Can Neurofeedback Treatment Help With Depression?
Clinical depression is a prevalent mental health disorder affecting millions of people worldwide, with a range of symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s daily activities. It can be caused by a biological predisposition or a traumatic life event.
Depression symptoms can include low self-esteem, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, sadness, and loss of interest.
Major depressive disorder is often treated through a combination of antidepressants, psychological counseling, and sometimes even electroconvulsive therapy.
Neurofeedback training is an emerging treatment option for depression that could potentially provide clients with the tools to regulate their brain activity on their own.
Neurotherapy is a non-invasive method that uses EEG technology to create a “brain map” of the client’s electrical activity.
This helps identify areas where the brain is functioning inefficiently, allowing therapists to target those areas with neurofeedback techniques.
The goal is to train your brain to produce the ideal pattern of electrical signals, which can lead to improved mental health and performance.
Some therapists incorporate a brain imaging tool called functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). This uses magnetic fields to measure changes in blood flow in response to neural activity.
Neurofeedback therapy can be used in conjunction with fMRI to train individuals to regulate their own brain activity patterns, with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life for those with mental health conditions.
Neurotherapy can help some individuals suffering from depression. With consistent practice and guidance from a qualified clinician, it is possible to achieve lasting changes in brain function that can lead to improved moods, better focus, increased relaxation, and greater emotional balance.
In one study published in the Elsevier from Harvard University, 24 participants with depression were treated with neurofeedback therapy.
The results showed that these individuals showed significant improvement when compared to the control group that did not receive the therapy.
More studies are needed to confirm the benefits of neurofeedback and to determine the long-term benefits, but so far, the results are promising.
Just an FYI, neurofeedback is also known as neurotherapy and also known as EEG biofeedback.
What Areas Of The Brain Affect Mood And Cause Depression?
The parts of the brain that are most closely associated with mood and depression are the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, and basal ganglia.
The Prefrontal Cortex
The prefrontal cortex (the right frontal area) is responsible for executive function tasks such as decision-making, problem-solving, and goal setting. It also plays a role in regulating emotions.
In brain-imaging studies using PET scans, depressed people display abnormally low activity in the prefrontal cortex, and more specifically in its lateral, orbitofrontal, and ventromedial regions. And the severity of the depression often correlates with the extent of the decline in activity in the prefrontal cortex.
thebrain.mcgill.ca
As a result, someone suffering from depression may have difficulty completing tasks, achieving goals (if they even set any goals), and working through problems with work and life.
The Hippocampus
The hippocampus is involved in memory formation and retrieval and is thought to play a role in the development of depression.
The hippocampus, an area of the brain responsible for memory and emotion, shrinks in people with recurrent and poorly treated depression, a global study has found.
theguardian.com
As a result, depression can be heightened due to this person’s problems with cognitive functioning and memory.
The Amygdala
The amygdala is involved in processing emotions and has been linked to the experience of fear and stress.
The inability to cope with stress plays a major role in developing depression. An overactive amygdala, (mis)regulated by the prefrontal cortex, is a key component of this. In addition, the overactive amygdala likely creates a cognitive bias towards interpreting the world, and self, negatively.
The University of Queensland Australia
As a result, the person with depression may find it extremely difficult to view situations with an optimistic viewpoint. They are only able to see the negative.
The Basal Ganglia
Finally, the basal ganglia helps to regulate our motor movements and have also been found to be associated with mood regulation.
Recent research has suggested that the basal ganglia also take part in complex fronto-subcortical networks that have an important role in cognition reward, and mood regulation.
National Library of Medicine
As a result, due to the motor problems (tremors, speech impairment, posture, etc.) which are all mostly found in patients with Parkinson’s – the incidence of depression is higher and often more severe.
All these areas of the brain interact together to affect our overall emotional well-being and can be disrupted by depression. Understanding how these areas interact with each other and contribute to depressive symptoms is an essential part of understanding the causes of depression.
How Does Neurofeedback Help With Depression?
Depression is often associated with certain patterns of brain activity, such as decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex and increased activity in the limbic system.
By providing feedback on brainwave activity and encouraging individuals to self-regulate their brain activity, neurofeedback can potentially help to normalize these patterns and improve symptoms of depression.
It is important to note that neurofeedback is not a standalone treatment for depression and is most effective when used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as medication and therapy.
From over 55 years of research, Alpha brainwaves predominantly in the left hemisphere have been linked to depression. Using a noninvasive qEEG, we are able to determine if your brain is showing these commonalities. Once these brainwaves are identified, neurofeedback can help guide new healthier brainwaves. This creates new neural pathways, allowing the brain to return to a normalized state, eliminating your depressive symptoms.
mybraindr.com
Is Neurofeedback An Effective Treatment For Depression?
Neurofeedback has been gaining more attention as an alternative treatment for depression in recent years.
..a study in 2019 used neurofeedback to treat those suffering from treatment-resistant depression (TRD). After twelve weeks, they found response rates were 58.3 percent. Not only did neurofeedback help the symptoms, it also helped their recovery.
nhahealth.com
It is important to remember that neurofeedback is not a cure for depression, and it should not be used as a replacement for traditional treatments. Neurofeedback is meant to supplement other therapies and medications that help manage symptoms of depression.
Overall, neurofeedback appears to be an effective treatment for depression, especially when combined with other therapy options. It can provide additional support, helping reduce symptoms and allowing people to manage their depression more effectively.
How do I know if neurofeedback is working?
While there is no single answer to this question, here are some things that you can look out for:
- Reduction of Symptoms: If you find yourself experiencing fewer symptoms related to the condition being treated, neurofeedback may be working.
- Improved Attention & Concentration: Neurofeedback therapy has been shown to improve focus and concentration skills. If you find yourself better able to focus and concentrate on tasks for a longer period of time, this may be a sign that neurofeedback is working.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Neurofeedback can also help improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia. Look out for signs such as fewer night awakenings or that you are feeling more rested upon waking up.
- Reduced Anxiety & Stress: Neurofeedback can help improve emotional regulation and reduce anxiety and stress levels. If you find yourself feeling less anxious or stressed, neurofeedback may be having positive effects on your mental health.
- Improved Overall Mood: Finally, neurofeedback has been associated with improved overall moods. If you find yourself feeling more positive and having a more optimistic outlook on life, this could be another sign that neurofeedback is helping.
It’s important to remember that the effects of neurofeedback might not always be immediate or drastic – it can take some time before you see any noticeable changes. If you’re committed to taking part in neurofeedback, it’s best to stay patient and keep a record of any changes you experience.
After a few training sessions, you should start to get a better idea of whether neurofeedback is working for you or not. If there are no signs of improvement after several weeks, then it might be worth speaking with a medical professional about other treatment options.
What To Expect From A Neurofeedback Therapy Session
You may be wondering what to expect from a neurofeedback session. Generally speaking, most sessions last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and involve sitting in front of a computer with electrodes attached to your head.
You may expect to feel some kind of sensation from those electrodes but that is not the case. They are there to monitor your brain waves, not to give you any sort of stimulus.
Your therapist will then be able to assess your brain activity in real-time and measure your level of relaxation or alertness.
You’ll first discuss your goals for therapy and the specific areas of your brain that you want to focus on. Depending on your needs, this may include mental clarity, increased attention, improved sleep, or decreased stress levels.
The therapist then creates a neurofeedback protocol which is a specific treatment plan that outlines the parameters for a neurofeedback therapy session.
The protocol includes information about the type of sensors to be used, the location on the scalp where the sensors will be placed, the type of brainwave activity to be targeted, and the specific feedback cues that will be given during the session.
During the session, you’ll be asked to focus on certain tasks or activities while the machine monitors your brainwaves and the therapist assesses what he/she is seeing.
Your therapist will use this data to create an individualized plan that you can follow between sessions in order to get the most out of your treatment.
At the end of each session, your therapist will discuss with you what areas have improved and where more work is needed.
Overall, neurofeedback therapy is a non-invasive and painless treatment that can be tailored to your individual needs and goals. It is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects.
However, as with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before beginning neurofeedback therapy.
The Benefits Of Neurofeedback Therapy
I know I’ve mentioned several times throughout this article about the many benefits that someone who is suffering from depression can gain from neurotherapy, but I wanted to jot down here a list of some of the main ones so that you can have a quick overview of the possible advantages.
1. Directly changes brain circuitry – Neurotherapy has been proven to directly change the brain’s circuitry and activity patterns, which can be incredibly helpful in alleviating symptoms of depression.
2. Promotes relaxation – Neurotherapy can help the individual relax and can provide relief from the mental stress that often accompanies depression.
3. Improves cognitive functioning – Neurotherapy can enhance cognitive abilities, such as memory, focus, and problem-solving skills, which are all important for managing depression.
4. Enhances mood – Neurotherapy can help individuals regulate their emotions and improve their overall mood. Many clients report an increase of positive emotions and a decrease in negative emotions.
5. Increases self-awareness – Neurotherapy can increase the individual’s awareness of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors associated with depression, which can lead to more effective coping strategies and ultimately better outcomes.
6. Improves sleep – Neurotherapy has been found to improve sleeping patterns, which can help with managing depression.
7. Enhances self-confidence – Neurotherapy can lead to increased confidence and improved self-esteem, which are important for those struggling with depression.
8. Increases motivation – Neurotherapy can help those with depression to find a sense of purpose and encourage greater motivation.
9. Reduces stress – Neurotherapy can be used to help reduce stress, which is a major component in depression, as well as other mental health issues.
10. Helps you become more mindful – Neurotherapy can help people become more mindful of their thoughts and feelings, which can lead to better decision-making and greater motivation.
11. Boosts self-esteem – Neurotherapy can help individuals recognize and accept their own strengths and weaknesses, which leads to greater confidence and a healthier sense of self-worth.
12. Reduces anxiety – Neurotherapy can reduce levels of anxiety through calming techniques such as deep breathing and relaxation exercises. This can help those suffering from anxiety disorders or general stress and worry.
13. Improves overall wellness – Neurotherapy can improve physical and mental health by reducing negative thoughts, improving sleep habits, and creating a sense of inner peace. All of these benefits can lead to better overall well-being.
14. Enhances creativity – Neurotherapy can improve creativity by stimulating the brain’s creative centers. This could lead to more innovative ideas, better problem-solving skills, and higher levels of overall productivity.
15. Improves focus and concentration – Neurotherapy can help the individual to become more focused and concentrated on the tasks at hand. This could be beneficial for work, school, or other activities that require sustained attention.
Besides depression, neurofeedback is also used to help individuals with mental illnesses such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many neurofeedback sessions are needed for treating depression?
The number of sessions required to treat depression through neurofeedback will vary depending on individual circumstances. Generally, it is recommended that you have at least 10-20 sessions for optimum results.
The exact number of sessions needed will depend on the severity of your depression as well as other factors such as your responsiveness to treatment and whether or not any underlying medical conditions are present.
Does neurofeedback therapy work for anxiety?
The answer is – it depends. While neurofeedback therapy has been found to be helpful in reducing symptoms of anxiety, there are no guarantees that it will work for everyone.
Different types of neurofeedback therapies have different levels of effectiveness, and the best approach for one person may not work for another.
Are neurofeedback results permanent?
The answer is: it depends. Neurofeedback isn’t a one-time “cure” for whatever issues you’re dealing with, but rather a tool to give you the skills and resources necessary to manage your symptoms and improve your own mental well-being.
With proper practice, many people have seen positive lasting results from neurofeedback therapy sessions.
What is the success rate of neurofeedback therapy?
Well, it varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated but neurofeedback is a promising therapy for many mental health issues. Studies have shown that neurofeedback can help improve symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and insomnia in up to 80% of patients.
How many times a week should I do neurofeedback?
That depends on your goals and the type of neurofeedback you are doing. Generally, for maximum results, neurofeedback should be done one to three times a week.
Talk to your practitioner about what is best for you and your specific situation.
For more information about our counseling and neurotherapy services, contact us today via email or call us at 404-449-1236.
Additional Resources on Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback 101
The Healing Power Of Neurofeedback
Depression and Neurofeedback
Discovering Neurofeedback: Training Your Brain For Adhd, Anxiety and Depression
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For more information about our counseling and neurotherapy services, contact us today via email or call us at 404-449-1236.
