Innovative Head-Mounted Magnetic Device Shows Promise in Treating Depression

A study has shown that a head-mounted device generating a low-frequency magnetic field could potentially reduce depression symptoms, paving the way for noninvasive and convenient treatment options.

A head-mounted device that generates an ultra-low frequency magnetic field has shown promise in alleviating symptoms in four male patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Future trials with this device could provide a safe and noninvasive treatment option for depression. The findings were published in the Asian Journal of Psychiatry.

The presence of a magnetic field with frequencies typically ranging from 0 to 300 Hz is known as an Extremely Low Frequency Magnetic Environment (ELF-ELME). Although the interaction between magnetic fields and biological systems is complex and not well understood, this frequency is believed to stimulate mitochondria and induce their renewal. Since mitochondria generate energy, they offer a potential way to treat many of the symptoms associated with depression such as lethargy.