Why Mental Health Awareness Month Matters
Each May, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, a necessary time to reduce stigma, encourage open dialogue, and support those living with mental illness. It’s a national reminder that mental health deserves just as much attention as physical health. Many studies prove the link between improved mental health and lower risk of multiple medical conditions, including cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke, diabetes, and various cancers. Prioritizing self-care includes taking care of emotional and psychological well-being.
Mental and physical health are deeply connected. When one suffers, the other often does too. That’s why comprehensive mental health care is essential for achieving overall well-being. While many people benefit from traditional treatments like talk therapy and medication, others need more support. This is where TMS therapy, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, comes in. It’s a non-invasive, research-backed treatment that helps people with treatment-resistant depression, OCD, and other mental health conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorder and complex PTSD, improve their quality of life.
Mental Health Challenges Are More Common Than You Think
Let’s Talk About It: The Impact of Mental Illness Today
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five adults in the United States experiences a mental illness each year. Conditions like major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety affect millions of people. These challenges don’t just impact individuals, they affect loved ones, workplaces, and communities too.
Mental illness can take a toll emotionally, physically, and socially. Many people find relief through talk therapy, medication, or other forms of support, but for others, traditional options may not provide enough relief.
When Traditional Treatments Aren’t Enough
Understanding Treatment-Resistant Depression and TMS
Treatment-resistant depression occurs when a person doesn’t respond to multiple courses of antidepressants, psychotherapy, or other interventions. This can leave patients feeling frustrated and hopeless.
TMS treatment offers an alternative. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is FDA-approved and non-invasive. It uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex, which controls factors such as mood regulation. Unlike medication, TMS does not cause systemic side effects, and it does not require sedation or recovery time. That makes it a valuable addition to modern mental health treatment options.
The Benefits of TMS for Mental Health Disorders
How TMS Is Helping People Feel Like Themselves Again
TMS therapy is helping patients with MDD, OCD, and other disorders experience fewer depression symptoms and more stability in daily life. Many report improvements in energy, motivation, and overall quality of life.
It can be used alongside psychotherapy or medication management, depending on each person’s needs. With FDA approval and growing scientific support, TMS has become a trusted and effective part of mental health care, and has been found to be a great alternative for those who have been unable to tolerate medication trials.
While TMS was approved by the FDA in 2008 many insurances began covering the treatment in 2016 as a viable treatment option for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. Since 2016 there have been numerous advances within the treatment protocols, including a 3-minute theta burst option, and approval for adolescents 15-17 that may be covered by some insurances.
How to Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health
TMS at Sunrise Psychiatry: A Free Consultation and Personalized Plan
At Sunrise Psychiatry, we offer a free consultation to help determine whether TMS treatment is the right fit for you or a loved one. Our team works closely with each patient to build a personalized treatment plan that supports long-term mental health care.
If you’ve been considering new treatment options, Mental Health Awareness Month is a great time to explore what’s possible. You can also follow us on social media throughout May for education, resources, and real-life success stories.
Your Mental Health Matters—This Month and Every Month
Mental Health Awareness Month is just one piece of a larger conversation. Advocacy and care are important year-round. Access to the right treatment options, including TMS therapy, can help you or someone you care about move toward healing.
There’s no shame in facing mental health challenges. Reaching out is a sign of strength. Contact Sunrise Psychiatry today to learn more about TMS and how we can support your journey to overall well-being.