Neurofeedback Therapy: How to Manage Depression

Depression is a common mental illness that affects millions worldwide. You may feel sad, hopeless, or guilty, along with physical symptoms such fatigue and changes of appetite. Although there are many options for treating depression, such as medication and therapy, some people find neurofeedback therapy to be more effective. We hope this article is helpful for our clients and friends in Boston.

What Is Neurofeedback Therapy And How Does It Work for Depression?

Neurofeedback therapy uses real-time displays and feedback on brain activity to help individuals regulate their brainwave activity. Individuals can get immediate feedback on their brainwave activity patterns to learn how they can change their brainactivity in a way that promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

Neurofeedback therapy can treat depression. It involves the use of sensors to measure brain activity and display it on a computer screen. The information is used by the therapist for teaching patients how to regulate their brainwave activity, such as deep breathing or visualization.

One example is that a person suffering from depression could be trained to increase their Alpha brainwave activity. This activity is linked with calmness and relaxation. This could help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are both common signs of depression. The patient could also be trained in reducing beta brainwave activity. This can help reduce heightened arousal or vigilance. This can be used to improve mood, reduce irritability, and agitation.

People can learn to regulate brainwave activity themselves, with no external feedback. This can reduce symptoms and improve your quality of living.

What Are the Risks and Benefits of Neurofeedback Therapy to Treat Depression?

Neurofeedback therapy is a treatment that can help with depression in various ways:

Non-invasive: Neurofeedback therapy, which is non-invasive, does not require medication.

Individualized treatment. Each patient receives a customized treatment plan that is tailored to their brainwave patterns.

Very few side effects: Neurofeedback therapy is well tolerated by most patients.

Long-lasting results: Studies have shown that neurofeedback therapy has long-lasting benefits, even after the treatment ends.

Neurofeedback therapy may be used in combination with other treatments to treat depression.

Is there a risk of using neurofeedback therapy for depressive symptoms?

Most neurofeedback therapy for depression is safe and effective. As with any treatment, there can be side effects or risks.

A possible risk is that patients may experience temporary symptoms, such as fatigue or headaches, after a session of neurofeedback. These symptoms generally resolve in a matter of hours and should not be considered serious.

Some patients may feel anxious or uncomfortable during the initial stages. This is because they are learning to regulate brainwave activity. These feelings will usually disappear as the patient becomes more comfortable with the treatment.

It is important that you only use neurofeedback therapy with a qualified professional who has experience in the method. Incorrect use of neurofeedback equipment could lead to severe side effects and complications.

What do studies say about neurofeedback therapy for depression?

Although there is not extensive research available on neurofeedback therapy’s effectiveness in treating depression, preliminary studies have shown promising results. In a 2017 study, published in Journal of Clinical Psychology, neurofeedback therapy was found to be effective in reducing anxiety and symptoms of depression in adults.

A second study, published in The Journal of Affective Disorders (2016), found that neurofeedback therapy can reduce symptoms of depression in elderly patients and improve cognitive functioning.

Neurofeedback Therapy Can Be Used to Alleviate Depression

Depression can be a serious condition. It can impact your quality of life. Neurofeedback therapy, which is an alternative to traditional treatment, offers hope for people who aren’t finding relief.

A series of sessions is usually required for neurofeedback therapy to treat depression. The length of each session can vary depending on the individual. The first session will be a diagnostic to assess the patient’s baseline brainwave activity, and then the therapist will develop a treatment program.

Each session will see the patient sit comfortably in a chair with sensors attached at their scalp. The sensors measure brain activity. The therapist will use this information to give the patient feedback about their brainwave patterns as well as teach them ways to regulate brain activity.

Sessions usually last 30 minutes to one hour and patients may need several sessions per week in order to see improvements. Patients usually notice improvements in mood and other symptoms associated with depression as they get older.

Neurofeedback therapy teaches individuals how to control their brainwave activity and can help decrease depression symptoms. While further research is needed in order to fully understand this approach’s effectiveness, preliminary results have been encouraging.

It is important to talk to a qualified healthcare provider if you suffer from depression. They can help determine the best treatment plan for you. Neurofeedback therapy may be an option to complement a complete treatment plan that includes medication, therapy and other supportive measures.

Is Neurofeedback Therapy right for You?

Although further research is required to understand the efficacy of neurofeedback therapy for treating depression, these early studies suggest that it may be an effective treatment option for people who are suffering from depression.

However, neurofeedback therapy does not work for everyone. Talking to a qualified healthcare provider is a good idea to help you determine the best course for your needs.

To determine if neurofeedback therapy is the right fit for you or a loved one, or if you have any queries, feel free to contact us today for a complimentary consultation. You can either call us or click here: Neurofeedback Consultation

Neurofeedback Boston is dedicated to helping people take control of their lives through the latest biofeedback therapy technology. Neurofeedback therapy has helped countless people who suffer from the negative effects of ADD, ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental conditions. 

Our staff is experienced, friendly and dedicated to making your experience as comfortable as possible and is committed to doing all we can to help our clients realize the many benefits of neurofeedback therapy. 

We serve Boston, Massachusetts and the surrounding areas. We also have many other locations throughout the United States, including:

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    The promising treatment option to ADHD is neurofeedback therapy. Neurofeedback therapy can reduce anxiety and stress by teaching individuals how to regulate their brainwave activity. Neurofeedback therapy offers real-time feedback that allows individuals to monitor their brain activity. This helps them to be more aware of what they are thinking and feeling, which can help with ADHD symptoms. A trained professional can help you determine the best treatment option for you.

    You can reach us here for a free Neurofeedback Consultation or by giving us a call today.