Depression has become a common mental health problem for modern people, affecting hundreds of millions worldwide. It's more than just feeling down it can make people lose interest in life, impacting work and relationships. In Taiwan, about 2 million people are struggling with depression, but less than one-fifth seek professional help. 

Doctors warn that many people, due to a lack of understanding of their condition or fear of being labeled, choose to endure the pain, which can lead to a worsening of the condition and significant risks.  People experiencing persistent emotional distress are advised to seek professional medical evaluation for effective treatment. 

Dr. Hsu Shu-hao, a specialist in addiction treatment at Taipei市立聯合醫院松德院區, points out that depression treatment is multifaceted. When medication and psychotherapy are ineffective, deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (Deep TMS) has emerged as a more innovative and safer treatment option.Deep TMS is especially suitable for patients who do not respond well to medication or are troubled by its side effects. (Image/Heho Health)

Dr. Hsu explains that Deep TMS and traditional repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) both use magnetic fields to stimulate the brain and improve depressive symptoms. However, they differ in the depth and scope of stimulation. rTMS primarily stimulates the surface areas of the brain, while Deep TMS can penetrate deeper, stimulating the brain's core emotional control regions with a wider impact. Clinical evidence shows that for patients with ineffective medication or rTMS, Deep TMS demonstrates more significant improvement in speed and efficacy. 

Clinical studies confirm that Deep TMS is particularly effective for patients with treatment-resistant depression, significantly improving symptoms such as low mood and poor sleep quality. Many patients who have undergone Deep TMS report improved mood, better sleep, and a renewed sense of life purpose. 

Regarding the potential discomfort during treatment, Dr. Hsu states that Deep TMS is safe and painless.  Patients only need to wear a special helmet, and the treatment typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes.  No injections or medication are required, and patients can resume normal activities immediately following the treatment, without needing special leave or rest. Compared to the potential side effects of medication, such as nausea, drowsiness, and weight changes, Deep TMS poses minimal burden and offers a more comfortable treatment experience. 

Deep TMS is particularly suitable for patients who don't respond well to medication or experience negative side effects from medication. It can also be used in combination with medication or psychotherapy, but a professional doctor should determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the patient's specific situation. Dr. Hsu emphasizes that depression, like a cold, is treatable. Many patients have successfully overcome depression and regained their lives after receiving appropriate therapy.Dr. Hsu Shu-Hao, Attending Physician, Department of Addiction Medicine, Songde Branch, Taipei City Hospital (Image/Heho Health)