How TMS Can Alleviate Depression Symptoms When Antidepressants Have Failed

If antidepressants haven't brought relief from depressive symptoms, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may. It’s a proven, drug-free alternative that’s helped thousands of patients reclaim their lives. Read on to learn how this non-invasive brain sti

When multiple prescriptions fail to lift the heavy weight of depression, a condition known as treatment-resistant depression, it's easy to feel hopeless. However, medication isn't the only medical tool available to treat persistent mood disorders.

FDA-approved Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers a non-invasive, evidence-based alternative for individuals who haven't responded to standard therapies.

At State of Mind Wellness Center in Westlake, CA, and serving patients throughout the neighboring community of Calabasas, Board Certified Psychiatrist Dr. Priya Parmar uses advanced medical technology, including TMS, to help patients find lasting relief from treatment-resistant depression.

Here’s what she wants you to know about this ground-breaking treatment.

How TMS works differently from antidepressants

TMS works differently from oral medications. Instead of traveling through the bloodstream and affecting your entire system, TMS directly targets the specific brain regions that regulate mood. During a session, an electromagnetic coil is placed gently against your scalp. It delivers focused magnetic pulses that stimulate underactive nerve cells in brain regions responsible for emotion and motivation. Over time, these targeted pulses encourage the brain to form new neural connections, restoring healthy patterns of activity.

How effective is TMS?

Research shows that after TMS therapy, 50% to 70% reported a drop of 50% or greater in their depressive symptoms.

About 30% to 40% report a complete or near-complete absence of symptoms.

Because TMS is non-invasive and non-sedating, sessions don't disrupt your daily schedule.

How many TMS sessions will I need?

Treatments run five days a week for about four to six weeks. Each daily session lasts about 20 minutes. You remain fully awake, sitting comfortably in a treatment chair.

You can safely drive yourself home or back to work immediately after your session.

Who is a candidate for TMS therapy?

If you've tried two or more antidepressant medications without adequate symptom relief or couldn't tolerate their side effects, you might be an ideal candidate for TMS.

During your consultation, Dr. Pamar evaluates your full psychiatric and medical history.

What to expect during your care

Dr. Parmar recognizes that starting a new clinical treatment can be intimidating. That’s why she prioritizes your comfort at every step.

During your initial mapping session, Dr. Parmar determines the exact placement and strength of the magnetic pulses needed for your unique brain anatomy. You'll hear a clicking sound and feel a light tapping sensation on your scalp while the magnetic coil operates.

Side effects are typically mild and localized, with brief scalp discomfort or mild headaches being the most common occurrences during the first week of sessions.

If you’re struggling with treatment-resistant depression, contact Dr. Parmar at State of Mind Wellness Center to book a consultation.