Magnet Treatment for Depression

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a treatment for depression for individuals who fail to benefit from traditional anti-depression drugs. TMS involves the modification of electrical activity in parts of the brain responsible for disorders such as depression and anxiety.

How It Works

According to New Scientist, TMS is delivered through magnetic coils situated above the patient's head. The application of the magnetic field generates low-level electric currents within the brain. The treatment works by repairing faulty neural networks. The catalyst for TMS's effectiveness is in the constant modification of the intensity of the magnetic fields. As a result inactive brain cells are stimulated, potentially contributing to rehabilitation.

Sessions

In order for TMS to be effective patients, must undergo 3.5 hours of exposure per week broken up into five separate sessions for four to six weeks. Such a high amount of exposure to magnetic waves may seem like a lot, but the procedure has received the green light from the FDA, and is deemed harmless. The side effects are said to be very mild, with only minor headaches and flexing of the facial muscles.

Appeal

Although the principle behind TMS is similar to that of electroshock therapy (ECT), TMS is much less invasive and produces fewer side effects. For example, with TMS patients are not required to receive an anesthetic before application. Although the sessions endure for over four weeks, this is still a much more expedient alternative to taking medication for several months.

Testimonial

In a December 2006 Newsweek article, Michael Miller imparts the story of Mark, a teenager with a history of suicidal tendencies, who claims to have benefited immensely from TMS. The patient had taken medication as well as undergone psychotherapy, but neither was as effective. Since undergoing TMS, Mark has been able to obtain a college education and is presently leading a highly productive life.

Last Resort

Miller emphasizes in his article that patients who have benefited from TMS are among those classified as "hard to treat." Most of them have undergone extensive traditional treatment with minimal results. At present, at least in the USA, TMS is not on the list of standard therapies as further research is needed to test the method's potential effectiveness in patients who respond positively to drugs and psychotherapy.