How NeuroStar Advanced Therapy Could Help Improve Cognitive Function in Depression
Depression is more than just sadness. It often robs people of their ability to think, focus, and remember things. These issues, known as cognitive symptoms, can be just as disabling as the emotional weight of depression itself. Even when someone starts to feel emotionally better, mental problems can linger, making it hard to return to work, study, or manage daily life.
This is where NeuroStar Advanced Therapy, a form of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), may help. Originally developed to address treatment-resistant depression, NeuroStar is now being studied for its benefits in improving cognitive function. Let’s explore how this therapy might support brain health and cognitive clarity in individuals battling depression.
Understanding the Cognitive Effects of Depression
When people think of depression, they often picture sadness, hopelessness, or fatigue. But for many, cognitive symptoms like memory lapses, slower processing speed, or an inability to focus are just as troubling. These symptoms may include:
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Slowed thinking
- Difficulty recalling information
- Poor executive functioning (such as organizing or planning)
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, these issues affect a large portion of those with major depressive disorder (MDD), and in some cases, continue even after mood improves.
How Does NeuroStar Work?
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. For depression, the therapy targets the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), which is associated with mood regulation, decision-making, and executive function.
Each session lasts about 20 minutes and involves placing a small coil against the scalp. Magnetic pulses pass painlessly through the skull and stimulate nerve cells in the targeted brain region. Unlike medications that affect the entire brain and body, TMS is highly targeted and comes with fewer systemic side effects.
The Link Between Brain Stimulation and Cognition
Several studies have explored whether TMS improves not only mood but also cognitive function. One study published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that patients who responded to TMS showed significant improvements in attention and working memory. Another study in Neuropsychopharmacology suggested that stimulating the DLPFC may enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections, which is essential for learning, memory, and cognitive flexibility.
Many people with depression report “brain fog,” a term used to describe that hazy, mentally fatigued feeling that makes thinking difficult. NeuroStar TMS may help lift this fog by reactivating underperforming areas of the brain and supporting better communication between neural networks.
TMS vs. Traditional Treatments
Most people with depression are prescribed antidepressant medications. While helpful for many, these drugs often don’t fully relieve cognitive symptoms. Worse, some can cause issues like memory loss or mental slowing as side effects.
This is why TMS stands out. Unlike medications, NeuroStar therapy targets the brain directly without altering chemical levels throughout the entire body. This localized approach appears to reduce the risk of cognitive side effects and, in some cases, may improve thinking and focus over time.
Who Might Benefit Most?
TMS, including NeuroStar, is typically recommended for people who haven’t had success with at least one or two antidepressants. But emerging research suggests it could also be helpful earlier in treatment for those whose depression includes significant cognitive symptoms.
Teens and adults struggling with brain fog, attention issues, or difficulty managing tasks may see benefits. That said, TMS is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with metal implants in the head or a history of seizures may not be good candidates. A thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health provider is essential before starting treatment.
Cognitive Improvements Reported by Patients
Some patients describe subtle but meaningful changes after a few weeks of NeuroStar therapy:
- “I can finally read a book and remember what I read.”
- “My mind feels sharper.”
- “I’m more present in conversations.”
These improvements may not always happen immediately, but for many, cognitive clarity begins to return during or shortly after the course of treatment. Because sessions happen daily for several weeks, progress tends to build gradually.
The Role of Consistency
NeuroStar treatment requires consistency. Most protocols involve five sessions per week for four to six weeks. Sticking to this schedule matters, not just for mood improvements but also for cognitive benefits. Missing sessions or stopping early can interrupt the therapeutic effects and delay improvement.
Providers often compare the schedule to physical therapy. You wouldn’t expect to rebuild strength in a weakened muscle by going to the gym once a week. Similarly, your brain needs steady stimulation to heal and grow.
What Research Still Needs to Learn
While early evidence is promising, more studies are needed to pinpoint exactly how NeuroStar enhances cognitive performance. Current research is investigating:
- Whether certain patient groups (such as older adults or those with long-term depression) benefit more than others
- How long do cognitive benefits last after treatment ends
- Whether combining TMS with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other mental training enhances outcomes
What we do know is that brain activity in the prefrontal cortex improves with consistent NeuroStar therapy, and this region plays a vital role in focus, memory, and decision-making.
Other Ways to Support Brain Health During TMS
In addition to therapy, you can support your cognitive recovery in daily life by:
- Getting consistent sleep (aim for 7-9 hours per night)
- Staying physically active
- Limiting processed sugar and refined carbs
- Using mindfulness or meditation to improve mental clarity
- Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs, which can impair brain function
These healthy habits work synergistically with TMS to improve your ability to think clearly and maintain emotional balance.
Taking the First Step Toward Better Mental Health
If depression has left you feeling mentally foggy, forgetful, or stuck, TMS might offer a new path forward. While every journey is unique, research and real-world experience show that NeuroStar Advanced Therapy can improve not just how you feel emotionally but also how clearly you think.
Ready to see if NeuroStar is right for you? Reach out to Prime Behavioral Health in Southlake, TX at 817-778-8884 to learn more.