As reported by the WHO the burden of depression across the globe at any one moment exceeds 300 million people. Studies of college students indicate depression to be as high as 75 percent. Some reports indicate that 50 percent of the population may be going in or out of depression at any one moment. It is unlikely that anyone will get through this life without being diagnosed or at least having symptoms of depression. First line therapy for many years has been prescription antidepressants though only one third of patients respond after initial treatment.
Multiple clinical trials have found benefit with transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS). tDCS is a neuromodulation technique that uses low amplitude direct current to enhance or suppress cortical excitability. Therapy involves placement of 2 electrodes on the scalp for about 20 minutes. When compared to antidepressants and transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), tDCS shows comparable results and in some studies it provides improved outcomes with antidepressants. Numerous studies have also confirmed this therapy to be a very safe therapy with no reported adverse effects. tDCS sessions last 20 minutes are easily implemented in a flexible at home therapy that is very safe and convenient.