By Joseph Ward, student of the Master in Applied Neuroscience

Abstract

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has proven to be a promising intervention for depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicide ideation in the general population. Background information in this study highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by Australian military veterans, including high rates of depression, PTSD, and suicide ideation, particularly following traumatic service-related experiences. Veterans have elevated incidences of PTSD compared to the general population, making effective non-pharmacological treatments like TMS especially relevant for this group. This research paper attempts to discuss the use of TMS in treating depression, PTSD, and suicide ideation among Australian military veterans. The research paper utilises a systematic review and has an extended analysis of existing clinical trials. The review encompasses three specific trials on U.S. military veterans carried out over the past two years. Quantitative findings in these trials assessed the overall effectiveness of TMS and the procedure is of considerable help in the treatment of symptoms of depression in military veterans, leading to a reduction in symptoms for up to 58% of patients. TMS is also effective for military veterans with PTSD, with a reduction in symptoms seen by up 69% of patients. TMS significantly reduces suicide ideation in military veterans, with a reduction in suicide ideation in up to 66.28% of patients. The findings reveal that TMS has great promise for the effective treatment of depression, PTSD, and suicide ideation among Australian military veterans.

Keywords: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, neuroscience, military, veterans, depression, PTSD, suicide, mental health, Australia

Download the full Research Work: Ward, J. (2025). An Evaluation of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Treating Depression, PTSD and Suicide Ideation in Australian Military Veterans. SAERA