TMS for Seasonal Affective Disorder in Houston, TX
For some people, the change of seasons brings more than a shift in weather; it brings a recurring depression that returns each year. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a real, treatable form of depression. At Houston West TMS, board-certified psychiatrist and Brainsway Deep TMS specialist Dr. William K. Drell offers noninvasive Deep TMS for patients whose seasonal depression has not responded to other treatments.
Request a TMS AppointmentWhat are the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder?
SAD shares many symptoms with major depression but follows a seasonal rhythm. Common signs include:
- Persistent low mood that returns at the same time each year
- Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy
- Low energy and feeling sluggish or fatigued
- Oversleeping and difficulty waking
- Changes in appetite, often craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
What causes seasonal affective disorder?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but reduced sunlight is thought to disrupt the body’s internal clock, lower serotonin levels, and alter melatonin production. These changes can affect mood and energy. People with a family history of depression or those living in regions with long, dark winters may be more susceptible.
How does Deep TMS help seasonal affective disorder?
When light therapy, medication, and counseling do not provide enough relief, Deep TMS offers another evidence-based option. Deep TMS uses brief magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain regions involved in mood regulation, helping to relieve depressive symptoms regardless of their seasonal trigger. Because it is noninvasive and medication-free, it appeals to patients who prefer to avoid additional prescriptions. Treatment is performed on an outpatient basis, and Dr. Drell coordinates care with your current physician.
To learn more about how the technology works, explore our Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Brainsway Deep TMS pages, or read about related treatments such as TMS for Depression. You can also take our depression self-assessment.
If seasonal depression returns year after year, you do not have to simply endure it. Call Houston West TMS at (713) 464-4455 or request a consultation online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is seasonal affective disorder?
Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most often appearing in the fall and winter when daylight is reduced. It is a serious, treatable condition, not simply the winter blues.
Can Deep TMS treat seasonal affective disorder?
Yes. Deep TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain regions involved in mood, helping relieve depressive symptoms regardless of their seasonal trigger. It is an option when light therapy, medication, and counseling have not provided enough relief.
What causes seasonal affective disorder?
Reduced sunlight is thought to disrupt the body’s internal clock and affect serotonin and melatonin levels, which influence mood and energy. A family history of depression can increase susceptibility.
How is seasonal affective disorder usually treated?
SAD is commonly treated with light therapy, medication, and counseling. When these approaches do not provide enough relief, Deep TMS can be a noninvasive, medication-free alternative.
Is Deep TMS for SAD medication-free?
Yes. Deep TMS does not introduce medication into the body, which appeals to patients who prefer to avoid additional prescriptions. You can also continue your current treatments while receiving TMS.
How do I schedule a consultation for seasonal depression?
You can schedule a consultation by calling (713) 464-4455 or requesting an appointment online. Dr. Drell will evaluate your symptoms and determine whether Deep TMS is appropriate for you.