Struggling with the waiting period before TMS starts
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Sign in to commentI remember this exact feeling. The gap between "there might be hope" and actually starting treatment was so hard. What helped me: I made a simple daily checklist — shower, walk for 10 minutes, eat one real meal. Just small things to get through each day until it started. You've already done the hardest part by getting approved.
I had a 3-week wait and used the time to prepare. I read about other people's experiences (this forum would have been great), figured out my schedule for daily appointments, and told my employer what was coming. The waiting is awful but you CAN get through it.
Mike, what you're feeling is completely valid. The frustration of having to wait when you're suffering is real. A few suggestions: - Call the clinic and ask to be put on a cancellation list — sometimes spots open up earlier - Continue any current medications as prescribed - Try to maintain basic routines even when it's hard - If you're in crisis at any point, please reach out to 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) You're doing the right thing by reaching out to this community.
Sending you strength, Mike. I was in the same spot 4 months ago. Now I'm on session 24 and feeling better than I have in years. The wait is temporary.
Thank you all. I called the clinic and got on the cancellation list like Dr. Martinez suggested. They already moved me up by a week! Also, Rachel's checklist idea is exactly what I needed. One day at a time.