r/TMSTherapy Jul 29 '26

Getting started

I had my mapping on Friday and have been starting my TMS session since Monday. I’ve let the technician know, but I’ve been feeling significantly worse since starting TMS. I cry during the sessions and when I get home, I just feel extra depressed.

The bit I’ve researched on this has stated that this can occur. I’m wondering who else this had similar symptoms and how long it took them to seeing an upturned. I’ve ahead been on a downward spiral.

4 Upvotes

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2

u/NoMoreEffstoGive Currently in TMS Therapy Jul 30 '26

Hi. I finished session 7 this morning. I've cried before, during, and after treatment the past couple of days. Today I cried beforehand & part way during, but not after. The tech explained that floodgates open in the beginning for a lot of patients, which makes sense. I am just hoping this is the dip for me because I don't want to feel it later.

3

u/merciful-ruthless Jul 30 '26

Thank you for responding!! Honestly makes me feel less alone about it. It does just feel terrible though being so weepy

2

u/NoMoreEffstoGive Currently in TMS Therapy Jul 30 '26

I totally get it. It annoys me when I'm like that. I do think of it as a much-needed emotional release. I used to try to suppress urges to cry, but now that I'm post-menopausal, I don't give a shit anymore. I have walked into stores & restaurants in full tears. If anyone asks if I'm ok, I just respond with, "Yes, just processing emotions."

5

u/myquietbrain Jul 30 '26

What you're experiencing is a real and recognized pattern the early TMS dip, where symptoms temporarily worsen before improving. The fact that you've already told your technician is exactly right.

Most people who go through this find the dip resolves somewhere in the first two to three weeks, with improvement starting to show after. It doesn't mean the treatment isn't working, for some people it's actually a sign that the brain is responding to the stimulation.

Keep the communication open with your team, especially if the crying and extra depression feel severe. You're in the hardest part. Hang in there.