In the last blog, we explored what neurofeedback therapy is—an emerging, non-invasive approach that helps teach the brain to function more efficiently. By using sensors to read brain waves, it gives real-time feedback, and allows the brain to train itself.
With a better idea of what neurofeedback is and how it works, the next big question is, “What does neurofeedback therapy help with?”
The answer may actually surprise you. Neurofeedback therapy can actually help with a lot of different conditions and life challenges. Here’s a closer look.
Attention Issues
One of the most common uses of neurofeedback is for attention issues like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. People with attention issues often experience an abundance of slow-wave brain activity—or theta waves—and not enough of the fast and focused brain waves—or the beta waves. Neurofeedback can help to rebalance the brainwaves by rewarding the brain when it shifts into a more alert and attentive state.
Anxiety and Stress
With anxiety comes a racing mind or constantly feeling on edge. These symptoms are a sign that the nervous system is stuck in fight-or-flight mode. Neurofeedback can help to calm these overactive brain patterns, especially in those areas of the brain that can trigger anxious thoughts or chronic tension. Neurofeedback can essentially teach the brain how to relax without having to think your way to that state of mind.
Chronic Pain
Neurofeedback and chronic pain are still being studied, but many people have already seen benefits and a reduction in the severity and frequency of their chronic pain. Neurofeedback works by helping to train the brain to process pain signals differently in order to reduce the intensity of the pain and improve the ability to cope.
Mood Regulation
Neurofeedback has also been able to help people who struggle with mood regulation disorders like depression. Neurofeedback works by gently retraining the regions in the brain that are involved in mood regulation by helping to restore healthier rhythms of brain activity. It’s important to note that neurofeedback alone may not be the sole solution, but it can be a supportive component to a bigger strategy.
Performance
Neurofeedback isn’t just for solving problems. It can also be used to improve emotional regulation and mental clarity. High performers like athletes and musicians can use neurofeedback to reduce their performance anxiety, get into their flow states more easily, improve their focus and reaction times, and enhance their intuition or creativity levels.
Sleeping Problems
Did you know that your sleep is actually tied to your brainwave patterns? Neurofeedback can help to regulate the rhythms that support sleep to help guide you to fall asleep, stay asleep, and move through the different stages of sleep.
Trauma or PTSD
Trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can rewire the brain to stay in a hyperactive state as a means of survival. It’s the body and brain’s way to protect and defend itself from any perceived trauma. Neurofeedback helps the brain recognize when it’s actually safe. It teaches it how to shift out of the state of hypervigilance. Neurofeedback is a great alternative to traditional forms of talk therapy. It supports the healing of the nervous system without clients having to relive their trauma all over again.
Next Steps
Neurofeedback isn’t a miracle solution. It is a flexible option that can help with a wide variety of challenges. No matter if you’re struggling with your mental health or just trying to perform to the best of your ability, neurofeedback can help to support your brain from the inside out. Interested in exploring how neurofeedback can help you? Reach out today to get started.
