TMS & Suicide Awareness: Grounded Hope This Month
September is Suicide Awareness Month—a time not only to honor the lives we’ve lost, but to reflect on prevention, healing, and evidence-based treatments that can make a difference. These conversations can be hard. They can also be life-saving.
The Current Reality: Suicide in the U.S. and Washington
The most recent data paint a sobering picture:
- In 2023, the U.S. saw over 49,300 suicide deaths, holding near record highs with a rate of 14.2 per 100,000 people (CDC, AP News).
- In Washington State, the rate was 14.9 per 100,000 in 2022, a 12% rise over the past two decades (USAFacts).
Behind these statistics are individuals, families, and communities deeply affected. Suicide is never just a number—it’s a person, a story, and a ripple of grief that spreads far and wide.
What We Know About TMS and Suicidality
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment for depression. It is often used when medications haven’t helped. Research shows it can also reduce suicidal thoughts.
- A 2022 U.S. military trial found accelerated TMS cut suicidal ideation quickly. Risk dropped by about sevenfold and improvements lasted six months (Journal of ECT).
- A 2020 study of 711 patients showed nearly 47% improved, and only 11.7% worsened. Importantly, TMS did not increase suicide risk (Frontiers in Psychiatry).
- A 2022 meta-analysis found TMS lowered suicidal ideation in open-label studies, though results were smaller in controlled trials. More research is needed (Journal of Clinical Psychiatry).
These findings are hopeful—not because TMS is a cure-all, but because it adds another evidence-based option at a time when every life-saving tool matters.
Balancing Hope With Honesty
TMS is not a stand-alone solution. It works best as part of a comprehensive plan—including therapy, community support, medication, and lifestyle care.
Its value lies in offering hope when other treatments have failed. In practice, it has helped many regain connection and future focus.
The message of Suicide Awareness Month is broader than one treatment. It is about knowing help is out there, research is advancing, and no one is truly alone.
Call to Connect
If you or someone you love is struggling, reaching out is a powerful first step.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 anytime, day or night, to be connected with support.
Your story matters. Your life matters. And there is hope.