Treatment-Resistant Depression: How TMS Therapy Helps
Understanding Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
Depression affects millions of people in the United States, and for many, antidepressant medications or talk therapy provide relief. However, one source estimates 2.8 to 4.4 million adults in the US have treatment-resistant depression (TRD)1. These adults continue to experience significant symptoms despite trying multiple treatments. This condition is known as Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD).
How is TRD Defined?
TRD generally refers to depression that hasn’t improved after trying at least two different antidepressant medications at appropriate doses for a sufficient period of time. Importantly, it doesn’t mean someone’s depression cannot be treated—it simply means the first-line treatments haven’t provided enough relief, and it may be time to consider other approaches.
People living with TRD may experience persistent symptoms such as8:
- Ongoing sadness or hopelessness
- Low energy or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or despair
Because TRD can have a significant impact on daily life, finding effective treatment options is essential for improving quality of life and mental well-being.
Why Standard Treatments May Not Work
Depression is a complex condition that affects the brain’s chemistry, structure, and neural connections. For some people, antidepressants alone may not be enough to address underactive brain regions linked to mood regulation. This is why alternative or adjunctive treatments are often needed for TRD.
How NeuroStar TMS Therapy Can Help
NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment for adults with depression, including those with TRD. Unlike medications that affect the whole brain and body, TMS targets specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
How NeuroStar TMS Works With Your Brain
Through focused magnetic pulses, TMS:
- Stimulates underactive brain regions: TMS directly targets areas involved in depression.
- Supports neuroplasticity: associated with changes in brain activity and connectivity in brain areas involved in mood regulation.
- Promotes long-lasting improvement: Clinical studies show that TMS can lead to sustained relief from depressive symptoms3.
NeuroStar TMS therapy sessions are typically administered in an outpatient setting and are well-tolerated, without the common systemic side effects compared to medications9.
Who May Benefit from TMS?
TMS therapy may be used by adults aged 22+ who:
- Have major depressive disorder (MDD) or treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
- Have tried multiple antidepressant medications without sufficient relief
- Prefer a non-drug treatment option or want to supplement their current treatment plan
TMS therapy may be used as an adjunct treatment for adolescents aged 15 – 21 in combination with other therapies such as medication &/or talk therapy.
A qualified mental health provider can determine whether TMS is an appropriate treatment based on your medical history and current symptoms.
Take the Next Step
Living with treatment-resistant depression can be frustrating and overwhelming, but effective treatment options exist. NeuroStar® TMS therapy has helped over 230,000 people4 with their depression.
Learn More About How NeuroStar TMS Works In This 1-Minute Video
