FDA Approves TMS Treatment for Teen Depression

Having TMS now available to younger populations is an exciting step forward to help those struggling with teen depression, other depressive disorders, and those who are not responding to medications, says Nevada Mental Health Co-Founder Sid Khurana, MD.

“I think this is a big breakthrough,” he explains. “Depression treatment resistance is different if you are 45 years-old compared to 16 years-old. If the medication isn’t working and an adolescent loses six months, they could fail an AP class, or perhaps not even finish high school. This could drastically change their life trajectory.”

TMS Therapy for Depression

An estimated 50% of depressed patients struggle to receive the adequate treatment response they need from psychotherapeutics alone, including those struggling with teen depression. Having another tool available to more people may also bring a financial benefit, as MDD also significantly increases healthcare utilization and economic burden for all populations. 

“We simply want people to know this option is out there, that it’s evidence-based and that there is very solid data behind it,” Khurana says, “and if you are a parent whose child is struggling, it’s important to initiate the discussion with a mental health provider.”

The approval also brings hope that further research will reveal even younger populations and more conditions can benefit from TMS as a complementary therapy. Currently, it is FDA-approved for depression, OCD, smoking cessation, as well as anxiety.

“We’re excited, but for now, I think we have to stay tuned. But we certainly know there is research looking at how TMS may be beneficial for other conditions and age populations,” Khurana notes. With a variety of triggers and origins of teen depression, including social media, it’s also important to have a variety of treatment options.

MDD by the numbers:

• Affects 8.3% of adults, approximately 21 million people, in the U.S.
• Often occurs with other comorbidities, such as substance abuse, panic or social anxiety disorders and OCD
• Contributes an estimated $100 billion in annual costs to employers
• Patients with a family history of depression are at 2-3 times higher risk

 If you or a family member struggles with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, OCD or addiction, TMS may be an option for you. Please reach out to Nevada Mental Health to schedule a consultation.