For some people living with depression, standard treatments like medication or therapy don’t provide the relief they were hoping for. When that happens, it’s normal to start looking for alternatives. One of those options is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS therapy.
TMS is a non-invasive treatment that targets specific areas of the brain using magnetic pulses. It’s used most often to support people with depression that hasn’t responded well to other treatments. But like any medical intervention, it’s not right for everyone—and it’s worth weighing up both the pros and cons of TMS therapy before deciding what’s next.
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of TMS therapy, and what you might expect if you’re thinking about giving it a try.
The Pros of TMS Therapy
A non-invasive approach
One of the most appealing parts of TMS therapy is that it doesn’t involve surgery, needles, or sedation. You remain awake during each session, and there’s no need for recovery time afterwards. For those looking for an option that doesn’t involve medication, this can be an encouraging step forward.
Fewer side effects
While medication can be life-changing for many, it isn’t always well tolerated. Some people experience weight gain, sexual dysfunction, fatigue, or emotional numbness on certain antidepressants. TMS therapy, on the other hand, tends to have fewer and milder side effects. The most commonly reported ones include a mild headache or scalp discomfort during or after a session.
Effective for treatment-resistant depression
Research has shown that TMS may help reduce symptoms in people who haven’t had success with at least two other antidepressants. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved TMS for use in treatment-resistant depression in Australia, and clinical trials continue to support its use as a safe and effective treatment option.
Fitting around everyday life
Each session usually lasts between 20 to 40 minutes, and you can drive yourself to and from the clinic. Most people go straight back to their usual routines after treatment. This flexibility can make it easier to keep up with work, family commitments, and day-to-day responsibilities.
The Cons of TMS Therapy
It’s not a quick fix
TMS is typically delivered over four to six weeks, with around five sessions per week. It takes time, and for some, the commitment can be hard to manage. Results also vary—some people notice improvements in a few weeks, while others might take longer or see limited change.
Access and cost can be barriers
Although some private hospitals include it in inpatient programs, TMS isn’t yet covered under Medicare for outpatient treatment in Australia. Private health insurance may offer partial coverage, depending on the policy. It’s always best to speak with your provider before starting treatment to understand what’s included.
Not suitable for everyone
While TMS is generally well tolerated, it may not be the right choice for everyone. People with a history of uncontrolled seizures, epilepsy, or certain medical implants may not be suitable candidates. A full assessment by a medical professional—usually a psychiatrist—is necessary before starting treatment.
TMS Doesn’t Replace Other Forms of Care
It’s important to remember that TMS isn’t a replacement for psychological support or a healthy routine. In most cases, it’s part of a wider care plan. That may include therapy, medication, exercise, or lifestyle changes.
People often ask if they can continue seeing a psychologist or working with an online psychiatrist in Australia while doing TMS—and the answer is usually yes. In fact, many treatment plans are built to include multiple supports working together.
What Comes Next
Deciding on TMS therapy is a personal choice, and it’s not one you have to make on your own. If you’ve been living with depression for a while and feel like nothing’s worked, it can be exhausting to keep searching. But it’s worth knowing that other options exist.
At Mind Oasis, we support people with a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression treatments. Our team is here if you’d like to know more about TMS therapy—or if you just want to talk to someone about what you’re going through.