Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, outpatient treatment for depression that doesn’t involve anesthesia, sedation, or major downtime. But one of the most common questions we hear from new patients is: Can I drive after a TMS therapy session? The answer is yes—for most people, it’s completely safe.
According to Dr. Clayton L. Allison, M.D., a board-certified psychiatrist at NorTex Psychiatry, “TMS therapy is designed to allow patients to go about their day without major disruptions. In almost all cases, patients can safely drive themselves to and from their appointments.”
Here’s what you should know about TMS therapy aftercare, especially when it comes to driving and other daily activities.
Is Driving Safe After TMS?
For most patients, yes. Driving after a TMS session is typically safe because:
- There’s no anesthesia or sedation involved
- You remain fully alert during and after treatment
- Side effects are usually mild, such as scalp discomfort or minor headache
However, if you do experience any unusual dizziness, fatigue, or visual disturbances, it’s best to wait before driving and let your care team know.
Post-TMS Recovery Tips for Daily Life
Most people resume normal daily activities right after their session. Here’s what’s typically included in a TMS therapy aftercare plan:
- ✅ Drive after TMS session: Safe for most, unless advised otherwise by your provider
- ✅ Go back to work: Most patients return to work or school immediately
- ✅ Eat and drink normally: There are no dietary restrictions
- ✅ Exercise: Light to moderate activity is fine, but listen to your body
- ✅ Sleep: Get a full night’s rest to support recovery
- ❌ Avoid alcohol or drugs that affect brain function during treatment period
Brittany Huckaby, PHNP, explains, “TMS fits easily into your schedule. We want our patients to feel confident resuming their routine—driving, working, or picking up the kids—right after treatment.”
What to Do After TMS Therapy
To support recovery and get the best results:
- Stick to your TMS therapy aftercare plan
- Follow your TMS therapy patient instructions closely
- Stay consistent with treatment—daily sessions work best
- Keep a journal to track mood, sleep, and side effects
- Reach out to your provider if anything feels off
When to Use Caution with Driving
While rare, some patients may experience:
- Headache or scalp tenderness
- Mild lightheadedness
- Brief mood fluctuations
If this happens after your session, it’s okay to wait a bit or ask someone to drive you home. Always follow your provider’s TMS treatment daily activity guidelines.
How Soon Can You Resume Activities?
Here’s a quick recovery timeline for most patients:
- Immediately after session: You can drive, work, eat, and move around normally
- First few weeks: You may notice changes in energy or mood as your brain adjusts
- Ongoing: Most side effects fade, and routines feel more stable
Your care team will check in with you throughout treatment to make sure you’re feeling well and adjusting smoothly.
TMS Therapy and Outpatient Care
TMS is one of the few mental health treatments that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. It’s outpatient-based, doesn’t require recovery time, and has minimal interference with daily life. That’s what makes it such an appealing therapy option for people with depression who need a safe and flexible solution.
Take the Next Step
If you’re considering TMS therapy and want to know if it’s right for your lifestyle, NorTex Psychiatry is here to help. We’ll walk you through every part of your TMS therapy aftercare and make sure you feel confident getting back behind the wheel and back to your life. Contact us today to book a TMS consultation at our Allen, McKinney, Frisco, or Dallas location.
