When traditional treatments don’t seem to help, or the side effects of medication become too difficult to manage, many individuals facing depressive symptoms and anxiety disorders begin looking for alternatives. One of the most promising and effective options available today is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)—a breakthrough therapy offered at Exult Healthcare.
But how does TMS work? Is it right for your situation? And can it really improve symptoms of anxiety and depression, even when other treatments have failed?
Let’s explore what TMS is and how it may help people living with mental health conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and treatment-resistant depression.
What Is TMS?
TMS, short for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a cutting-edge treatment that uses gentle, focused magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which requires sedation and often causes more severe side effects, TMS is a non-invasive outpatient procedure. It requires no anesthesia, and most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after each session.
At Exult Healthcare, we also offer deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (Deep TMS)—a more advanced form of the therapy that can reach deeper brain structures and improve outcomes for certain individuals.
How Does TMS Work?
TMS devices use an electromagnetic coil placed near the scalp to deliver short bursts of magnetic pulses to stimulate certain areas of the brain, particularly those associated with mood, focus, and stress response.
In depression, for example, activity in certain brain regions—like the prefrontal cortex—tends to be lower than normal. TMS stimulates specific areas of the brain to restore healthier activity levels. This can lead to lasting improvements in mood, energy, and emotional regulation.
TMS for Depression
TMS treatment was originally approved by the FDA to treat treatment-resistant depression—a condition in which individuals have not responded well to at least two antidepressant medications.
In a number of double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trials, TMS has shown significant improvements in depressive symptoms, often without the side effects seen with medication (such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or drowsiness).
Many patients at Exult Healthcare report:
· Increased motivation and focus
· Better sleep quality
· Improved emotional stability
· Greater enjoyment of daily life
TMS is especially helpful when other therapies have failed, giving hope to those who may feel they’ve exhausted their options.
TMS for Anxiety
While TMS is best known for depression, research also supports its effectiveness in treating anxiety and related conditions. In fact, anxiety and depression often go hand-in-hand—and treating one can improve the other.
TMS treatment has shown promise for several anxiety disorders, including:
· Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
· Panic Disorder
· Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
· Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
By stimulating the area of the brain that regulates fear and emotional response, TMS helps calm hyperactivity and reduce anxious thoughts. For those with OCD, targeted TMS can help break compulsive patterns and reduce intrusive thinking.
At Exult Healthcare, your provider will customize your treatment sessions to match your condition and goals—whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or both.
What to Expect During TMS Treatment
TMS treatment is typically done five days a week for four to six weeks. Each session lasts about 20 to 40 minutes. Here’s what to expect:
1. You’ll sit in a comfortable chair while a trained technician places the TMS coil on your head.
2. You’ll hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your scalp as the magnetic pulses are delivered.
3. There’s no need for anesthesia, and you can drive yourself home after the session.
4. Side effects are generally mild, with the most common being slight scalp discomfort or a headache during or shortly after treatment.
Most patients begin to see results within two to four weeks, with improvements building over time.
Are There Side Effects?
One of the biggest benefits of TMS is that it’s non-invasive and well tolerated by most patients. Compared to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or certain medications, side effects are minimal. Some people experience:
· Mild scalp tenderness
· Headache after sessions
· Light dizziness (rare)
Unlike medications, TMS does not cause weight gain, fatigue, or memory problems, making it a more attractive option for many patients.
Is TMS Right for You?
You may be a good candidate for TMS at Exult Healthcare if:
· You’ve tried multiple medications without success
· You’re experiencing significant depressive symptoms or anxiety that interferes with daily life
· You’re looking for a non-drug alternative with fewer side effects
· You’re managing conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, GAD, PTSD, or OCD
We offer personalized evaluations to determine whether deep transcranial magnetic stimulation or standard TMS is right for you.
Final Thoughts
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is changing lives by offering a safe, non-invasive solution for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, and related conditions. Backed by science and grounded in compassion, TMS at Exult Healthcare helps you regain control of your mental health without the burden of medication side effects.
If you or someone you love is navigating mental health conditions and wondering if there’s another way forward—TMS treatment may be the answer.
Ready to explore how TMS can support your recovery? Contact Exult Healthcare today for a consultation and take the first step toward renewed hope and healing.
