rTMS involves stimulation of an area of your brain using a pulsing magnet placed on the patient’s scalp. The magnet is designed to give a focused beam of magnetic energy inducing small electrical currents with the aim of altering brain function for therapeutic purposes.
The magnetic field produces only tiny electrical currents which then go on to activate cells within the brain, which (as believed) release neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain), which do play an important role/function in mood regulation.
Since depression is believed to be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters/chemicals in the brain, rTMS treatment helps restore the balance of these chemicals in the brain and goes on to relieve the symptoms of depression.
A Psychiatrist prescribes the treatment, which is usually administered in 15-45 minute sessions daily, or twice daily, for an initial course of 20 treatments. It may take a number of treatments for the patient to feel positive effects. As depression can relapse, most patients are recommended for follow up treatment plans.