Living with depression can affect almost every part of your life. Everyday responsibilities may feel more difficult, activities you once enjoyed may no longer feel meaningful, and finding the right treatment can sometimes be an exhausting process.
If medication, counselling, or other approaches have not provided the improvement you hoped for, you may be exploring another treatment option. TMS therapy is a non-invasive treatment that may help improve symptoms of depression. Understanding what happens before, during, and after treatment can make the experience feel more comfortable and less uncertain.
Understanding TMS Therapy and ExoMind™
Transcranial magnetic stimulation, commonly known as TMS therapy, uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. The treatment is non-invasive and does not require surgery, anesthesia, or sedation; the procedure itself does not involve taking medication. You remain awake throughout the appointment and can usually return to your regular activities afterward.
ExoMind™ uses TMS technology to deliver targeted stimulation as part of a personalized treatment plan. Because TMS therapy is generally provided through a series of appointments, it is important to view it as a treatment process rather than a one-time procedure. Your provider will recommend an appropriate schedule based on your health, symptoms, and individual needs.
Before TMS Therapy
Your experience will begin with a consultation. This appointment gives you an opportunity to discuss your symptoms, medical history, previous depression treatments, current medications, and any concerns you may have.
Your provider will also determine whether TMS therapy is appropriate for you. Be prepared to discuss important health information, including whether you:
- have a history of seizures or epilepsy
- have metal or electronic implants, especially in or near the head
- are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- have other medical or mental health conditions
Sharing complete and accurate information allows your provider to carefully consider your needs and explain any relevant safety considerations.
If ExoMind™ is considered appropriate, your provider will explain the recommended treatment schedule and what you can expect at each visit. This is also a good time to ask questions about the treatment, possible side effects, and how your progress will be monitored.
During TMS Therapy
During your appointment, you will lie comfortably while the ExoMind™ device is positioned near your head. The device delivers magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain while you remain awake and able to communicate with your provider.
You may hear clicking sounds and feel a tapping or tingling sensation on your scalp. Some people also experience temporary facial muscle movement or mild scalp discomfort during treatment. These sensations may feel unfamiliar at first, but many patients become more comfortable with them as their treatment continues.
Your provider will monitor you throughout the appointment. If the sensation becomes uncomfortable, let them know. Treatment settings may be adjusted when appropriate to support both comfort and effectiveness.
TMS therapy does not involve anesthesia or sedation, so you will not need to be put to sleep. Knowing that you can communicate with your treatment team throughout the session can make the process feel more manageable.
After TMS Therapy
TMS therapy generally does not require downtime. Because no anesthesia or sedation is used, you can typically drive and return to your normal daily activities after your appointment.
Some people experience a temporary headache or mild scalp sensitivity following a session. These effects are generally short-lived, but you should tell your provider about any symptoms that feel persistent, unusual, or concerning. Serious side effects are uncommon, but seizures can occur rarely, which is one reason your provider screens for risk factors before treatment.
You may not notice a change immediately. TMS therapy is usually completed over multiple sessions, and each person responds differently. Your provider will monitor your progress and may ask about changes in your:
- mood and emotional well-being
- energy and motivation
- sleep patterns
- concentration
- interest in everyday activities
Try to be open about both positive changes and ongoing challenges. This information can help your treatment team understand how you are responding and guide your care.
Learn More About TMS Therapy
Depression can make each day feel heavier, especially when the treatments you have tried have not provided the improvement you expected. Although reaching out may feel difficult, learning about another option can be a meaningful first step, and you don’t need to have everything figured out before asking for help.
At London Plastic Surgery & Advanced Aesthetics, we provide ExoMind™ TMS therapy in a welcoming environment where your comfort and well-being come first. We take the time to understand your needs, explain the process clearly, and help you decide whether this treatment may be suitable for you. Contact us when you are ready to learn more and move forward at your own pace.