TMS Ruined My Life: Can It Damage Your Brain?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has grown in popularity over the last five years, often boasting breakthrough treatment status for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. 

TMS was cleared by the FDA in 2008 and is now approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder, OCD [2], and, most recently, smoking cessation [3]. While many individuals have experienced lasting benefits, sometimes even surpassing the effects of antidepressant medication, others have reported adverse reactions or a lack of improvement. As a result, the debate over its effectiveness and potential risks continues.

People who have had adverse reactions or disappointing results sometimes share their experiences online with phrases like “TMS ruined my life” or “TMS made me worse.” Understanding the nuances of these claims and the research behind TMS is essential for those considering TMS therapy.

What Is TMS Therapy?

TMS therapy is a non-invasive treatment for depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders (like OCD). It utilizes a powerful magnetic field—approximately 30,000 times stronger than a standard refrigerator magnet—to deliver pulses that stimulate nerve cells in the brain, specifically targeting the prefrontal cortex, which plays a key role in mood regulation.

The therapy was pioneered by Mark George, who, through brain imaging studies on patients with depression, identified reduced activity in certain areas of the brain [1]. His goal was to find a way to stimulate these underactive regions using magnetic pulses. Much like how muscles during exercise strengthen and improve function over time, TMS takes a similar approach, stimulating areas of the brain to fire more frequently. The driving aim behind this therapy is to effectively lessen symptoms of depression and other mental health disorders. 

How TMS Works

• A coil is placed on the scalp, delivering magnetic pulses.
• These pulses stimulate nerve cells involved in mood regulation [4].
• The treatment is typically administered over multiple sessions, lasting several weeks.
• TMS therapy does not require sedation, and patients can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.

What Is the Controversy With TMS Therapy?

TMS therapy has been the subject of debate due to its efficacy, potential side effects, and high costs. Some people swear by its benefits, claiming “TMS saved my life from anxiety,” while others report worsening symptoms and label their experience as a “TMS horror story.”

Common Controversies:

• Effectiveness: Some argue that TMS does not work for everyone and may be less effective than advertised.
• Side Effects: Negative side effects, such as headaches, anxiety, or cognitive fog, have been reported.
• Cost: TMS can be expensive, and insurance coverage is not always guaranteed.
• Worsening Symptoms: Some people report that “TMS made me worse,” experiencing increased depression or anxiety.

While these controversies are easily accessible via online forums such as Reddit, many studies also support the safety and efficacy of TMS treatment. 

One study conducted by a reputable Medical Journal [5] examined the efficacy of TMS in 38 patients aged 18-65 with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) who had not responded to a minimum of two different antidepressants. At the end of the study, 63% of patients responded to treatment, 15% showed partial improvement, and 42% achieved remission. 

Notably, TMS was well tolerated, with minimal side effects; the most common was headache (21%), but no severe adverse effects or treatment discontinuation occurred [5]. These findings suggest that TMS could be an effective treatment for the right candidates. 

What Are the Negatives of TMS?

While TMS therapy is generally considered safe, some individuals report experiencing negative side effects. Common complaints include:

• Headaches
• Scalp discomfort
• Increased anxiety or panic attacks
• Sleep disturbances
• Mood swings
• Emotional bluntness
• Cognitive fog
• Sensory sensitivity

Additionally, some individuals experience what is known as a “TMS dip,” where their mood temporarily worsens before improving. However, for others, symptoms did not improve at all, leading to frustration and disappointment. This worsening period can lead to distress, where individuals begin questioning, “Can TMS make depression worse?” or “Can TMS make anxiety worse?”

The expectational excitement behind TMS as a “breakthrough” treatment may contribute to some of the extremely negative reviews. While advancements in mental health treatments are exciting and offer hope, no single therapy should be viewed as a definitive cure for mental illness. Continued research, development, and a multifaceted, personalized approach to treatment should remain essential when addressing the complexities of mental health conditions.

Side Effects of TMS Compared to Antidepressants

When considering treatment options for depression and other mental health challenges, it’s important to weigh the side effects of TMS therapy against those of antidepressants.

Side Effects Reported for Both TMS and Antidepressants

• Headaches: TMS therapy often causes mild headaches, usually after sessions, while antidepressants are less commonly associated with headaches, though they are still a reported side effect of many SSRIs.
• Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Some patients experience increased anxiety or panic during or after TMS sessions. The same is true for antidepressant users, especially during the initial stages of treatment.
• Sleep Disturbances: TMS therapy has been reported to cause sleep irregularities, while many antidepressants are known to affect sleep cycles, sometimes leading to insomnia or excessive drowsiness.

Side Effects Only Reported for TMS

• TMS-Induced Headaches: While headaches occur with both treatments, they are more frequently reported with TMS due to the stimulation of scalp nerves during treatment.
• Neck Pain: Some patients experienced neck pain, likely due to muscle tension from repetitive stimulation or positioning during treatment sessions.
• Scalp Burn: A rare side effect, only a few Individuals reported a burning sensation on the scalp during or after TMS sessions, likely due to prolonged exposure to magnetic pulses [4].

Side Effects Only Reported for Antidepressants

• Weight Gain: Unlike antidepressants, which commonly lead to weight gain due to metabolic changes, TMS therapy does not cause significant changes in body weight.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Antidepressants are well-documented in causing sexual dysfunction, while TMS therapy does not typically lead to such side effects.
• Dependency and Withdrawal: Antidepressants often come with a risk of dependency, requiring a gradual tapering process to avoid withdrawal symptoms. TMS therapy does not have dependency-related risks, as it does not involve medication.

While both TMS and antidepressants have side effects, patient experiences also shape perceptions of treatment. This raises the question of why there are negative TMS therapy reviews. 

Understanding TMS Therapy Negative Reviews

Many negative reviews of TMS therapy stem from individuals who did not experience the desired results or who suffered from unexpected side effects. Some report that “TMS cost me my marriage,” as worsening symptoms affected their personal relationships. Others believe that “neurofeedback ruined my life” and attribute similar experiences to TMS therapy.

Negative experiences with TMS often include:

• A lack of improvement in symptoms
• An increase in depressive or anxious thoughts
• Discomfort during or after treatment
• Financial strain from expensive sessions
• Changes in sleep patterns leading to exhaustion
• Feeling disconnected or emotionally flat

Why Is TMS Making Me Worse?

While TMS is designed to improve mood, some individuals report that it worsens their symptoms. Possible reasons include:

• Misdiagnosis: TMS is most effective for treatment-resistant depression, but not all individuals are ideal candidates.
• TMS Dip: Some patients experience a temporary worsening of symptoms before improvement occurs.
• Increased Anxiety: Brain stimulation may heighten anxiety in some individuals.
• Improper Coil Placement: Treatment effectiveness can decrease if the coil is not positioned correctly.
• Personal Neurobiology: Not everyone responds to TMS the same way due to differences in brain chemistry, genetics, and overall health.
• Longer-Term Emotional Changes: Some patients have reported long-term emotional numbness or cognitive changes post-TMS.

Before and After TMS Therapy

For some, TMS therapy leads to life-changing improvements. Others, however, report worsening symptoms, questioning, “Can TMS make depression worse?”

Understanding these varied experiences can help set realistic expectations. Individuals considering TMS should weigh the pros and cons, consult with a healthcare provider they trust, and discuss alternatives if they are concerned about negative outcomes.

Alternatives to TMS Therapy

For those who have had a negative experience with TMS or are hesitant to try it, there are alternative treatments available for depression and anxiety. While TMS is a promising option for many, it is not the only approach, and some people may find better results with other therapies.

Other Treatment Options:

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and other talk therapies can help individuals manage their symptoms more effectively.
• Medication Adjustments: Some individuals who did not respond well to TMS may benefit from adjusting their medication regimen under a medical professional’s supervision.
• Neurofeedback Therapy: While some claim that “neurofeedback ruined my life,” others have reported benefits from this alternative brainwave training therapy.
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): Though more invasive, ECT is a well-established treatment for severe depression, particularly for those who do not respond to other therapies.
• Lifestyle and Holistic Approaches: Exercise, diet, meditation, and mindfulness can complement traditional therapies to improve mental health.

For those who feel that “TMS ruined my life,” exploring alternative therapies can be a crucial step in finding a treatment that truly works for you. Consulting with a mental health professional can help determine the best path forward.

FAQs About TMS Therapy

What Are the Bad Things About TMS?

Some individuals report side effects such as headaches, sleep disturbances, increased anxiety, and no symptom improvement. Additionally, TMS therapy can be expensive and may not work for everyone, which can make TMS therapy feel daunting. The financial burden and the emotional toll of ineffective treatment contribute to negative reviews from some patients.

What Is the Controversy With TMS?

The controversy surrounding TMS includes questions about its effectiveness, high cost, potential side effects, and reports of worsening mental health symptoms in some individuals. Additionally, critics argue that long-term effects are not well understood, as this therapy is relatively new—leading some to claim that the “transcranial magnetic stimulation controversy” is valid.

What Is the Success Rate of TMS?

The success rate of TMS varies depending on the individual and condition being treated. In general, studies show that for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), response rates typically range from 50-60%, with remission rates around 30-40%. 

However, research on older adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) has demonstrated even higher success rates. One study of 247 patients aged 60 and above found 70-80% response rates and 40-60% remission rates after 20-30 sessions. These results suggest that TMS can be highly effective across different age groups, making it a viable option for those struggling with depression, including late-life MDD [6].

Is It Normal to Cry After TMS?

Yes, emotional fluctuations, including crying, can be a part of the brain’s adjustment to TMS therapy. Some patients experience emotional release, while others may feel worse before improvement occurs. This is often part of the “TMS dip,” where emotions intensify before stabilizing.

Struggling with Mental Health? Get Help at Connections

While TMS may not be the therapy for you, there are many more therapies that can help you find stability and wellness in your mental health journey. 

If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental health disorder, Connections Mental Health offers compassionate, expert care. Our inpatient program provides a supportive environment where you can focus on your well-being with the guidance of experienced staff and licensed counselors.

We prioritize evidence-based treatment in a comfortable, home-like setting, ensuring an effective and restorative therapeutic experience.

Our residences feature a range of personalized therapies and amenities, including:

• 24/7 clinically supervised care
• Peaceful oceanside location
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
• Dual-diagnosis mental health treatment
• Aftercare planning
• Counseling
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Aftercare
• & More

Your healing matters to us. Call our admissions team today at 844-759-0999

Sources

[1] https://psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms#recap

[2] https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-permits-marketing-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-treatment-obsessive-compulsive-disorder

[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9869803/

[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6592198/#:~:text=It%20involves%20the%20application%20of,secondary%20coil%20in%20this%20situation.

[5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10387872/

[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10856385/