Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a therapeutic medical procedure approved by Health Canada for the treatment of mental health problems, such as major depression. Researchers have found benefits in treating other conditions such as OCD, PTSD, eating disorders, fibromyalgia and substance use disorders.
How Does It Work?
It is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes focused magnetic field pulses to stimulate the neurons
in the brain. In depressed patients, the electrical activity in certain areas of the brain is shown to
be reduced. TMS targeted in these areas reawakens these cells, increasing brain activity to
appropriate levels.
Does TMS Work?
TMS is effective about 75% of the time, which means that it is twice as effective as antidepressant medications and almost as effective as electroconvulsive therapy. Nearly half of those who respond to TMS feel better within the first few weeks of treatment.
