For people struggling with mental health challenges like depression, traditional treatments like medication or talk therapy may not always provide enough relief. In these cases, therapies like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may be more beneficial. For those wondering how TMS works, this non-invasive therapy can help to restore chemical imbalances in the brain and improve mental health without the use of medication.
TMS works by using magnetic fields to gently stimulate certain areas of the brain. The treatment focuses on regions associated with mood regulation, like the prefrontal cortex. By placing a magnetic coil on the scalp, small magnetic pulses are sent into the brain, generating electrical currents that activate brain cells. This helps to improve communication between neurons which is often disrupted in people dealing with conditions like depression.
One of the ways TMS helps is by boosting the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters play a major role in how we feel and process emotions. Over time, this treatment can normalize brain activity and offer relief to those whose mental health has been affected by imbalances in these chemicals. TMS is also non-invasive, meaning it doesn’t require any sedation or anesthesia. This allows patients to return to their regular activities right after a session.
While the TMS procedure is a simple process that doesn’t require any anesthetics or downtime, there is a process that must be followed to ensure effectiveness and safety. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect during a session:
There are six types of TMS treatments available. While all forms of TMS use magnetic pulses to stimulate brain activity, they vary in the intensity and depth of the stimulation. The six types of TMS include:
TMS has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat mental health and neurological conditions. Currently, TMS is FDA-approved for the treatment of four conditions: depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), migraines, and smoking cessation.
TMS is used for people suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD). This treatment uses electromagnetic pulses to stimulate neurons in the prefrontal cortex. Over the course of four to six weeks of daily sessions, TMS rewires abnormal brain activity, which can help alleviate depressive symptoms.
Recent research from Stanford Medicine has shown that TMS may work by reversing abnormal brain signals. This opens up new possibilities for using brain activity patterns as potential biomarkers for diagnosing depression.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder affects over 2% of the global population. For those with treatment-resistant OCD, TMS and deep TMS have been shown to be effective treatment options. Deep TMS targets deeper parts of the brain, including the anterior cingulate cortex and medial prefrontal cortex. These parts of the brain are thought to contribute to OCD symptoms.
In a multicenter clinical study, deep TMS was shown to reduce OCD severity by more than 30% in over a third of participants. This provides hope for people who have not found success with other OCD treatments.
Migraines can be debilitating for those who suffer from them regularly, but TMS is showing promise as a preventive and acute treatment option. In one study, patients using a single-pulse TMS device were able to reduce their headache days significantly, especially when used preventively.
Repetitive TMS has also been explored as a preventive treatment for migraines by altering brain excitability and neurotransmitter activity. With newly developed portable devices for home use, patients can now access this treatment more conveniently. This can help reduce the impact migraines have on their everyday lives.
Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in the U.S., but TMS can potentially help people quit. The FDA approved the H4 coil specifically for smoking cessation. This coil targets both sides of the brain simultaneously to reduce cravings and increase the ability to resist smoking.
In one study, participants under going TMS therapy for smoking cessation saw higher quit rates and reduced cigarette consumption after 13 sessions over three weeks. By stimulating areas of the brain responsible for cravings, TMS helps reduce the urge to smoke.
TMS stands out when compared to other treatment options for mental health conditions due to it’s ability to directly stimulate brain activity. Unlike medications or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS is a non-invasive and drug-free alternative.
Medications are often the first line of treatment for depression. Antidepressants work by balancing serotonin and dopamine levels. However, for those with treatment-resistant depression medications may not always be effective, and side effects can vary from person to person. Here’s a closer look at how TMS compares to medications:
On the other hand, TMS changes brain activity without introducing chemical into the system. This can help reduce the risk of adverse reactions. Additionally, TMS can be more cost effective than medications.
While both TMS and electroconvulsive therapy are designed to treat severe depression, the two therapies are quite different. ECT is typically used for patients with very severe depression or when there is an immediate risk of suicide, making it a last-resort option. Here’s a breakdown of how the two therapies compare:
After a TMS session, patients can immediately resume their daily activities, while ECT patients often need days or even weeks to recover. Although ECT has been shown to be highly effective, TMS offers a less intensive alternative for those who are looking for treatment without the need for hospitalization or recovery time.
With minimal side effects and no need for sedation, TMS is a safe option for people looking for relief from depression, OCD, migraines, and more. Whether you’re considering it as a standalone treatment or as an additional part of your treatment plan, understanding how TMS works and its benefits can help you make the best decision for your health. For questions or more information on TMS, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation – Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews
Quadripulse stimulation (QPS) – Experimental Brain Research
Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression – Cureus
Researchers treat depression by reversing brain signals traveling the wrong way – Stanford Medicine
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – National Institute of Mental Health
Achieving OCD Relief: Consideration of TMS Earlier in the Treatment Continuum – Psychiatric Times
Transcranial Magnetic Simulation in the Treatment of Migraine – Neurotherapeutics
What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)? – American Psychiatric Association
Determining if TMS therapy suits your mental health journey should involve consultation with a qualified professional. At Cura Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed treatment decisions.
Don’t let a mental health condition hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with Cura Behavioral Health today. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
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Dr. Kevin Simonson, an esteemed Medical Director at Cura Behavioral Health, brings over 15 years of experience in psychiatry. A graduate from a top medical school, he specializes in the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety, employing a patient-centered approach. His dedication to evidence-based care and his commitment to advancing mental health practices have made him a respected figure in the field. Dr. Simonson’s leadership ensures the highest standard of care for the community at Cura Behavioral Health.
