Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental health disorder characterized by symptoms such as delusions and disorganized thinking. People with schizophrenia may experience vivid auditory, visual or sensory hallucinations – perceiving things that do not exist in reality. These experiences can be distressing and significantly impact daily functioning. An innovative treatment approach called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation shows promise in managing these symptoms.

Why Do Hallucinations Occur in Schizophrenia?

Hallucinations in schizophrenia result from abnormal activity in specific brain regions responsible for processing sensory information and emotional responses. Though researchers have yet to pinpoint the cause, they believe it involves a complex interplay of neurotransmitters such as dopamine. An imbalance or hypersensitivity in these neurotransmitter systems can lead to the distorted perceptions and sensations you experience as hallucinations.

A recent randomized trial has shed light on the potential of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to alleviate auditory hallucinations in people with schizophrenia, especially when traditional treatments have not been fully effective.

How Does TMS Work?

TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It targets specific areas with magnetic pulses, which influence electrical activity. For schizophrenia, TMS can reduce the frequency and intensity of auditory hallucinations by modulating the activity of regions involved in auditory processing and perception.

The TMS procedure involves several steps.

• Session duration: TMS appointments usually take place over several weeks, with each session lasting from a few minutes to half an hour, depending on your treatment plans.
• Treatment experience: During TMS sessions, you will sit in a comfortable chair with a magnetic coil positioned near your head. You’ll wear hearing protection as the device produces clicking sounds. You may feel a tapping sensation on your scalp and notice involuntary thumb twitching, which indicates the magnetic pulses are effectively stimulating your brain.
• Post-session: One of the benefits of TMS is the lack of post-treatment downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately.

Schizophrenia Treatment at Serene Behavioral Health

Before beginning TMS, consult with a health provider to determine if it is a suitable treatment option. They will consider factors such as medical history, the presence of metallic implants and susceptibility to seizures to ensure safety and efficacy.

Given the complexity of the disorder, understanding and managing schizophrenia hallucinations requires a multifaceted approach. Advanced treatments like TMS offer renewed hope for people struggling with persistent symptoms that resist traditional therapies. Serene Behavioral Health integrates innovative treatments within our comprehensive care frameworks, providing clients with access to the latest and most effective interventions for schizophrenia.

Reach out to us today if you experience symptoms of schizophrenia, including hallucinations. Our team provides support, guidance and cutting-edge treatment options tailored to every client’s needs, helping them find a path to recovery and improved quality of life.