What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback, also known as brainwave biofeedback, is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time displays of brain activity—recorded by electroencephalography (EEG)—to teach self-regulation of brain function. This is done by rewarding brain activity that is considered optimal for health and performance and discouraging activity that is not. The aim of neurofeedback is to teach individuals to consciously influence their own brain waves and thus gain some control over specific mental or physiological functions and certain clinical conditions.
The EEG records rhythmic electrical impulses produced by the firing of neurons in the brain. Different brain states are characterized by different EEG frequency patterns called "brainwaves." Neurofeedback therapy involves learning to control one's own brainwaves by observing them and receiving feedback, usually visual or auditory responses, when desired patterns are detected in the ongoing EEG.
How Does Neurofeedback Work?
During a Neurofeedback session, the client sits comfortably and has EEG sensors placed non-invasively on the scalp to monitor brain wave activity. The activity is displayed in real-time on a computer screen for the client to view—or hear through tones or music. When the client achieves the target brain wave pattern, the computer provides positive feedback such as raising the volume of a pleasant tone or moving an image on the screen. This reinforcement helps the client's brain recognize when it is producing the desirable brain wave activity and learn to reproduce it independently over time. Multiple sessions over weeks or months of training are usually required.
Clinicians and researchers believe neurofeedback helps individuals gain conscious control over brain functions by capitalizing on the brain's neuroplasticity—its ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. With regular feedback over many sessions, the brain seemingly "rewires" itself to adopt more beneficial neural activity patterns. The goal is to teach the brain new ways of functioning for improving performance, managing symptoms or reducing risks to long-term health.
The Benefits of Neurofeedback Training
Some potential benefits which neurofeedback may provide include:
Enhanced Focus and Concentration
Many studies show neurofeedback can help improve attention, concentration and information processing speed in children and adults. This is linked to its demonstrated ability to increase appropriate beta and sensorimotor rhythm brain waves that support focus while reducing dysfunctional theta activity that impairs it.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Training in protocols aimed at limbic structures like the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex is linked to less physiological arousal and self-reported anxiety in stressful situations. Neurofeedback may help train the brain to respond to threats and stressors in a healthier, less fearful way.
Better Mood Regulation
When neurofeedback targets areas like the prefrontal cortex involved in emotion regulation and impulsivity, it can lead to improvements in mood, depression, anger and behavioral control. Studies report relief of PTSD, addiction withdrawal symptoms and borderline personality disorder using these approaches.
Enhanced Self-Awareness and Insight
Many clients feedback they gain a new "observer self" through neurofeedback—an increased capacity for stepping back, paying attention to their internal processes and making choices from a place of calm observation rather than reactivity. This meta-cognition may support personal growth and self-mastery.
Improved Sleep Quality
Protocols targeting slow wave delta and theta activity show promise for reducing insomnia, nightmares and daytime sleepiness. Optimal sleep enhances mood, cognition, health and longevity.
Potential Uses of Neurofeedback Therapy
While more research is still needed, neurofeedback shows promise as an add-on or alternative treatment for various conditions involving brain dysfunction:
- ADHD - Significant alleviation of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity in both short and longer-term studies.
- Anxiety Disorders - Reduction of generalized and social anxiety symptoms on par with gold-standard CBT alone when targeting limbic-regulating areas like the anterior cingulate cortex.
- Autism Spectrum Disorders - Preliminary evidence neurofeedback may help lessen core deficits in social skills, communication and behavioral regulation.
- Insomnia and Sleep Issues - Various protocols demonstrate relief of insomnia, nightmares, restless leg syndrome and other sleep disturbances.
- PTSD and Trauma-Related Symptoms - Promising for decreasing hyperarousal, intrusive thoughts and dissociation when targeting limbic and prefrontal brain regions.
- Addiction Issues - Supporting overall recovery, managing cravings and withdrawal by remediating imbalances in brain reward pathways.
- Brain Injuries - May speed recovery and alleviate symptoms like fatigue, headaches, anxiety and cognitive deficits from concussions, strokes and more severe injuries.
While not intended as a stand-alone treatment, neurofeedback continues garnering attention as a complementary, personalized method for empowering positive brain change through non-invasive neuroregulation. Used alongside conventional treatment when appropriate, it shows real potential to leverage neuroplasticity for enhancing health, performance and well-being.
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