Speaking as a mother who watched her daughter endure years of anxiety and depression, I know the heartache of seeking solutions without finding relief. Over her 19 years, she tried 15 to 16 different medications or cocktails of medications, each offering little help or causing side effects worse than the conditions themselves. When I saw a billboard from the University of San Diego about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), I immediately began researching it—and I’m so grateful I did. For my daughter, TMS has been life-changing.
TMS is a groundbreaking, non-invasive treatment for depression that has shown promising results, especially for those who haven't responded to traditional therapies. It uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, offering hope to individuals like my daughter. Learn more about TMS at UC San Diego Health.
During a TMS session, a magnetic coil is placed against the scalp near the forehead, delivering pulses that target nerve cells in the prefrontal cortex, the brain region associated with mood control. Unlike more invasive procedures, TMS requires no anesthesia, and patients can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
Research highlights TMS as an effective option for reducing depressive symptoms, particularly for those unresponsive to medications or therapy. It is generally well-tolerated, with mild headaches being the most common side effect. As studies progress, TMS is proving to be a game-changer in mental health care, offering a new path forward for individuals seeking relief. For more details, visit the Mayo Clinic’s TMS overview.
*TMS may not work for everyone. Consult with your doctors and healthcare team to see if it is an option for you.
