Non-invasive brain treatment for depression

A Woy Woy private hospital is the first in the region to offer a non-invasive brain stimulating treatment for depression.

Brisbane Water Private Hospital is delivering repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of depression, according to CEO Ms Kathy Beverley.

"The method is particularly effective for patients who have tried a range of antidepressant medications without success," Ms Beverley said.

Carried out under the supervision of a psychiatrist, the non-invasive treatment takes around 45 minutes per session.

Patients sit in a comfortable chair under a magnetic device which induces small electrical currents that stimulate the superficial parts of the brain that control mood.

"Studies have evaluated the role of this stimulation in the treatment of depression since the mid-1990s and they have clearly shown that it is more effective than a placebo type of stimulation, especially in patients who have not responded well to antidepressant medication treatment," Ms Beverley said.

Brisbane Waters Private Hospital will be hosting a free community forum from 6pm to 8pm on Monday, March 20, for any member of the local community who would like to know more about the technology and treatment options.

Media release, 8 Mar 2017

Kathy Beverley, Brisbane Water Private Hospital