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Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

When medication or psychotherapy are not enough to reduce severe depression symptoms, alternate therapies are available and can be very effective. Banner Health offers transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy to help relieve symptoms of depression and help our patients get back to feeling like themselves.

People struggling with severe depression can experience emotional distress or suicidal crisis. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, call 1-800-273-TALK for confidential and emotional support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an innovative treatment designed to help reduce the symptoms of depression when traditional psychotherapy or medications have failed. TMS is noninvasive and patients can go home immediately after the procedure.

What to Expect from Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy

TMS involves activating the nerve cells in the brain by using magnetic fields. These magnetic fields are transferred to the brain by placing an electromagnetic coil on the patient’s head near the forehead. The coil then delivers repetitive magnetic pulses to a specific region of the brain to stimulate the nerve cells that are associated with mood control and depression.

Unlike other brain stimulation therapies and techniques, transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy does not require implantation of electrodes or anesthesia and will not induce seizures or loss of consciousness. TMS is painless with little to no side effects and is performed on an outpatient basis.

When psychotherapy and medication don’t seem to alleviate your symptoms, the caring and compassionate staff at Banner Health is here to offer innovative solutions that work for you. Talk to your doctor to see if transcranial magnetic stimulation is right for you.