Understanding Depression
Depression isn’t a bad mood or the case of the blues. Depression lasts.
Part of a family of disorders known as mood disorders, depression can range from mild, short-lived episodes of sadness to more severe and long-lasting forms. While some individuals may experience temporary symptoms that improve on their own, others face chronic depression that deeply affects their daily lives and overall mental well-being.
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Left untreated, depression can make daily life all but impossible. It will cause problems at work, in school, and with relationships. In some cases, depression can even lead to substance use, self-harm, and worse. This is especially true for treatment-resistant depression, which is a form of depression that doesn’t respond to traditional forms of treatment.
However, there’s always hope. Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry uses an effective form of treatment called transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS. If you’ve been struggling with depression that just won’t go away, we can help you live a life that’s truly yours.
What is Depression?
Depression is a complex health condition that affects our emotions and daily functioning. It’s part of a family of mental health disorders known as mood disorders, which affect the way we feel emotions, think, and act.
Symptoms of depression include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Sleeping problems
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness that last for a long time
Who Gets Depression?
Depression doesn’t discriminate – like other mental disorders, anyone can develop depression.
However, according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), there are some risk factors that contribute to how depression develops:
Risk Factor for Depression: Chemical Factors
Certain differences in neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin can contribute to depression.
Risk Factor for Depression: Environmental Factors
Coming from an environment with exposure to violence, poverty, abuse, or neglect can cause depression to develop.
Risk Factor for Depression: Genetics
Having close relatives or family members who struggle with depression is a risk factor for developing depression yourself. For example, the APA says that if one identical twin has depression, the other has a 70% chance of developing it as well.
Risk Factor for Depression: Personality Types
People who are easily overwhelmed by stress, have low self-esteem, and have a generally pessimistic worldview can be at risk for developing depression.
Is Depression a Common Condition?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), depression is one of the most common mental health disorders in the United States. According to the healthcare agency, nearly 15 million American adults report experiencing a depressive episode each year.
This finding is similar to that reported by Gallup, a polling agency. A 2025 report published by them said levels of depression in the US increased from nearly 21% in 2017 to almost 30% in 2023. Young adults showed a particularly alarming increase, with people aged 18 to 29 showing an increase of depression from 20.4% in 2017 to 34% in 2023.
How is Depression Diagnosed?
Depression is diagnosed through physical and psychological assessments. Only a medical professional can accurately diagnose you with depression.
For most, a diagnosis of depression starts with an interview given by a clinical professional. They generally ask questions about:
- Your daily life
- Behavior patterns, including substance use
- The kinds of feelings you’ve been having
- The length of time you’ve been experiencing depressive symptoms
And more.
You might also fill out questionnaires, which help your clinicians better understand you.
Medical professionals may also ask questions about your physical health. This is because certain conditions, like thyroid disorders, have symptoms that resemble depression. You might have to take a blood test, too.
This can seem invasive, but it genuinely helps your caregivers better understand you and your needs. Basically, the more they know, the better they can help you.
Are There Different Kinds of Depression?
Depression is a mood disorder, part of a group of conditions that affect a person’s emotions. Mood disorders include:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): This is a complex condition that involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and appetite changes.
- Postpartum Depression: Postpartum depression is a form of depression that affects new mothers shortly after giving birth. When it’s severe, it can interfere with a mother’s ability to care for their baby.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): SAD is a form of depression brought about by the change of seasons, particularly in winter. It’s thought to be caused by experiencing less sunlight.
- Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD): TRD is a form of depression that doesn’t respond to forms of treatment like antidepressants.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?
Living with depression can be overwhelming, often making it difficult to complete daily tasks or maintain relationships. Individuals experiencing two or more of the following symptoms for over two weeks may have major depressive disorder (MDD):
- Persistent depressed mood throughout the day, nearly every day.
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
- Significant weight changes or appetite fluctuations.
- Insomnia or excessive sleep.
- Fatigue or low energy levels.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation.
What is Treatment-Resistant Depression?
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a form of depression that doesn’t respond to antidepressants. According to the Cleveland Clinic, TRD is diagnosed when at least two different antidepressants don’t improve a person’s symptoms.
For many individuals, standard depression treatments like antidepressants and psychotherapy may not be effective. If you have tried multiple medications and therapies without relief, you may be experiencing TRD.
TMS therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking alternative for those struggling with TRD.
How TMS Therapy Can Help with Treatment-Resistant Depression
If traditional depression treatments haven’t worked for you, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) offers a safe and effective alternative. TMS therapy for depression uses noninvasive magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive brain cells in the prefrontal cortex, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation.
Here are some benefits of TMS therapy for depression:
- Drug-Free Treatment: No medication required, reducing the risk of side effects.
- FDA-Approved and Safe: TMS is a proven treatment for treatment-resistant depression.
- Noninvasive and Painless: No anesthesia or sedation needed.
- Improves Mood, Energy, and Sleep: Helps restore normal brain function.
- Minimal Side Effects: Some patients may experience mild scalp irritation or headache, which typically subsides.
TMS therapy is conducted in a clinical setting while you’re fully awake — no anesthesia required. Sessions last about 30-40 minutes, with a full course of treatment spanning 4-6 weeks. Many patients experience noticeable improvements in their symptoms, regaining a sense of well-being and emotional stability. Best of all, there’s little to no recovery time. After you’re done, you can continue with your day.
How Do I Help a Loved One with Depression?
Supporting someone you care about through depression takes compassion, patience, and sensitivity. It can be painful to watch a loved one struggle, and it’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to do. Even so, there are meaningful ways to offer support and encourage them toward getting help.
- Choose Your Words Thoughtfully: When emotions run high, it’s easy to speak without thinking. Try to avoid phrases that minimize what they’re experiencing, such as telling them to “snap out of it.” Depression isn’t something a person can simply overcome through willpower, and dismissive comments can shut down communication.
- Listen Without Judgment: Give your loved one space to talk about what they’re feeling. Just listening without trying to fix everything can help them feel less alone. Feeling heard may also make them more open to exploring next steps.
- Learn About Depression: Understanding what depression is and how it affects people can help you respond with empathy. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to support them in a grounded, informed way.
- Offer Gentle Encouragement: You can suggest seeking professional support in a calm, respectful way. Helping them look for a therapist or offering practical support—like accompanying them to appointments—can make the process feel less overwhelming.
- Practice Patience: Recovery takes time, and progress isn’t always linear. Avoid pressuring your loved one to “get better.” Instead, remind them that you’re there for them and stay connected even if they pull away.
- Stay Alert to Concerning Signs: If your loved one talks about harming themselves or expresses hopelessness, take it seriously. Encourage them to reach out to a mental health professional or someone they trust. If you ever believe they may be in immediate danger, contact local emergency services right away.
- Remember Self-Care: Supporting someone with depression can be emotionally draining. Make sure you’re getting rest, eating regularly, and seeking support for yourself when you need it. Engaging in self-care helps you show up more fully for the person you love.
What Happens if Depression Isn’t Treated?
When depression isn’t addressed, it can become more difficult to manage over time. Many people find that their world feels smaller, their energy is low, and everyday tasks feel overwhelming. In some cases, untreated depression can also contribute to unhealthy coping patterns.
The encouraging news is that depression is treatable. With the right support, you can:
- Explore the underlying factors affecting your well-being
- Develop tools to manage your symptoms
- Gain deeper insight into yourself
- Move toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life
And the most important part: taking steps toward that life can begin today.
Find Relief from Treatment-Resistant Depression Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments, TMS therapy may be right for you.
At Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, we understand how challenging it can be to make time for appointments in your busy life. The average TMS session after the initial visit generally lasts between 15 and 20 minutes. You can do it on your lunch break.
Here’s even better news: TMS is completely non-invasive, has minimal side effects, and requires no anesthesia. You’re up and back on your feet immediately after your sessions.
In addition to depression, we use TMS to treat:
- Anxiety
- Migraines
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Postpartum Depression
- Tinnitus
You deserve to live a life where depression isn’t in control. Reach out to Anew Era today to start your journey.
“The TMS Treatment results are the miracle I so desperately needed at this time in my life. I’m
completing my 8th week of treatments. I think of the following expression: ” If it’s too good to be true,
then it probably is” which usually applies but not here! It’s all good and very true for me!”
Lisa L., TMS patient
A miracle in my life.
Need help? Call us today:
(888) 503-1549
