When antidepressants haven’t worked: Understanding TMS

How does TMS work?

TMS delivers targeted magnetic pulses to specific brain regions linked to mood and emotional regulation.

These pulses help activate underactive brain circuits and rebalance neural activity associated with depression.

Put simply: It’s designed to “re-tune” parts of the brain that aren’t functioning as they should.

Who is TMS for?

TMS is typically considered for people who:

• have depression that hasn’t improved with medication or therapy
• experience side effects from antidepressants
• are looking for a non-medication treatment option

It’s often used in what’s called treatment-resistant depression – when standard treatments haven’t worked sufficiently.

How effective is TMS?

Research shows that:

• Around 50–60% of people experience meaningful improvement
• Around 30–40% may achieve remission (minimal or no symptoms)

While results vary, TMS is considered an evidence-based and effective option for depression, particularly when other treatments haven’t worked.

What does treatment involve?

A typical course of TMS:

• lasts 4–6 weeks
• involves sessions 5 days per week
• each session takes about 20–40 minutes

You can usually return to your normal day immediately after each session.

What are the side effects?

TMS is generally well tolerated.

Common side effects:

• mild headache
• scalp discomfort
• lightheadedness or facial twitching

Rare side effects:

• seizures (very uncommon)
• mania in people with bipolar disorder

Importantly, TMS:

• does not require anaesthetic
• does not cause memory loss
• typically has fewer systemic side effects than medication

How is TMS different from antidepressants?

TMS works in a completely different way.

Is TMS right for everyone?

Not always.

TMS may not be suitable if someone has:

• certain neurological conditions (e.g. seizure disorders)
• metal implants in or near the head
• other specific medical considerations

A proper assessment with a GP or psychiatrist is always required to determine suitability.

FAQs

What is TMS in simple terms?
A non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood.

Does TMS hurt?
Most people feel only mild discomfort or tapping on the scalp.

How long does TMS take to work?
Some people notice changes within a few weeks, but a full course is usually 4–6 weeks.

Is TMS safe?
Yes. It has a strong safety profile, with mostly mild and temporary side effects.

Can TMS cure depression?
It doesn’t work for everyone, but many people experience significant improvement or remission.

Final thought

If you or someone you care about is living with depression and not getting the results you hoped for from current treatment, there are other options worth exploring.

TMS is one of them – and for some people, it can be a meaningful step forward.

Want to learn more or see if TMS could be right for you?

Speak with your GP or psychiatrist, or reach out to our team:

P: 1800 284 830
E: [email protected]