Anxiety disorders affect a significant portion of the population, presenting with symptoms that can interfere with daily functioning. Individuals seeking management strategies have various options available beyond the typical oral medication or therapy. Here is more information on two neurotherapeutic approaches used in the treatment of anxiety:
Exploring MeRT
Magnetic Resonance Therapy, or MeRT, is a personalized anxiety treatment that uses a combination of technologies to address brainwave activity. This process begins with a quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) to map the brain’s electrical patterns. This qEEG data allows clinicians to identify specific areas of the brain that exhibit irregular activity, which may correlate with symptoms of anxiety.
The primary goal of MeRT is to modulate these brainwaves toward a more regulated state. Based on the initial brain mapping, a tailored treatment protocol is developed. This protocol guides the application of magnetic fields to targeted regions of the brain. This therapy involves the patient sitting in a comfortable chair while a specialized coil is positioned over their head.
The treatment sessions are typically conducted daily over several weeks. Throughout the treatment period, clinicians perform follow-up qEEGs to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the protocol. This iterative process allows for a highly individualized approach designed to meet the specific neurological needs of each patient.
Utilizing rTMS
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is another non-invasive brain stimulation technique used for anxiety and other neurological conditions. Unlike the highly personalized approach of MeRT, rTMS generally follows standardized protocols approved for specific conditions. This treatment uses an electromagnetic coil placed against the scalp near the forehead.
For anxiety, rTMS typically focuses on areas of the brain involved in mood and fear regulation, such as the prefrontal cortex. These magnetic pulses induce small electrical currents that can depolarize or hyperpolarize neurons, leading to changes in brain activity. This “repetitive” aspect of rTMS refers to the delivery of these pulses in rapid succession.
The frequency and pattern of the pulses can either excite or inhibit neural activity, depending on the treatment goals. For instance, high-frequency stimulation is generally excitatory, while low-frequency stimulation is inhibitory. A typical course of rTMS involves sessions that last approximately 20 to 40 minutes and occur daily, five times a week, for a duration of four to six weeks. Patients are awake and alert during the procedure and can resume normal activities immediately after.
Understanding the Differences
While both MeRT and rTMS utilize magnetic fields to influence brain activity, their methodologies differ. A defining feature of MeRT is its high degree of personalization. By starting with a qEEG brain map, MeRT tailors the frequency and location of magnetic stimulation directly to an individual’s unique brainwave patterns. This means the treatment protocol is specific to each patient.
In contrast, rTMS often uses established, one-size-fits-all protocols based on the patient’s diagnosis rather than their individual brain activity. The stimulation targets are predetermined locations associated with a particular condition. Both treatments are non-invasive and do not require sedation, allowing individuals to continue with their daily routines. The selection between these two approaches depends on the specific clinical presentation and the treatment philosophy of the providing clinician.
Get Help With Anxiety
MeRT and rTMS represent advanced, non-invasive approaches for managing anxiety by directly addressing brain function. MeRT offers a personalized protocol based on an individual’s brain map, while rTMS applies standardized protocols to modulate neural activity in specific brain regions. Understanding the distinct characteristics of these treatments can help individuals make informed decisions about their care in consultation with a healthcare provider. Exploring these options can be a step toward finding an effective management strategy for anxiety symptoms.