Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive form of brain stimulation used in psychiatry to treat depression and other mental health conditions. For individuals considering TMS therapy, understanding its impact on daily activities—such as the ability to drive afterward—is essential.
This article outlines what to expect immediately after treatment, how it works, and whether it affects your ability to drive.
Understanding TMS Therapy
TMS therapy uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in specific areas of the brain associated with depression, particularly the prefrontal cortex. During a session, an electromagnetic coil is placed against the scalp, delivering repetitive magnetic pulses. These target the regions of the brain that regulate mood control and depression.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is an FDA-approved outpatient treatment for depression and certain other psychiatric conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder. It is often recommended for patients who have not found relief from antidepressants or talk therapy alone. As a widely used approach in both clinical and wellness settings, TMS therapy is valued for offering a non-invasive way to support mental health care.
What Happens During a TMS Session
A typical session lasts about 20 to 40 minutes. Patients remain awake, with no need for anesthesia. You may hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head as the magnetic coil delivers a dose of magnetic pulses.
Some patients describe the sensation as unusual but not painful, and many find it becomes less noticeable over time. The environment is typically calm, allowing you to relax while the treatment is underway. After the session, the transition back into daily routines is typically straightforward, with some individuals choosing to rest briefly while others proceed with their planned activities.
Driving After a TMS Session: What to Expect
One advantage of TMS therapy is that it requires no downtime. Most patients can resume daily activities, including driving, immediately after treatment. Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which involves anesthesia and requires a driver, TMS leaves you alert and capable of managing your own transportation.
This approach is not known to impair coordination, reflexes, or reaction time, as the magnetic fields target brain activity without affecting these functions. In clinical practice, many patients finish their sessions and continue with normal activities without restrictions from their healthcare providers.
Potential Side Effects That Could Affect Driving
While TMS is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects include mild scalp discomfort, headache, or facial muscle twitching during or after treatment. Most side effects are mild to moderate and resolve within hours.
If any side effects include blurred vision, significant dizziness, or other symptoms that could affect reaction time, it is best to avoid driving until they pass. Your provider will discuss the risks and benefits during your consultation so you know what to expect and how to plan your transportation if needed.
Factors to Consider Before Driving
Although most patients can drive after TMS treatment, individual experiences vary. The first week of treatment is when some people notice mild side effects as their brain adjusts to the stimulation. If you are undergoing a treatment series—often four to six weeks of daily sessions—it’s important to pay attention to how you feel after each appointment.
If you have co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or other psychiatric disorders, consider whether your symptoms affect concentration and alertness. Safety should always come first—if you feel unwell or distracted after a session, it’s best to wait before getting behind the wheel.
Final Thoughts from Quantum Wellness
For most patients, driving after TMS therapy is safe since the treatment does not involve anesthesia or medications that reduce alertness. Being mindful of how you feel—especially during the first week—can help you make confident, safe transportation decisions.
At Quantum Wellness, our experienced team tailors TMS therapy to each patient’s needs. We use advanced approaches to target specific areas of the brain and help improve depression symptoms. We guide you step-by-step and ensure you know what to expect so you can focus on recovery without unnecessary disruptions. Our goal is to create a supportive, comfortable environment where you feel informed, confident, and cared for every step of the way.
