What is Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback or simply biofeedback, is a therapeutic approach that can address a wide range of symptoms and conditions. The method is rooted in the concept that by altering your thought patterns and behaviors, you can influence the way your brain operates.

This is an alternative medical approach that utilizes electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor an individual’s electrical activity in response to their environment. This technique aims to regulate physiological responses and behaviors that have been linked to problematic stress or anxiety.

This Therapy can assist with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood swings, sleep disturbances, nightmares, trauma/PTSD, peak performance, and beyond.

Key points

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Neurofeedback 101

A person’s mental state is influenced by the brain’s electrical activity. It helps the brain observe its state and the brain is capable of making adjustments in response. With each session, the brain trains and gradually learns to function at improved levels.

During this session, your brain waves are monitored, and the system presents feedback to the brain each time it changes states.

Illustration of a human brain

Does neurofeedback therapy really work?

According to the Mayo Clinic, over 400 studies have examined the effectiveness of this in treating ADHD, with approximately 80% of these studies yielding positive results.

Research indicates that while various forms of therapy are valuable, this therapy stands out as a safe method to enhance healthy brain function. This therapy has gained popularity among those seeking alternatives to medication. Neurofeedback has demonstrated significant improvements in symptoms such as impulsiveness, hyperactivity, and difficulty focusing.

What is neurofeedback used for?

Neurofeedback is beneficial for a variety of conditions, including ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, depression, trauma/PTSD, migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, insomnia, and more. Additionally, individuals in demanding careers often turn to this therapy to achieve peak performance.

Research demonstrates that enhances concentration and focus, making it an ideal tool for those in high-pressure professions.

What does neurofeedback do to the brain?

A well-functioning brain maintains a balance of chemical messengers, including dopamine, serotonin, noradrenaline (norepinephrine), histamine, and acetylcholine.

Many of these chemical messengers are concentrated in particular regions of your brain and are crucial for regulating other bodily functions. For instance, acetylcholine plays a key role in your nervous system. During times of stress, such as poor sleep or challenging work situations, acetylcholine may be released into your bloodstream, sending signals to various organs like your liver, heart, skin, and muscles, potentially raising your blood pressure. Other chemicals in your body function in similar ways.

This Therapy assists in regulating these chemical messengers, helping to maintain their balance. Sensors used in neurofeedback track changes in the brain’s electrical activity.

Recent studies examining the effectiveness of neurofeedback

Recent research has demonstrated that is effective in treating various conditions, including ADHD and depression. In fact, an NIH study revealed that neurofeedback is as effective as medication in managing ADHD symptoms. Due to its minimal risk of side effects, many patients consider this to be the optimal treatment choice for their condition.

Reach out today

If you’re looking for a safe, effective, and non-invasive way to improve your mental health and overall well-being, this therapy could be the solution you’ve been searching for. At A Better You Wellness, TJ Johnson specializes in helping individuals harness the power of neurofeedback to achieve lasting results. Don’t wait to take control of your mental health—reach out to TJ Johnson today at A Better You Wellness to learn how this can help you live your best life.

References

Berger, L. M., Wood, G., & Kober, S. E. (2022). Effects of virtual reality-based feedback on neurofeedback training performance-A sham-controlled study.Frontiers in human neuroscience, 16, 952261. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2022.952261

Marzbani, H., Marateb, H. R., & Mansourian, M. (2016). Neurofeedback: A Comprehensive Review on System Design, Methodology and Clinical Applications.Basic and clinical neuroscience, 7(2), 143–158. https://doi.org/10.15412/J.BCN.03070208

Russo, G. M., Balkin, R. S., & Lenz, A. S. (2022). A meta‐analysis of neurofeedback for treating anxiety‐spectrum disorders. Journal of Counseling & Development

Yeh, W. H., Ju, Y. J., Liu, Y. T., & Wang, T. Y. (2022). Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Neurofeedback Training of Theta Activity on Working Memory and Episodic Memory in Healthy Population.> International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(17), 11037.