A woman sits on a windowsill with her head resting on her arms, looking pensive. She wears a white sweater, jeans, and socks. Sunlight filters through the window, casting a gentle glow over the room. Potted plants and a mug sit nearby.

NeuroStar TMS: A Game-Changer for Treating Depression

Living with depression can feel like a constant uphill battle, especially when traditional treatments like therapy and medication don’t seem to work. But there’s hope. NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment that’s helping people with depression find relief—even when nothing else has worked.

What is NeuroStar TMS?

NeuroStar TMS is a non-invasive therapy that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It’s designed for people with major depressive disorder (MDD) who haven’t found success with other treatments.

Unlike medication, which affects the entire body, TMS focuses directly on the brain regions that control mood, offering targeted relief with minimal side effects. It’s FDA-approved, safe, and has helped thousands of people reclaim their lives.

How Does TMS Work?

The process is simple and comfortable:

  1. Precise Targeting: A magnetic coil is placed gently on your head, delivering pulses to the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain often underactive in depression.
  2. Boosting Brain Activity: These pulses stimulate neural activity, improving communication between brain cells and helping lift depressive symptoms.
  3. Quick, Non-Invasive Sessions: Each session lasts about 20-40 minutes. You’re awake the entire time, and there’s no need for anesthesia or recovery time.

Most people complete a course of treatment over 4-6 weeks, with five sessions per week. It’s a short-term commitment with the potential for long-term results.

Is TMS Right for You?

NeuroStar TMS is an excellent option for people who:

  • Haven’t found relief with antidepressants or therapy.
  • Want a treatment with minimal side effects.
  • Are looking for a non-invasive, medication-free approach to managing depression.

It’s not recommended for individuals with certain types of metal implants or medical devices near the head, so be sure to discuss your medical history with your provider.

Why Choose NeuroStar TMS?

Here’s what sets NeuroStar TMS apart:

  1. Proven Results: Studies show that 58% of patients experience significant improvement, and about one-third achieve full remission.
  2. Minimal Side Effects: Unlike medications, TMS has very few side effects—mostly mild scalp discomfort during treatment, which usually goes away quickly.
  3. No Downtime: You can return to your regular activities immediately after each session.
  4. Sustainable Relief: Many patients experience long-lasting improvement in their symptoms after completing treatment.

What Does a TMS Session Feel Like?

If you’re curious about what a TMS session involves, here’s what you can expect:

  • You’ll sit in a comfortable chair while a magnetic coil is placed on your head.
  • The machine delivers gentle pulses, which feel like light tapping or a tingling sensation.
  • Sessions are short and straightforward, and you can get back to your day as soon as it’s over.

Why TMS is a Breakthrough for Depression

For many people, TMS offers relief when nothing else has worked. Patients often report feeling lighter, more energized, and more like themselves after treatment. While every person’s experience is unique, the success rates are encouraging, particularly for those who’ve struggled with traditional methods.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If depression has been holding you back, NeuroStar TMS might be the breakthrough you’ve been searching for. At Brainerd Lakes Psychiatry, we’re proud to offer this innovative treatment to help our patients find relief and rediscover joy. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation.