Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulatory treatment that uses constant, low electrical current to modulate brain activity. Electrodes are placed on your scalp to deliver gentle current to targeted areas in the brain, which either inhibit or stimulate brain activity. Unlike other forms of intense brain stimulation techniques, tDCS uses low current that causes minimal discomfort. People who have undergone tDCS therapy generally describe the feeling as mild tingling.
Understanding the Science Behind tDCS : Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) uses low-intensity electrical currents to stimulate specific regions of your brain. By modulating the activity in targeted areas, tDCS treatment can help influence neural pathways linked to mood, cognition, and behaviour. This non-invasive technique is often used as a complementary approach in mental health treatments, aiming to improve symptoms for conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, and more by gently adjusting the activity patterns of your brain.
Procedure and What to Expect : During tDCS therapy, you sit comfortably in a chair as a psychiatrist or a technician carefully positions electrodes on specific areas of the scalp. These electrodes deliver a low, controlled electrical current, targeting particular brain regions to modulate neural activity.
Non-Invasive and Drug-Free : tDCS brain stimulation is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require medications, making it an attractive alternative if you are looking for drug-free treatment options for mental health and cognitive disorders. It stimulates your brain activity without surgery or injections.
Cognitive Enhancement Potential : Research shows that tDCS can enhance cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and learning, making it a promising tool for people seeking improvements in mental clarity, attention, and mental processing speeds.
Safe and Well-Tolerated : tDCS is considered safe and well-tolerated for most people, with minimal risk of adverse effects. Sessions are generally painless with a slight tingling feeling, and side effects are rare, making it an ideal option for long-term use.
Depression and Mood Disorders : tDCS can offer symptom relief for Depression and other mood disorders by targeting and stimulating specific areas of the brain associated with emotional regulation, helping improve mood stability and reduce symptoms.
Enhancing Cognitive Function : In Cognitive Therapy, tDCS is used to boost cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, offering potential benefits for people experiencing cognitive decline or those seeking improvement in their mental performance.
Pain Management : tDCS can also assist in managing chronic pain by altering pathways of pain perception in the brain, providing you relief if you are dealing with long-term pain conditions.
Stroke Rehabilitation : For people dealing with stroke, tDCS may aid in rehabilitating motor functions by enhancing neuroplasticity and helping to regain mobility and motor control over time.
Anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) : By targeting areas of your brain involved in anxiety response, tDCS can help alleviate symptoms of Anxiety and PTSD, offering a potential non-invasive approach to support traditional therapies.
Can You Use tDCS at Home?
Yes, tDCS devices for home use are available. However, you must consult a healthcare provider for guidance to ensure proper application and to avoid misuse. Home use can offer convenience and flexibility in your treatment.
Safety Guidelines for Home tDCS Use
When using tDCS, you need to follow safety protocols, such as ensuring device calibration, using it for recommended durations, and avoiding misuse to prevent possible side effects. Always consult your doctor before starting home treatment.
When choosing a tDCS provider, look for a licensed healthcare professional with experience in neurostimulation therapies. Ensure they offer you a personalised treatment plan and adhere to safety standards, with proper equipment and monitoring protocols.
At BetterPlace, our specialists have years of experience in conducting neuromodulatory treatments, including tDCS treatment and are guided by a senior team with over 40+ years of experience who ensure quality treatment.
Cost can vary depending on your location, provider, and treatment frequency. It’s important for you to inquire about session prices, insurance coverage, and whether home-use devices are available for purchase or rental.
Consultant Psychiatrist
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Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
Therapy Mode Online, In-person
Languages Hindi, English
Psychiatrists at BetterPlace, Delhi, are highly trained mental health professionals who have successfully treated over 50,000 people with a range of mental health conditions including:
We tailor your tDCS treatment to your unique needs, adjusting current intensity and target areas to maximise effectiveness for your specific condition.
Our tDCS treatments are non-invasive, painless, and conducted under expert supervision to ensure a safe and comfortable experience every time.
We use state-of-the-art tDCS equipment, ensuring precise targeting of brain regions to achieve the best possible outcomes for your mental health.
Your tDCS sessions are part of a holistic care plan, working alongside therapy and lifestyle guidance to deliver comprehensive, long-lasting results.
When visiting BetterPlace, you can expect a welcoming environment where there is 0% judgment.
Meet with a psychologist and a psychiatrist
Get an accurate understanding of your mental health
Get a personalised treatment plan
Get ongoing care with regular follow-ups
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Studies show that tDCS can significantly reduce symptoms of Depression by stimulating areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It’s an effective addition to other therapies for Depression.
Yes, tDCS has shown promising results in enhancing cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and executive function, making it a valuable tool in cognitive rehabilitation and mental performance.
tDCS devices are FDA-approved for specific conditions, including Depression and certain cognitive impairments. However, usage should always be guided by a medical professional.
Yes, tDCS is a drug-free, non-invasive treatment option, relying on electrical stimulation to stimulate brain activity rather than pharmaceutical intervention.
During a tDCS session, electrodes are placed on your scalp, delivering a low electrical current. It’s painless and typically lasts between 20-30 minutes. You may feel a slight tingling sensation during the session.
Side effects of tDCS treatment are rare but may include mild skin irritation or tingling at the electrode site. These effects usually subside shortly after the session. tDCS is generally considered safe with minimal risk.