Freddie’s journey: overcoming depression with TMS

For over a decade, Freddie battled severe, long-term depression—an illness that, as he describes, “takes most of one’s focus away from the external world and the opportunities it holds, and instead diverts this energy into self-analysis, self-criticism, and self-hatred.” Despite trying numerous treatments, from therapy and medication to lifestyle changes and exercise, his symptoms always returned, sometimes even more intensely than before. In this testimonial, he shares his experience of discovering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and the profound impact it had on his life.

 

Living with depression

Freddie describes his experience with depression as feeling like he was carrying a heavy, invisible weight—one that clouded his perception of himself, others, and the world around him. Everyday decisions became overwhelming, and a relentless inner dialogue questioned the point of it all.

“I suffered from a depression known as major depressive disorder; this is the label given if the duration is long term, like mine, and to varying degrees of severity,” he explains. “Despite this, I still strived to live a normal, happy, and healthy life… Nevertheless, underlying these 10 years of experiences was a persistent and destructive undercurrent of depression that seemed there to stay indefinitely.”

Even after years of effort to manage his condition, including professional help and personal coping strategies, nothing provided lasting relief. At a particularly low point, he found himself struggling with intrusive thoughts unlike anything he had ever experienced before.

The TMS experience and transformation

Within just a few weeks of treatment, Freddie noticed a profound shift. The heavy weight he had carried for years began to lift, bringing a new sense of mental clarity, emotional balance, and relief from the intrusive thoughts that had once consumed him.

He describes it as a complete reversal of symptoms—a transformation that made once-daunting tasks feel effortless and restored his ability to find joy, purpose, and excitement in life. Instead of being trapped in self-doubt, he now sees opportunities and new possibilities ahead.

Looking back, Freddie firmly believes that without TMS, he would have continued cycling through different treatments without truly addressing the root of his struggles. Instead, he found a solution that worked—a treatment that gave him lasting relief and a renewed sense of self.

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Freddie's story was featured in the Leatherhead Advertiser, Thursday, March 9, 2017