Transcranial magnetic stimulation TMS: Hope for stubborn depression

Some need to come back for a follow-up treatment after a few months, or after a year or two. “Just like you have to take an antidepressant pill every day, you have to expose the brain to treatment every day to increase the neuroplasticity,” Dr. Leuchter said. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation increases neuroplasticity, or the ability to form new pathways in the brain, allowing the psychiatric care patient to get out of a depressive rut.

What happens during a TMS session?

In some people who get frequent headaches or migraines, TMS triggers headaches, so treatments might need to be stopped. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive treatment that involves using a magnetic coil to influence your brain’s natural electrical activity. This treatment, first developed in 1985, now sees widespread use for a variety of mental health and brain-related conditions.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) – Treatment for Depression

It has had success helping people who don’t respond to antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Repetitive TMS may be used when standard treatments such as medicines, and talk therapy, known as psychotherapy, don’t work. You should see your healthcare provider as recommended for your visits. A key factor in whether TMS works is attending all the sessions as recommended. You should also contact your healthcare provider if you notice any side effects that are moderate or severe or that linger or don’t get better even a few after a session.