TMS for Adolescents: A New Frontier in Depression Treatment

For many teens struggling with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), traditional treatment methods—like therapy and medication—just aren’t enough. Some don’t respond to antidepressants, while others experience side effects that make them difficult to tolerate. This leaves many adolescents feeling hopeless, and their families searching for alternative solutions.
The reality:

• MDD is now the leading cause of disability for people ages 15-41 in the U.S
• Depression rates among adolescents have skyrocketed, increasing from 2 million cases in 2010 to around 5 million in 2022—a 144% increase
• Suicide rates have climbed by 58% in that same period
• Nearly 20% of adolescents will experience a depressive episode each year

This crisis is leaving parents deeply concerned—more so than even their child’s physical safety. And, with limited FDA-approved antidepressants for adolescents (Lexapro and Prozac, both carrying black box warnings for increased suicidal ideation), the need for safe, effective alternatives has never been more urgent.

Enter TMS: A Breakthrough in Depression Treatment for Teens

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is changing the game. This non-invasive treatment uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It’s been FDA-approved for depression in adults since 2008 and has gained widespread recognition for its effectiveness. But, in March 2024, TMS received FDA approval for adolescents aged 15-21—marking a huge milestone in adolescent mental health care.

Why More Teens (and Their Parents) Are Turning to TMS

Unlike medications that alter brain chemistry systemically, TMS directly targets the regions in the brain involved in mood regulation—without the side effects commonly seen with antidepressants. When administered by trained professionals, it is generally considered safe and can be quite effective in reducing symptoms of depression. Here’s why families are considering it:

• Safe & Non-Invasive – No sedation, no downtime, and minimal side effects (mild headaches, scalp discomfort, or lightheadedness)
• Proven Effective – Studies show significant symptom improvement for many teens
• Fast & Convenient – Sessions last 20-40 minutes, a few times a week over 4-6 weeks
• Outpatient Treatment – No hospital stays, allowing teens to continue school and daily activities

Bloom Health Centers: Leading the Way in TMS Care

At Bloom Health Centers, we believe in staying ahead of the curve when it comes to innovative psychiatric care. Since launching our TMS program, we’ve completed over 18,000 treatments—and the results speak for themselves.

We’ve seen remarkable improvements in our patients, with reduced psychiatric symptoms, fewer hospitalizations, and a decrease in sentinel events. Now, with TMS officially available for adolescents, we’re witnessing young people regain their sense of hope, stability, and emotional well-being.

If your teen is struggling with depression and traditional treatments haven’t worked, TMS could be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.

Want to learn more? Contact Bloom Health Centers today and explore how TMS can help your child thrive.

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About the Authors:

Dr. Yusuf Azim, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in general psychiatry and treatment resistant depression. Dr. Azim treats adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients who suffer from depression with years of experience and specialized training in the D.C. metropolitan area.

Alexis McCassie, M.S. has an education rooted in talk therapy, and has developed a special interest in treatment resistant disorders and innovative treatment options. Alexis is passionate about educating others about lesser-known treatment alternatives within the psychiatry field and ensuring Blooms patients have access to the best treatment avenues available.