Drew Robinson: Using TMS to Tackle Depression and Redefine Resilience
Dr. Rayner graduated from the University of Utah School of Medicine and completed his residency training in adult psychiatry at the University of Nevada, Reno. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the clinical TMS society. He specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders,... more
Drew Robinson is a professional baseball player who survived a suicide attempt in April 2020. In the aftermath of the attempt, Robinson was left with a traumatic brain injury and ongoing struggles with depression. Despite the challenges he has faced, Robinson has become an advocate for mental health and resilience and has recently shared how he has been using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to treat his depression.
What is TMS?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. The treatment involves placing a small coil near the scalp, which delivers magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain. TMS has been approved by the FDA as a treatment for depression that has not responded to other forms of therapy.
Drew Robinson's Journey with Depression and TMS
Following his suicide attempt, Robinson underwent multiple surgeries and was left with a traumatic brain injury. He also continued to struggle with depression, which had plagued him for years. In an interview with ESPN, Robinson shared how TMS has been an important part of his mental health journey.
"I've been doing TMS therapy, which has been a game-changer for me," Robinson said. "I'm able to take myself off some of the medications that I was on that made me feel like a zombie. It's been a process, but it's definitely been something that's helped me get to where I am now."
Robinson's experience with TMS highlights the potential benefits of this treatment for depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks or even months to start working, TMS can produce rapid improvements in mood and other symptoms.
Redefining Resilience
Robinson's journey also highlights the importance of resilience in overcoming mental health challenges. Despite facing significant setbacks, he has continued to advocate for mental health and to find ways to manage his depression. TMS has been an important tool in this process, but it is just one part of a broader approach to mental wellness.
By sharing his story and experiences, Robinson is helping to redefine what it means to be resilient in the face of mental health challenges. Rather than hiding his struggles or pretending that everything is okay, he is openly discussing his mental health journey and the treatments that have helped him. In doing so, he is helping to break down stigma and encouraging others to seek the help they need.
Drew Robinson's journey with depression and TMS is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience and mental health advocacy. While TMS is not a cure-all for depression, it can be an effective treatment for some people who have not responded to other therapies. By sharing his story and experiences, Robinson is helping to raise awareness about TMS and other mental health treatments and to inspire others to seek help for their own struggles.
References:
- ESPN. Drew Robinson's second chance. Available at: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/31081021/how-former-mlb-player-drew-robinson-survived-suicide-attempt-redefined-resilience
- Clinic. Transcranial magnetic stimulation. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation/about/pac-20384625
- National Institute of Mental Health. Brain Stimulation Therapies. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/brain-stimulation-therapies/index.shtml
