Anxiety and emotional distress do not always appear suddenly, and they do not discriminate based on status, success, or public image.

In a widely viewed 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Meghan Markle spoke candidly about her mental health struggles while living under sustained public scrutiny. Her story brought renewed attention to how anxiety can develop under chronic stress, and why access to meaningful support is critical.

By sharing her experience, Markle helped shift the mental health conversation away from stereotypes and toward a more honest understanding of how anxiety affects people navigating prolonged pressure, isolation, and emotional overload.

The significance of Meghan Markle speaking out about mental health

Public conversations around mental health often change when lived experiences are shared openly.

Markle’s interview marked a moment where anxiety, emotional distress, and unmet support needs were discussed on a global stage without minimization or dismissal.

Her willingness to speak openly helped validate experiences many people struggle to articulate, especially when symptoms build quietly over time rather than appearing all at once.

What Meghan Markle has said about anxiety

During the interview, Markle described feeling increasingly isolated and overwhelmed after restrictions were placed on her daily activities. She shared that she rarely left the house for extended periods and felt emotionally trapped, despite outward appearances suggesting stability and support.

She explained that when she reached out for help, she felt her concerns were not addressed in a meaningful way.

Over time, this lack of support intensified feelings of anxiety, loneliness, and emotional distress, illustrating how anxiety can escalate when stressors remain unaddressed.

Celebrity anxiety and mental health stigma

Mental health stigma often thrives in silence. When high-profile individuals speak openly, it can challenge misconceptions and encourage broader understanding.

How public figures influence mental health awareness

Public figures have a unique ability to influence how mental health is perceived. When someone widely recognized discusses anxiety, it can help others:

• Recognize symptoms they may have dismissed
• Feel less alone in their experiences
• Understand that anxiety is not a personal weakness

These conversations can lower barriers to seeking care and normalize mental health as part of overall health.

The impact of celebrity anxiety stories on stigma

Stories like Markle’s reinforce that anxiety can affect anyone, regardless of external success. They help shift the narrative from judgment to empathy and encourage earlier, more open discussions about mental well-being.

Anxiety among high-profile individuals

Living in the public eye often involves constant evaluation, limited privacy, and prolonged exposure to stress. Over time, these conditions can affect how the brain regulates emotion and stress.

For high-profile individuals, anxiety may be compounded by:

• Continuous media scrutiny
• Lack of control over personal boundaries
• Pressure to maintain composure under distress
• Social isolation despite public visibility

These stressors can influence brain networks involved in emotional regulation, increasing vulnerability to anxiety symptoms.

Understanding anxiety disorders

Anxiety exists on a spectrum. While situational stress is common, anxiety disorders involve persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life.

Common symptoms and anxiety attacks explained

Anxiety symptoms can vary widely but often include:

• Persistent worry or fear that feels difficult to control
• Restlessness or feeling constantly “on edge”
• Racing thoughts or mental overload
• Physical tension, headaches, or muscle tightness
• Rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath
• Difficulty concentrating or sleeping

Anxiety attacks may involve sudden surges of fear accompanied by physical symptoms, even when no immediate danger is present.

When does anxiety become a mental health condition?

When symptoms persist, worsen, or disrupt daily functioning, anxiety may reflect an underlying mental health condition.

Professional evaluation can help determine appropriate care options and reduce the likelihood that symptoms will become more entrenched over time.

Anxiety treatment options available today

Anxiety care is often most effective when tailored to the individual and the underlying contributors to their symptoms.

Therapy, medication, and lifestyle approaches

Common treatment options include:

• Psychotherapy approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Medication when clinically appropriate
• Stress-management strategies and sleep regulation
• Lifestyle adjustments that support nervous system balance

These approaches can be effective, especially when symptoms are addressed early.

When traditional anxiety treatments fall short

Some individuals continue to experience anxiety despite therapy or medication. In these cases, symptoms may reflect challenges in brain network regulation rather than purely psychological stressors. This has led to growing interest in brain-based treatment approaches that focus on how neural circuits function.

fMRI-guided TMS therapy for anxiety: A precision-based approach

Advances in neuroscience have made it possible to approach anxiety treatment through a more individualized, brain-based lens.

Rather than relying solely on symptom descriptions, fMRI-guided TMS therapy focuses on how anxiety affects functional communication within the brain.

How fMRI-guided TMS therapy works

fMRI-guided TMS therapy is a non-invasive treatment that combines transcranial magnetic stimulation with functional MRI–based computational brain mapping.

Functional MRI identifies patterns of brain connectivity involved in emotional regulation, threat response, and stress processing.

Using this data, stimulation targets are selected based on each individual’s unique neural network activity rather than standardized anatomical locations.

Magnetic pulses are then delivered to these specific circuits to support healthier communication between brain regions associated with anxiety.

Is fMRI-guided TMS effective for anxiety disorders?

Research suggests anxiety is linked to disrupted communication within specific brain networks involved in stress and emotional regulation.

A clinical study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that fMRI-guided TMS was associated with meaningful reductions in anxiety symptoms for many participants when stimulation targets were selected using functional MRI.

Outcomes vary between individuals, but many patients explore this approach when symptoms persist despite traditional care or when they are seeking a non-medication, brain-based option.

At Neurotherapeutix, treatment planning is always guided by individual brain connectivity patterns and clinical evaluation, ensuring care remains personalized and data-informed.

Mental health advocacy and seeking help

Public discussions about anxiety help reinforce an important message: emotional distress deserves care and attention. Seeking support is not a sign of failure; it is a proactive step toward stability and long-term well-being.

Anxiety care at Neurotherapeutix in NYC

Neurotherapeutix offers personalized, brain-based anxiety care using fMRI-guided TMS therapy.

Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, our clinic combines advanced neuroimaging with expert-led, compassionate care to support mental health at the circuit level.

If you are exploring advanced anxiety treatment options in New York City, you can request an appointment or contact us directly to learn more about whether this approach may be appropriate for you.

Frequently asked questions about anxiety and TMS

Can TMS therapy help anxiety without medication?

fMRI-guided TMS therapy is non-invasive and does not involve medication. It may be explored as a standalone option or alongside other forms of care, depending on individual needs.

Is TMS therapy available in New York City?

Yes. Neurotherapeutix is located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and is the only clinic in the country that offers fMRI-guided TMS therapy.

How long does TMS treatment for anxiety take?

Treatment length varies. Sessions are delivered over multiple weeks to support gradual changes in brain connectivity.

Do celebrity mental health stories encourage treatment?

Public stories can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to recognize symptoms and seek professional support earlier.

When should someone seek professional anxiety care?

If anxiety symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily life, professional evaluation can help guide appropriate next steps.

Public conversations about substance use and mental health often change when well-known individuals speak openly about their experiences. Visibility can reduce shame, increase understanding, and help others feel less alone in their own struggles.

Model and actress Cara Delevingne has shared that she reached a point where she needed help and entered rehab, describing recovery as an ongoing process rather than a single turning point. Her openness helped bring attention to the close connection between substance use and mental health.

Her story reflects an important reality: addiction rarely exists on its own. It is often linked to underlying mental health challenges that require thoughtful, long-term care.

What Cara Delevingne has shared about rehab

Delevingne has spoken publicly about realizing that her lifestyle was no longer sustainable and that she needed to step away to focus on her health. In a 2023 Vogue interview, she emphasized that, for her,  seeking treatment was not about weakness but about self-awareness and survival.

By acknowledging the need for support, she highlighted a message many people struggle to accept: recovery often begins with recognizing when something is no longer working.

Why her story sparked public mental health conversations

When a public figure talks openly about rehab, it challenges the idea that addiction and mental health struggles only affect certain people.

Delevingne’s story resonated because it showed that success, visibility, and access do not protect someone from emotional distress.

Her honesty helped normalize conversations about treatment, recovery, and the importance of addressing mental health alongside substance use.

Celebrity rehab stories and mental health awareness

Stories shared by celebrities often reach people who may not otherwise engage with mental health education. These moments can create space for more open and compassionate conversations.

How high-profile stories reduce mental health stigma

When public figures speak openly, it can help others:

• Recognize the signs of distress they may have ignored
• Feel less isolated in their experiences
• Understand that addiction and mental health challenges are medical and psychological issues, not personal failures

These conversations can make it easier for individuals to consider seeking help.

The influence of celebrities on seeking treatment

High-profile stories can encourage people to explore care earlier, rather than waiting until symptoms become overwhelming. Seeing recovery framed as a process, not a dramatic event, helps set more realistic expectations for healing.

The link between substance use and mental health disorders

Substance use and mental health conditions frequently overlap.

Anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders can increase vulnerability to substance use, while ongoing use can worsen emotional regulation and stress response.

This two-way relationship means that addressing only substance use without considering mental health may leave key contributors untreated.

Mental health treatment for addiction recovery

Effective recovery often involves coordinated care that addresses both emotional health and behavioral patterns.

Treatment plans may include therapy, medical support, lifestyle changes, and ongoing monitoring.

For some individuals, especially those with persistent symptoms, brain-based approaches may be explored as part of a broader care plan.

Understanding fMRI-guided TMS therapy for mental health

fMRI-guided TMS therapy is a non-invasive, brain-based treatment approach that focuses on how specific brain networks function.

Rather than relying only on symptom descriptions, this method uses functional MRI to map individual brain connectivity patterns involved in mood, impulse control, and emotional regulation.

How fMRI-guided TMS therapy works for mental health disorders

Functional MRI identifies areas of the brain that may be communicating inefficiently. Using this data, transcranial magnetic stimulation is guided to specific circuits rather than standard locations.

Targeted magnetic pulses are delivered to support healthier communication between brain regions involved in stress regulation, decision-making, and emotional balance.

Is fMRI-guided TMS effective for depression and co-occurring conditions?

Research published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that disrupted brain circuits play a role in both mood disorders and substance-related behaviors. Clinical studies have explored TMS to influence craving, emotional regulation, and executive function, though its role in addiction recovery is still being studied.

Outcomes vary between individuals, but some patients explore this approach when symptoms persist despite traditional care or when they are seeking a non-medication, brain-based option.

Common TMS therapy side effects explained

fMRI-guided TMS therapy is generally well tolerated. When side effects occur, they are typically mild and temporary.

Commonly reported effects may include:

• Scalp discomfort during treatment
• Mild headache after sessions
• Temporary fatigue

Serious side effects are rare, and patients are carefully screened before starting treatment.

What to expect during and after TMS treatment

fMRI-guided TMS therapy is delivered over a series of sessions, most often scheduled several times per week across multiple weeks. Each session is relatively short, and patients remain awake and alert throughout, with no anesthesia or recovery period required.

Before treatment begins, patients undergo functional MRI–based computational brain mapping. This advanced imaging process analyzes how different regions of the brain communicate with one another at rest and during specific activity patterns.

Rather than focusing only on brain structure, computational mapping identifies functional connectivity patterns, highlighting areas where neural networks may be underactive, overactive, or misfiring.

Using this data, clinicians design a personalized stimulation plan that targets the specific brain circuits involved in mood regulation, impulse control, stress response, or emotional processing.

During treatment, magnetic pulses are delivered to these mapped targets to help support healthier communication between brain regions. Sessions are repeated over time to encourage gradual, lasting changes in neural connectivity.

Progress is monitored regularly through clinical assessments and, when appropriate, follow-up brain imaging. Because computational brain data guide treatment, adjustments can be made if connectivity patterns shift or symptoms change. This allows care to remain flexible, personalized, and responsive rather than fixed.

After completing treatment, patients often notice gradual improvements in emotional regulation, mental clarity, or symptom intensity.

Outcomes vary among individuals, but the goal of fMRI-guided TMS therapy is to support long-term brain network stability by addressing dysfunction at the circuit level rather than just surface-level symptoms.

TMS therapy as part of mental health recovery

fMRI-guided TMS therapy is not a replacement for comprehensive care. It is often considered as one component of a broader mental health strategy.

When is TMS considered in recovery planning?

This approach may be explored when:

• Mental health symptoms persist despite therapy or medication
• Medication is not well-tolerated
• A patient prefers a non-invasive, non-medication option
• Brain-based data may help guide personalized treatment planning

Mental health care at Neurotherapeutix in NYC

Neurotherapeutix provides personalized mental health and neurological services using fMRI-guided TMS therapy to support individuals with complex mental health needs.

Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, our clinic combines advanced neuroimaging with expert-led, compassionate care. Treatment planning is guided by individual brain connectivity patterns and clinical evaluation, ensuring care remains personalized and data-informed.

If you are exploring advanced mental health treatment options in New York City, you can request an appointment or contact our team to learn more.

Frequently asked questions about rehab, mental health, and TMS

Can mental health disorders contribute to substance use?

Yes. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and trauma can increase vulnerability to substance use, especially when symptoms are unmanaged.

Is TMS therapy used alongside addiction recovery?

TMS may be explored as part of a broader mental health plan, especially when emotional regulation or mood symptoms remain challenging.

Are TMS therapy side effects long-lasting?

No. Most side effects are temporary and resolve shortly after sessions.

Who is a good candidate for TMS mental health treatment?

Candidates are determined through clinical evaluation and brain imaging to ensure the approach is appropriate and safe.

When should someone seek mental health treatment in NYC?

If symptoms interfere with daily life, worsen over time, or feel difficult to manage alone, professional evaluation can help guide next steps.

Burnout doesn’t just affect people who are overworked. It often affects the people who seem like they have it all together: the high achievers, top executives, and professionals who perform at the highest level every day.

If you’re feeling mentally drained despite your success, you’re not alone, and there’s a path forward.

At Neurotherapeutix in New York City, we’re seeing more professionals seek help for high-achiever burnout.

Our fMRI-guided neuromodulation therapy, including TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), offers a targeted, non-invasive treatment designed to restore brain balance, reduce mental exhaustion, and support long-term recovery.

In this blog, we’ll discuss neuromodulation and the benefits it brings forth for high-achiever burnout. Continue reading below.

What is High-Achiever Burnout?

High-achiever burnout is a unique form of chronic stress and emotional fatigue that stems from relentless performance expectations.

Unlike general burnout, it’s often masked by productivity, perfectionism, and external success.

Signs of Burnout in High Performers

Burnout can creep in slowly. For high achievers, the symptoms are often dismissed or misinterpreted. Common signs include:

• • Decreased focus and cognitive sharpness.
• • Emotional detachment from work or personal relationships.
• • Constant fatigue, even after rest.
• • Loss of motivation or passion for goals.
• • Difficulty making decisions.
• • Increased irritability or anxiety.

Common Causes of Executive and Professional Burnout

Common drivers of high-achiever burnout often go unnoticed until they become overwhelming, including:

• • Chronic stress without meaningful recovery.
• • Perfectionism and internalized pressure to exceed expectations.
• • Lack of boundaries between work and personal life.
• • Isolation or lack of emotional support.
• • Constant problem-solving in high-stakes environments.

Burnout vs. General Stress and Fatigue

Stress is typically temporary and manageable. Burnout, however, reflects a deeper neurological toll on the brain, often resulting in mental exhaustion, mood imbalance, and cognitive fog that doesn’t improve with rest alone.

The Hidden Cost of Performance Pressure

High achievers often ignore signs of burnout, pushing through fatigue and emotional strain to maintain success.

The long-term cost of untreated burnout can be profound, impacting your mental clarity, physical health, relationships, and leadership effectiveness.

Chronic mental exhaustion impairs executive functioning, reducing your ability to focus, make decisions, and lead with confidence.

While traditional self-care tools, like mindfulness apps or scheduled time off, can provide temporary relief, they don’t address the deeper, brain-based patterns driving burnout.

What is Neuromodulation Therapy?

Neuromodulation therapy is an advanced, non-invasive treatment that targets and alters dysfunctional brain activity.

Using gentle electrical or magnetic stimulation helps regulate neural circuits involved in mood, cognition, and stress response, making it a promising option for individuals experiencing burnout, depression, anxiety, or cognitive fatigue.

At its core, neuromodulation doesn’t mask symptoms. Instead, it works with the brain’s natural rhythms to restore balance and functionality where it’s most needed.

How Neuromodulation Works

When chronic stress overwhelms the brain, specific regions, particularly those responsible for emotion regulation, decision-making, and focus, can become underactive or misaligned.

Neuromodulation uses targeted stimulation to re-engage these regions and improve communication between key neural networks.

At Neurotherapeutix, this process is refined through fMRI-guided TMS therapy, an advanced approach that uses brain imaging to pinpoint areas of impaired activity. This precision allows for tailored, more effective treatments with measurable outcomes over time.

Types of Neuromodulation

There are several forms of neuromodulation, each with its own method of delivering stimulation:

• • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): Uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions. At Neurotherapeutix, this is enhanced by fMRI-based computational brain mapping for personalized treatment.
• • Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS): A form that applies low electrical currents through scalp electrodes to influence brain activity.
• • Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): A more invasive method that stimulates the vagus nerve to regulate brain function.

Among these, fMRI-guided TMS therapy stands out as the most targeted and data-driven approach, particularly effective for mental health and burnout-related challenges.

Is It Safe? Clinical Backing for Neuromodulation

Neuromodulation therapies, including TMS, are FDA-cleared and widely studied.

Neuromodulation options are safe, well-tolerated, and free from the systemic side effects often associated with medication.

TMS sessions typically last 20–30 minutes, with most individuals undergoing 20–40 sessions over the course of treatment.

In clinical trials, neuromodulation has shown improvements in mood, cognitive performance, and sleep—three areas often disrupted by chronic burnout and stress.

In fact, according to a 2021 pilot study, healthcare professionals receiving 12 sessions of repetitive TMS (rTMS) targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) reported significant reductions in occupational stress.

This was measured using tools like the Personal Strain Questionnaire (PSQ) and content from the Occupational Stress Inventory. Compared to a placebo group, participants also showed improvements in mood and anxiety levels.

Neuromodulation for Burnout Recovery

Neuromodulation is emerging as a powerful, brain-based solution for high achievers dealing with burnout, executive dysfunction, and chronic stress.

By targeting the neurological root of performance fatigue, neuromodulation offers a proactive approach that goes beyond coping; it initiates healing.

Rather than masking symptoms, neuromodulation works by stimulating underactive or dysregulated areas of the brain associated with emotional regulation, focus, and motivation.

For those who feel like their brain is “stuck in overdrive,” this therapy can restore balance, improve clarity, and rebuild the cognitive resilience necessary for long-term recovery.

Why Top Performers Are Embracing Brain Stimulation

Many high-performing professionals resist traditional mental health treatments due to stigma, time constraints, or lack of results.

Neuromodulation offers a discreet, clinically-backed alternative that respects their pace and ambitions. Neuromodulation is:

• • Fast, non-invasive, and drug-free.
• • Custom-mapped to your unique brain function using advanced fMRI-guided targeting.
• • Aligned to support peak cognitive performance while addressing underlying burnout patterns.

With increasing scientific validation, more CEOs, doctors, lawyers, and creatives are turning to neuromodulation to recover and come back stronger.

TMS Therapy for Executive Burnout

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is one of the most effective forms of neuromodulation used in executive burnout recovery.

At Neurotherapeutix, we elevate TMS therapy with fMRI-guided precision, mapping your brain to pinpoint precisely where stimulation is needed.

TMS sessions are:

• • 20–30 minutes each.
• • Completed 3–5 times per week.
• • Part of a 20–40 session treatment plan.

Over time, patients often report:

• • Sharper decision-making.
• • Improved emotional control.
• • Reduced stress reactivity.
• • Better sleep and energy regulation.

Unlike generalized treatments, fMRI-guided TMS therapy delivers results by engaging the brain’s exact stress-related circuits.

Neuromodulation vs. Medication-Based Treatments

Medication-based solutions for burnout and stress often come with limitations, including:

• • Systemic side effects (fatigue, weight gain, or GI issues).
• • Trial-and-error dosing.
• • Risk of dependency or tolerance.
• • Lack of precision.

Neuromodulation, particularly fMRI-guided TMS, offers:

• • Targeted brain stimulation without systemic involvement.
• • No need for daily medication or long-term pharmaceutical use.
• • Real-time feedback using imaging data to track progress.

For many high achievers seeking control, clarity, and minimal interruption to daily life, neuromodulation delivers a safer, more innovative approach.

Is Neuromodulation Right for You?

You don’t have to wait until burnout becomes unmanageable. Neuromodulation may help you regain balance if you’re experiencing:

• • Emotional detachment or irritability.
• • Trouble concentrating or making decisions.
• • Sleep issues despite exhaustion.
• • A sense of numbness or decreased motivation.
• • Loss of enjoyment in work or success.

At Neurotherapeutix, we specialize in working with high-functioning individuals who are ready to take a brain-based, results-driven approach to healing.

Personalized Burnout Treatment at Neurotherapeutix in NYC

Located in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Neurotherapeutix offers a concierge-level experience tailored for professionals, executives, and creatives seeking recovery from burnout.

Here, we use:

• • Patented fMRI-guided technology to create individualized TMS protocols.
• • Advanced fMRI-based computational brain mapping to track progress and outcomes.
• • A non-judgmental, client-centered approach to healing.

You’ve pushed through for everyone else. Now let us help you reset—precisely, safely, and with long-term results in mind.

Request an appointment or contact us to learn more about how neuromodulation can support your recovery.

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is one of the most misunderstood conditions in modern neurology. Its symptoms are real and often life-altering, even when traditional brain scans show no visible abnormalities.

At Neurotherapeutix, we recognize the neurological basis of FND and offer advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options that go beyond conventional care.

In this blog, we’ll explore what FND is, how it’s diagnosed, and how fMRI-guided TMS therapy may support recovery for those living with this complex condition.

What is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)?

FND refers to a group of neurological symptoms that present without identifiable damage to the brain’s structure.

These symptoms, ranging from movement difficulties to seizures, are caused by functional disruptions in how the brain sends and receives signals.

The result? Real physical and cognitive symptoms that interfere with daily life.

How FND Differs from Other Neurological Conditions

Unlike neurological diseases caused by injury or degeneration, FND is a condition that arises from network-level miscommunication within the brain.

FND is not a sign of faking, weakness, or psychological instability. It’s a disorder of function, and with the right tools, brain function can be restored.

Common Functional Neurological Disorder Symptoms

FND symptoms can vary significantly but often include:

• • Limb weakness or paralysis.
• • Functional tremors or abnormal movements.
• • Non-epileptic seizures (also called dissociative or psychogenic seizures).
• • Speech or swallowing difficulties.
• • Balance issues or dizziness.
• • Cognitive fog and chronic fatigue.

Symptoms may come and go, and many individuals struggle for years without a clear diagnosis or effective support.

What Causes Functional Neurological Disorder?

A combination of factors typically causes FND. These may include:

• • A triggering event such as illness, injury, or trauma.
• • Emotional stress or psychological strain.
• • Pre-existing vulnerabilities in brain connectivity or emotional regulation.

These events can lead to maladaptive changes in the brain’s functional networks, disrupting motor, sensory, and cognitive processes even in the absence of visible, structural damage.

Tools and Tests Used for FND Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made based on clinical signs and validated criteria.

Positive diagnostic signs (such as Hoover’s sign for limb weakness) help distinguish FND from other neurological conditions.

Imaging studies may rule out structural causes but often appear normal.

At Neurotherapeutix, we take diagnosis seriously, leveraging both clinical expertise and functional neuroimaging to gain a precise understanding of each patient’s unique brain function.

Treatment Options for Functional Neurological Disorder

Many FND treatment plans begin with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

These approaches help re-establish standard movement patterns, improve self-regulation, and reduce the impact of stress on symptoms.

Limitations of Standard FND Treatments

For many, therapy alone doesn’t fully resolve symptoms, especially when brain network dysfunction remains active.

Some patients also struggle with the stigma of an “invisible” disorder, which can worsen symptoms and reduce treatment engagement.

Emerging Approaches to Managing FND

Recent advances in neuroscience are expanding the therapeutic toolkit.

Novel approaches include:

• • Trauma-informed therapy models that address early-life stress and emotional regulation.
  
• • Mind-body interventions including neurofeedback and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
  
• • Functional neurorehabilitation, combining physical retraining with behavioral therapy to rewire maladaptive neural patterns.

These emerging therapies reflect a growing understanding that FND is a neurobiological condition, not psychological in origin, and therefore requires treatment approaches grounded in neuroscience.

This evolution in care has led researchers and clinicians to explore brain-directed therapies like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a promising next step.

In fact, a 2020 trial published in the National Library of Medicine notes that preliminary findings suggest that TMS may ease symptoms of FND, beyond movement-related presentations.

This study found that around 10% of individuals with FND improved following TMS treatment, affirming the need to explore this promising intervention further.

Can TMS Help Functional Neurological Disorders?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that uses magnetic pulses to target specific brain circuits.

While TMS is FDA-cleared for depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder, its potential application for FND is an area of active clinical research.

At Neurotherapeutix, we take this a step further with fMRI-guided TMS therapy. This advanced method allows us to precisely identify and stimulate dysfunctional brain networks contributing to FND symptoms—whether motor, sensory, or cognitive.

Why TMS may benefit FND clients:

• • TMS may help restore normal communication between misfiring brain regions.
  
• • It supports neuroplasticity, enabling the brain to relearn more adaptive patterns of function.
  
• • It is non-invasive and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects and no need for anesthesia or downtime.

Though more large-scale studies are underway, early findings and clinical observations suggest that TMS can reduce the severity and frequency of functional symptoms, especially when other treatments have failed.

For many clients, this opens a new path toward lasting relief and improved quality of life.

Expert-Led Diagnostics and Patient Support for Functional Neurological Disorder in NYC

At Neurotherapeutix, we recognize the frustration many clients experience on the path to an FND diagnosis.

Symptoms are often dismissed, misunderstood, or misattributed, delaying meaningful treatment and prolonging distress.

We’re changing that experience.

Our team uses advanced diagnostic imaging, including fMRI-based computational brain mapping, to detect subtle disruptions in brain activity that traditional scans may miss. This empowers us to deliver precise, personalized TMS therapy that’s guided by real-time brain function, not guesswork.

If you or a loved one is living with FND, we encourage you to reach out. Relief is possible, and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Request an appointment or contact our team to learn more about diagnostic options and fMRI-guided TMS therapy for FND.

As research in neuroscience and mental health continues to evolve, one connection is becoming increasingly clear: inflammation in the brain, or neuroinflammation, plays a significant role in how we feel, think, and heal.

From depression and anxiety to long COVID brain fog, understanding this underlying cause may hold the key to new, more effective treatments.

At Neurotherapeutix, we specialize in identifying and treating the root causes of mental health struggles. In this post, we’ll explore what neuroinflammation is, how it contributes to depression and cognitive issues, and how we can help eliminate your symptoms for good.

What Is Neuroinflammation?

​​Neuroinflammation refers to inflammation within the brain and central nervous system.

Infections, autoimmune responses, traumatic brain injury, and prolonged psychological stress can trigger it.

In recent years, post-viral brain inflammation, particularly after COVID-19, has become a growing concern.

Does Inflammation Cause Brain Fog?

Yes, many experts believe that brain fog is one of the clearest signs of neuroinflammation.

When inflammation disrupts neural pathways, it becomes more challenging for the brain to process information efficiently, resulting in slower thinking and poorer memory.

Inflammation in the Brain and Its Impact on Function

Inflammation interferes with normal brain signaling. It disrupts communication between neurons and may impair the brain’s ability to regulate mood, memory, and focus. Over time, this can manifest as chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or emotional dysregulation.

The Role of the Immune System in Neuroinflammation

Your body’s immune system is designed to protect you, but when activated persistently, such as in cases of long COVID or chronic stress, it can begin to attack healthy brain tissue.

This ongoing immune response contributes to symptoms like brain fog and depression.

How Neuroinflammation Affects Brain Chemistry

Neuroinflammation can alter the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are crucial for regulating mood. When inflammation disrupts these chemicals, symptoms of depression and anxiety often follow.

Symptoms of Brain Inflammation

Common signs of neuroinflammation include:

• Persistent brain fog or mental sluggishness.
• Low mood or depression.
• Memory problems.
• Trouble focusing or making decisions.
• Fatigue or low energy.

Left untreated, chronic brain inflammation may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases and long-term mental health issues. That’s why early intervention and ongoing care are essential.

The Link Between Neuroinflammation and Depression

Multiple studies now show that inflammation in the brain can lead to depression, even in people without a history of mental illness.

This is especially true for individuals recovering from viral infections like COVID-19, who may experience inflammation-driven symptoms such as mood changes, sleep issues, or apathy.

What Causes Long COVID Brain Fog?

COVID-19 can affect the brain’s blood flow, oxygen supply, and immune response.

In some individuals, these changes persist well after infection, resulting in what’s often called “long COVID brain fog.” Symptoms include confusion, forgetfulness, and mental fatigue.

Depression and Anxiety After COVID-19

Many long COVID patients report increased depression and anxiety, which researchers now believe may be directly linked to neuroinflammation. The stress of illness, combined with biological changes in the brain, can significantly affect mental wellness.

How Neurotherapeutix NYC Can Help With Personalized Inflammation Support

At Neurotherapeutix, we offer advanced fMRI-guided TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy to more precisely target the root causes of neuroinflammation. This non-invasive technique uses functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to map your brain activity and guide magnetic stimulation to the areas most impacted by inflammation or dysfunction.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) reduces brain inflammation by changing how brain cells and immune signals behave. It works in several ways:

1. Balances brain activity – TMS targets specific brain areas to normalize overactive circuits that can trigger inflammation.
2. Lowers harmful inflammation signals – It reduces pro-inflammatory molecules like IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α.
3. Boosts protective signals – It increases anti-inflammatory and brain-supportive factors like IL-10 and BDNF.
4. Calms immune cells in the brain – TMS reduces activity in microglia and astrocytes, the brain’s immune-like support cells.
5. Regulates excitatory receptors – It decreases glutamate receptors (mGluR5 and NMDAR2B), which are linked to inflammation when overactive.
6. Helps beyond the brain – TMS also affects nerve cells in the spine and peripheral nerves, reducing inflammation and nerve sensitivity.

In short: TMS helps the brain shift from an inflamed state to a more balanced, healing one — both by calming immune signals and improving how brain networks function.

We are the only clinic in the United States offering this patented approach. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet your individual needs.

Whether you’re struggling with post-COVID depression, brain fog, or persistent mental fatigue, we’re here to help.

Learn more about fMRI-guided TMS therapy, or contact us to schedule a consultation.

If you’ve been feeling “wired but tired,” struggling to focus, or getting irritable after a long day of screens, you’re not imagining it. Many people are dealing with brain fatigue—a form of mental exhaustion that can look a lot like anxiety.

At Neurotherapeutix, we understand how overwhelming it can feel when your mind never seems to slow down. Brain fatigue can take a toll on your focus, mood, work, relationships, and sleep. The good news is that there are ways to reduce cognitive overload, and when symptoms don’t improve, personalized options may help support how your brain communicates.

What is brain fatigue, and is it so common?

Brain fatigue, also called cognitive fatigue, is a state of mental weariness in which the brain’s ability to concentrate, regulate emotions, and make decisions begins to dip.

 In the AI era, the challenge isn’t just screen time, it’s constant high-volume input and always-on expectations.

A helpful way to think about it: your brain has a “bandwidth limit.” When digital life repeatedly pushes past that limit, the result can be fog, overwhelm, and burnout.

Common brain fatigue symptoms

People describe brain fatigue in different ways, but common symptoms include:

• Mental fog, slower thinking, or difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or feeling emotionally “thin-skinned.”
• Headaches or eye strain
• Sleep disruption, especially trouble winding down
• Low motivation and reduced productivity
• Feeling overwhelmed by simple tasks or decisions

Brain fatigue vs anxiety: why can they feel the same?

Brain fatigue and anxiety often overlap because both can activate the body’s stress response. When your nervous system is repeatedly “pinged” by alerts, news, and rapid context switching, it can create a baseline of tension that feels like worry, even if nothing is “wrong.”

If you’re asking, “Why do I feel anxious when I’m just tired?” that question alone is a clue you may be dealing with cognitive overload, not just emotional anxiety.

How AI-driven life can contribute to cognitive overload

AI tools can be genuinely helpful, but they also increase the volume, speed, and personalization of what reaches you.

Recommendation engines, auto-play feeds, and algorithmic notifications are designed to keep attention engaged.

Over time, that can mean fewer mental “quiet moments,” which are essential for memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and resilience.

Common drivers of digital brain fatigue

When your brain never gets a break, even simple tasks can start to feel overwhelming. These everyday habits and pressures often play a role:

• Switching between tabs, apps, and conversations all day
• Frequent notifications that interrupt your focus
• Feeling pressure to respond right away at work or socially
• Constant streams of news, email, and social content
• Late-night screen time that disrupts your natural sleep rhythms

 Practical, realistic steps to reduce brain fatigue

You don’t need to abandon technology to protect your mind. Small, consistent changes often help the brain recover its footing.

1.   Reduce cognitive load with single-tasking.

Pick one task for 20–30 minutes, then pause. Even short blocks of focused attention can reduce mental fragmentation and restore a sense of control.

2.   Create “signal vs noise” boundaries.

Try:

• Turning off nonessential notifications
• Keeping one “check-in window” for email/messages
• Separating work and personal apps across devices or profiles

3.   Build real recovery time into your day.

Recovery is not laziness; it’s how the brain resets. Consider:

• A 10-minute walk without your phone
• A screen-free meal
• A wind-down routine that starts 30–60 minutes before bed

4.   Protect your sleep, it’s your brain’s repair system.

Sleep is one of the most effective ways to restore cognitive performance. If screen habits are interfering, move devices out of the bedroom and keep a consistent sleep/wake schedule when possible.

When brain fatigue may signal something more

Brain fatigue can be temporary. But when it lasts for weeks, continues to worsen, or occurs alongside depression or intense anxiety, it may reflect strain in the brain circuits that help regulate mood, focus, and energy.

If you’re noticing emotional changes as well, you’re not alone. Major depressive episodes affect about 8.3% of U.S. adults each year (NIMH), and depression can significantly impact attention, motivation, and sleep.

You deserve a thoughtful evaluation that looks beyond symptoms to better understand what your brain may be experiencing — not guesswork.

A more personalized option: fMRI-guided TMS therapy at Neurotherapeutix

At Neurotherapeutix, we provide fMRI-guided TMS therapy, supported by computational brain mapping, to identify disrupted brain circuits and guide stimulation with a level of personalization that standard TMS does not offer.

It’s important to be transparent: standard TMS is widely available. Neurotherapeutix is the only clinic in the United States offering this specific fMRI-guided TMS approach, designed to target the right circuits more precisely.

To ground this in an established medical context:

• TMS is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain (Mayo Clinic).
• MRI uses no ionizing radiation (NIH/NIBIB), which is one reason MRI-based approaches are widely used in medicine.

How fMRI-guided TMS is different from standard TMS

Standard TMS typically uses generalized targeting based on external head measurements. In contrast, fMRI-guided TMS at Neurotherapeutix uses fMRI-based computational brain mapping to identify disrupted circuits and tailor treatment accordingly.

If you’d like a deeper explanation of the process, visit:

• How it works
• Personalized TMS vs. standard TMS in NYC

Support beyond stimulation

Some people benefit from layered support—skills, structure, and accountability—especially when brain fatigue is tied to burnout and life demands. That’s why we offer our patients:

• Mental health coaching
• Full psychiatric services

A path forward that respects your brain

You don’t have to push through exhaustion or guess what your brain needs. When fatigue and anxiety begin to shape your daily life, you deserve care that looks deeper — with clarity, compassion, and precision.

At Neurotherapeutix, we take the time to understand your brain and your story. Through fMRI-guided TMS therapy supported by functional MRI–based computational brain mapping, our team personalizes care to reflect how your brain communicates — not just how you feel.

If you’re ready to explore what personalized, imaging-guided care could look like for you, our team is here to help.

Contact us or request an appointment today.

FAQs about brain fatigue