rTMS Treatment for Depression

rTMS (repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a non-invasive, medication-free treatment used mainly for depression — especially depression that has not responded well to medication. It uses magnetic pulses to gently stimulate the brain regions involved in mood, without anaesthesia and without a hospital stay. Dr. Anindo Mitra (MBBS, MD Psychiatry, JIPMER), hands-on trained in rTMS at AIIMS New Delhi, assesses suitability in-person in Gurugram and online across India.

Who this is for

This page is for people with depression — particularly those who have not fully responded to antidepressants, cannot tolerate medication side effects, or prefer a non-medication option — and for those simply wanting to understand rTMS.

How rTMS works

A device placed against the scalp delivers focused magnetic pulses to a specific brain region involved in mood regulation. These pulses gently stimulate nerve-cell activity in circuits that are often underactive in depression. It is entirely non-invasive — nothing is implanted, and you remain fully awake and alert.

What a course involves

  • Sessions. rTMS is given as a course of repeated sessions, typically on weekdays over several weeks. Each session lasts a matter of minutes to around half an hour.
  • During a session. You sit in a chair, awake, while the device delivers pulses. You may feel a tapping sensation on the scalp and hear a clicking sound.
  • Afterwards. There is no anaesthesia and no recovery period — most people drive themselves home and return to normal activities immediately.

Benefits and who it suits

rTMS has good evidence for treating depression that has not responded to medication, and it is generally well tolerated. It suits people who want to avoid or add to medication, and those who cannot tolerate drug side effects. Whether it is right for you depends on your diagnosis and history, which Dr. Mitra assesses individually.

Risks and side effects

rTMS is generally safe and well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild — scalp discomfort or a headache during or after sessions, which usually settle. A very rare risk is a seizure, which is why careful screening (for example, for a history of seizures or certain implants) is done before starting. Suitability screening is part of the assessment.

Access and coordination

Dr. Mitra assesses whether rTMS is appropriate for you and coordinates or refers you to a setting where it is delivered. An online consultation is ideal for discussing suitability; the treatment itself is given in person.

In-person in Gurugram and online across India

Assessment and guidance are available in-person at Athena Behavioural Health, Sector 47, Gurugram, and online across India, in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil.

Safety and urgent help

rTMS is a planned treatment, not for emergencies. If you have severe symptoms or thoughts of self-harm, seek help via emergency services, your nearest hospital, or Tele-MANAS on 14416. This page is educational and does not replace an individual consultation.

Book a consultation

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Frequently asked questions

Does rTMS hurt? No, though you may feel a tapping sensation on the scalp and hear clicking. Some people get a mild headache or scalp discomfort that usually settles. No anaesthesia is needed.

How many sessions will I need? rTMS is a course of repeated sessions, usually on weekdays over several weeks. The exact number is individualised and discussed with you.

Is rTMS safe? Yes, it is generally safe and well tolerated. The main side effects are mild (headache, scalp discomfort). A seizure is a very rare risk, which is why careful screening is done beforehand.

Will I need time off work? Usually not. There is no anaesthesia or recovery period — most people return to normal activities straight after a session.

Is rTMS an alternative to antidepressants? It can be used instead of, or alongside, medication, depending on your situation. It is often considered when antidepressants have not fully worked. Suitability is assessed individually.