Magnetic Therapy for Depression: What You Need to Know About TMS

Living with depression can feel like carrying an invisible weight that never lets up. While therapy and medication provide relief for many, they don’t work for everyone. That’s where TMS therapy comes in—a breakthrough treatment offering a fresh path toward healing and hope.

TMS, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a non-invasive and drug-free approach designed to gently stimulate the parts of your brain that control mood. Think of it as a helping hand for your brain, encouraging it to function the way it’s meant to. For those who haven’t found success with traditional treatments, TMS can help lift the fog of depression and create space for brighter days.

Do you want to learn more about how magnetic treatment for depression works and why it’s changing lives? Let’s find what makes this therapy so creative and why it could be the solution for you or someone you love.

What is TMS, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapy that uses gentle magnetic pulses to connect with your brain’s natural electrical activity. Initially developed in 1985, TMS has become a widely used and trusted option for addressing various mental health and neurological conditions.

A magnetic coil is placed near your head, delivering pulses that stimulate nerve cells in specific brain areas. This procedure, known as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), is especially effective for conditions linked to brain activity imbalances.

TMS is FDA-approved to treat depression, particularly for people who haven’t found relief with antidepressants or talk therapy. Beyond depression, TMS shows promise for helping with:

• Anxiety
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Motor issues from Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke

With ongoing research, TMS continues to open doors for treating various conditions, offering hope for those seeking alternatives to traditional methods.

The Science Behind TMS: How Does It Work?

TMS Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a treatment designed to help reawaken parts of the brain that may be underactive in people with depression. It’s like giving those areas a gentle push to help them function as they should.

A device sends tiny magnetic pulses to specific parts of your brain that regulate mood. These pulses encourage brain cells to communicate better with each other, gradually improving how you feel.

Different Types of TMS

TMS therapy comes in various forms to meet specific needs. The differences depend on the strength of the magnet, how the magnetic pulses are delivered, and the type of equipment used. Here’s a breakdown of the main variations:

Magnetic Strength

The power of a TMS magnet is measured in tesla (T), the same unit used for MRI scanners. Most TMS magnets generate a field between 1.5T and 2T, about as strong as an MRI. However, unlike MRI machines, TMS focuses its magnetic field on a much smaller area because of the magnet’s compact size.

Pulse Frequency

TMS works by sending bursts of magnetic energy in pulses. The speed of these pulses is known as frequency, measured in hertz (Hz):

• Low-frequency TMS: 1 Hz (1 pulse per second)
• High-frequency TMS: 5–10 Hz (5–10 pulses per second)

When pulses are repeated in a steady pattern, repetitive TMS (rTMS) is one of the most common techniques.

Pulse Patterns

Some TMS treatments use unique pulse patterns to enhance efficiency. For example, Theta-Burst Stimulation (TBS) delivers bursts of magnetic energy in groups of three, firing 15 pulses in a second. TBS significantly speeds up treatment, completing sessions five to six times faster than standard methods.

Magnetic Coil Types and Targets

Different magnetic coils allow TMS to target specific areas of the brain:

• Standard rTMS uses a figure-8-shaped coil to focus on surface-level brain regions.
• Deep TMS (dTMS) uses an H-shaped helmet coil to reach deeper brain structures, making it particularly effective for conditions like OCD.

Each type of TMS proposes unique advantages, allowing providers to customize treatments for disorders such as depression, OCD, and more. This versatility makes TMS a powerful tool in modern mental health care.

Who Should Avoid TMS Therapy?

Magnetic treatment for depression is generally considered safe, but it’s not suitable for everyone. If you have metal in your head, you may need to avoid TMS, as the magnetic fields could cause the metal to move or heat up, potentially leading to severe injuries.

You should avoid TMS if you have:

• Deep brain stimulators
• Electrodes implanted in your brain
• Brain or neck stents
• Aneurysm clips or coils
• Shrapnel or bullet fragments
• Facial tattoos with metallic ink
• Metal plates
• Cochlear implants
• Permanent piercings

Braces or dental fillings are fine and won’t interfere with TMS treatment.

Other Considerations

TMS may not be recommended if you:

• Have a history of epilepsy or seizures.
• Take stimulant medications
• A medical condition that boosts the risk of seizures.
• If you need clarification on whether TMS is right for you, your doctor can help assess your situation and recommend the best options for your care.

What to Expect During TMS Treatment

TMS therapy is a straightforward outpatient procedure, typically done at a medical clinic. You won’t need to stay overnight if it’s performed in a hospital. Here’s a simple breakdown of what happens during a session:

Before Your Session

You must remove any items sensitive to magnets, like jewelry or other metal accessories.

During the Procedure

• Getting Ready: You’ll sit in a comfortable chair, and your technician will provide earplugs to reduce the clicking sound of the magnetic pulses. There’s no need for general anesthesia—you’ll be awake the entire time.
• Initial Setup: For your first session, the technician will measure your head to find the correct placement for the magnetic coil. They’ll also adjust the machine settings to tailor the treatment specifically to you.
• Starting the Treatment: The magnetic coil is placed above the front part of your brain, and the session begins. You’ll hear a clicking sound from the machine and may feel a tapping or knocking sensation under the coil.

Session Length and Recovery

The treatment typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Once it’s done, you can drive home and go about your day as usual.

Treatment Schedule

To see results, you’ll need to undergo magnetic treatment for depression five days a week for about four to six weeks. The exact duration depends on how you respond to the treatment and your specific condition.

TMS therapy is designed to fit seamlessly into your routine while helping you work toward improved mental health.

Benefits of TMS Therapy for Depression

TMS therapy offers several advantages, making it a valuable option for individuals struggling with mental health challenges like depression, OCD, and anxiety. Here’s why TMS is worth considering:

• Non-Invasive: TMS doesn’t require surgery or anesthesia. Once your session ends, you can go about your day as usual.
• Safe: The risk of severe side effects, like seizures, is extremely low. Other side effects, such as mild discomfort, usually disappear quickly.
• Effective: TMS can make a significant difference, especially for people who haven’t found relief with traditional treatments.
• Life-Saving Potential: For individuals with severe depression, TMS can help alleviate symptoms or even lead to remission, potentially preventing outcomes like suicide.
• Works Alongside Other Treatments: TMS is often used alongside medications and therapy, complementing these approaches for better results.

Magnetic Treatment For Depression

TMS is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), especially in cases of treatment-resistant depression, where medications and therapy haven’t worked.

• How It Works: Depression is linked to reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, a brain area associated with symptoms like low energy and changes in appetite. TMS stimulates nerve cells in this region, helping to boost brain activity and reduce symptoms of depression.

TMS Therapy for OCD

TMS can also help reduce symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), particularly for those who haven’t responded to traditional treatments.

• How It Works: People with OCD often have overactivity between the prefrontal cortex and striatum, contributing to severe symptoms. TMS targets these areas to reduce hyperactivity, easing OCD symptoms.

TMS Therapy for Anxiety

TMS may also benefit those with anxiety disorders, either on its own or as part of treating related conditions like depression or OCD.

• How It Works: In people with anxiety, the prefrontal cortex often shows increased nerve activity. TMS helps regulate this activity, which can alleviate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and other anxiety-related conditions.

Potential Side Effects of TMS Therapy

The side effects of TMS are typically mild to moderate and tend to improve shortly after each session, with any discomfort generally decreasing over time as you continue treatment. Serious side effects are rare. The side effects include:

• Mild headaches (the most common)
• Lightheadedness
• Scalp or neck pain
• Tingling sensations
• Facial twitching
• Sleepiness
• Temporary changes in cognition during treatment

Most symptoms, like headaches and lightheadedness, usually fade after a few sessions.

While serious side effects are very uncommon, they may include:

• Seizures
• Mania, especially in people with bipolar disorder
• Hearing loss if ear protection is not used correctly during treatment
• TMS is considered safe, and the side effects are generally short-lived and manageable.

When is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Used?

TMS is usually considered after other treatments, like antidepressants and psychotherapy, have been tried. However, you might be a good candidate for TMS if you:

• Have you tried one or more antidepressants without seeing any results
• Have experienced unwanted side effects from antidepressants
• Are a child or a teenager

For younger individuals, TMS can be a great option, as they tend to experience more side effects from antidepressants compared to adults.

Is TMS the Right Treatment for You?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers a promising alternative for those struggling with depression, primarily when traditional treatments like antidepressants and therapy haven’t worked. It’s a safe, non-invasive procedure that has shown positive results for many individuals. If you’ve been struggling with depression and haven’t found relief from other treatments, TMS might be worth considering.

If you’re wondering whether TMS is the right choice, the best next step is to consult a healthcare provider-Insight Choices. We can assess your specific situation and help determine if TMS could be a suitable option for your treatment plan.

If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation to find TMS further, contact Insight Choices today to take the next step toward brighter days.

FAQs

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and how does it help treat depression?

TMS is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. It helps improve brain activity, especially in areas that may be underactive in people with depression.

Are there any side effects associated with TMS transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy, and how severe are they?

Most side effects, such as headaches, lightheadedness, or scalp discomfort, are mild and temporary. Serious side effects, like seizures, are infrequent. Most people experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

How long does it take to feel the benefits of TMS therapy for depression?

While everyone responds differently, many people notice improvements after a few weeks of treatment. Benefits often become more apparent after completing the recommended treatment sessions, typically lasting 4 to 6 weeks. To learn more about the therapy, book a consultation with Insight Choices.

Who is an ideal candidate for TMS therapy, and are there any conditions that prevent someone from using it?

TMS is often recommended for those with treatment-resistant depression—people who haven’t had success with antidepressants or therapy. It may not be suitable for individuals with metal implants in their head or a history of seizures.

Is TMS therapy effective for treating conditions other than depression, such as OCD or anxiety?

Yes, TMS has shown promise in treating conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety. It’s most commonly used for depression but is being explored as a treatment for other mental health conditions as well.