TMS isn’t just a treatment; it’s a breakthrough for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression, offering hope and the chance to reclaim a life of joy and purpose.
As the demand for effective depression treatments rises, a growing number of patients are discovering the benefits of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Featured in a recent Forbes article, TMS is transforming the way we approach mental health care, offering a safe, non-invasive option for individuals struggling with depression, especially those who haven’t found relief with traditional methods.
One of our past TMS patients at Sonder shared her experience in the Forbes article, highlighting how TMS helped her overcome treatment-resistant depression and improve her quality of life. Her success story is just one example of how TMS is making a profound difference in the lives of many.
Read on for an overview of TMS treatment for depression and whether it could be right for you:
What is TMS?
TMS is a FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate regions of the brain linked to mood regulation. It is often used when patients have not found relief from conventional treatments like medication or therapy.
Unlike Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), which requires anesthesia, TMS is delivered through outpatient sessions that require no downtime. Patients are awake and alert during the procedure, which typically lasts around 20 minutes, and can immediately resume their daily activities, such as going back to work or school.
Why TMS works
TMS works by using focused magnetic fields to target and stimulate specific brain regions responsible for regulating mood. This method has shown a significantly higher success rate in treating depression than many traditional antidepressant options, particularly for those with treatment-resistant depression.
In a 2014 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, it was found that TMS patients were more than three times as likely to respond to treatment compared to those receiving a placebo. Studies like these have solidified TMS as a powerful, scientifically-backed treatment option for depression.
Accessibility and insurance coverage
In recent years, TMS has become more accessible as insurance coverage has expanded. Major insurance providers, including Medicare and Tricare, now offer coverage for TMS, making it more affordable for those in need of this innovative treatment.
The shift in coverage reflects the growing recognition of TMS as a mainstream treatment for depression, rather than a niche or experimental therapy.
The future of TMS
The potential for TMS to evolve continues to grow. Experts are working on refining the treatment by personalizing it even further, improving targeting accuracy, and enhancing the precision of stimulation. Advances like these promise to make TMS even more effective and tailored to the needs of each individual patient.
Is TMS right for you?
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression and has not found relief through traditional treatments, TMS might be a viable option. The first step is to consult with a healthcare provider who can help determine whether TMS is appropriate for your situation.
The benefits of TMS go beyond simply treating symptoms—they can help individuals reclaim their lives and rediscover joy. As we continue to see more success stories from patients at Sonder TMS, we are excited to witness the growing impact of this transformative treatment.
For more information on how TMS can help you or someone you care about, just fill out the form on this page, and Ingrid, our TMS Coordinator, will contact you within one business day. You can also reach us via email at tms@sonderwellness.com or call (952) 999-6097 (ext. 103).
Interested in learning more about TMS treatment for depression?