Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has become a recognised option for people living with treatment-resistant depression. If you’re exploring this path, one of the first questions that may come up is—how long does TMS take to work?
It’s a fair question. When you’re in the middle of managing symptoms, waiting for improvement can feel endless. Here’s what you can expect when starting TMS, based on current research and clinical experience.
How Long Does TMS Take to Work for Most People?
Everyone responds to treatment in their own way, but most people begin to notice improvements within the first two to four weeks of starting TMS. According to research, gradual progress is common. For some, the changes feel subtle at first—like better sleep or a small lift in energy levels.
Others might notice mood shifts more quickly, but it’s rare to see full remission within the first few sessions. A typical course of TMS involves five treatments per week over four to six weeks. That’s about 20 to 30 sessions in total. Some patients benefit from additional sessions, depending on how their symptoms respond over time.
What Happens During TMS Treatment?
TMS is non-invasive, and sessions usually take around 20 to 40 minutes. You’ll sit in a chair while a coil delivers magnetic pulses to specific areas of your brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex—an area involved in mood regulation.
You don’t need anaesthesia, and you’ll be awake the entire time. Some people describe the sensation as tapping or tingling on the scalp, but it’s not usually painful.
Because there’s no recovery time needed, you can get back to your day after the session. This makes TMS especially accessible for people with busy schedules or those who can’t afford much time off work.
What Can Influence How Long TMS Takes to Work?
Several factors can affect how quickly someone responds to TMS:
- The severity of symptoms – People with more severe depression may take longer to respond.
- Other mental health conditions – If you’re also managing anxiety or a mood disorder, your psychiatrist may need to customise your treatment further.
- Consistency of sessions – Attending sessions regularly is important. Missing too many can interrupt the treatment effect.
- Previous treatment history – People who’ve tried several medications without relief may take a little longer to respond but still benefit from TMS.
Your treating psychiatrist will monitor your progress closely and may adjust the treatment if needed. This is also where ongoing support matters—some patients combine TMS with therapy or medication for the best results.
How Long Do the Effects of TMS Last?
TMS isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment; its benefits can vary like any therapy. Some people experience long-term relief after completing their course. Others may need maintenance sessions down the track to keep symptoms in check.
A study found that around 50 to 60% of people with treatment-resistant depression respond positively to TMS, with about one-third achieving full remission. That’s a significant outcome—especially for those with limited success with other treatments.
How TMS Fits Into Broader Mental Health Support
TMS can be life-changing for many people, but it’s not the only form of care available. It’s typically used when first-line treatments haven’t been effective, or when side effects from medication make it hard to continue.
At Mind Oasis, we take a personalised approach to care. If you’re already working with a telehealth psychiatrist, we can help explore whether TMS suits your treatment plan. We also support people living with co-occurring conditions, and our psychiatrist for mood disorder services may be helpful alongside TMS.
Supporting Your Progress Through the Process
Like any mental health treatment, TMS takes time—and sometimes patience. But it also offers hope. If you’ve been living with persistent symptoms and feel like nothing’s worked, this might be a new path to explore.
At Mind Oasis, our team of experienced psychiatrists can help you decide if TMS is the right step. We work closely with each patient to build a treatment plan that’s realistic, evidence-based and centred around your goals.
Ready to Learn More About TMS?
If you’re considering TMS or want to understand how it might fit into your mental health journey, contact the Mind Oasis team. We’re here to provide compassionate care—online or in person—and we’ll support you every step of the way.