: rTMS has no lasting or severe side effects. This treatment may be good option for people with for depression and anxiety disorders who experience some side effects with medication such as nausea, weight gain, sedation or sexual dysfunction. ECT is another treatment method for brain disorders, but it involves anaesthesia and can cause headaches, difficulty retaining information, long-term memory loss, confusion, and muscle aches. Some mild effects with rtms stimulation include mild headache, dizziness, or slight scalp discomfort but are usually brief and dissipate within minutes of the session ending. Effective Method: rTMS has proven to be a highly effective treatment for mental health disorders, with a success rate of up to 70%. The positive results of TMS continue long after the treatment is completed, with 90% of individuals experiencing the benefits 12 months later. rTMS has also been found to produce positive outcomes in patients who have not responded well to antidepressant medication. rTMS may also be a treatment option for people with depression or anxiety who do not prefer medication or those who have side effects with medication. Final Thoughts: In addition to the benefits discussed earlier, rTMS offers further advantages over other treatments. Unlike ECT, rTMS does not require the use of anaesthesia or sedatives, which are typically used during the ECT procedure. Moreover, rTMS do not cause any side effects which may occur with some on antidepressants. It is crucial to conduct thorough research and consult a medical professional before deciding to undergo rTMS to make an informed decision.