Neurofeedback: A New Hope For Improving Brain Function

Why go for neurofeedback therapy in India?

Effective tool

Neurofeedback is a direct method of training the brain to function efficiently. The brain is observed in action through a laptop-screen linked to the scalp by a set of sensors. Neurofeedback has emerged as an effective tool to train the brain and improve its functionality, manifesting in the form of ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Anxiety-Depression Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Issues in Primary Care for Children and Adolescents.

Self-regulation

Neurofeedback is a kind of biofeedback using real-time displays of brain activity or electroencephalography (EEG), to teach self-regulation. Sensors are attached to the scalp of a person to measure brain activity. The measurements are then shown on screen for the person to watch, then try and control his brain function.

Neurofeedback for ADHD

Efficient or Inefficient?

Opinions vary on the efficacy of the neurofeedback method to deal with ADHD or other mental issues. Some experts have said that there have been no adverse side-effects in this method. They maintain that standard neurofeedback protocols for ADHD, like theta/beta, sensorimotor rhythm (SMR), and slow cortical potentials are thoroughly investigated and have demonstrated great results. “Neurofeedback has been shown to have high efficiency for managing ADHD symptoms and along with the other treatment modalities, it is definitely an effective option,” says Mrs. Neha Cadabam, Psychologist and Executive Director at Cadabams.

However, in recent years, neurofeedback has found an increasing number of takers including experts using it as an alternative therapy to teach the brain to stay calm and focused. Experts say that though Neurofeedback can be expensive (needing a minimum of 12 sessions costing a few thousands), takes too much time, and yet it can be scientifically proven as an effective treatment.

Neurofeedback for Depression

It has been proven that your mood is better when the left frontal area of your brain is more active as compared to the right frontal area activation when your mood turns bad.

Studies showed that Neurotherapy for depression in college students is quite successful. It trains the left frontal area of your brain to be active and also helps modify your thinking patterns, making them more positive thus eliminating the chances of depression or relapse.

While some professionals have actively started using this along with core treatment modalities. There are a certain set of professionals who use this option when other methods to treat depression fail, such as psychotherapy and antidepressants.

Why Neurofeedback and Not Other Methods to Treat Depression?

Neurotherapy does not work the same as every depression treatment. In Neurotherapy, the doctors can identify the source of the problem and your mood. Studies have shown one’s mood can be better when the left frontal area of their brain is more active than the right. But, this is not the same for everyone.

Many different kinds of depressions have varying origins in the brain. While other medications and methods of treatment will mainly concentrate on the symptoms and eliminate them, Neurotherapy will help you ascertain the source where your mood problem is originating, and help you work on it and improve your mood through feedback and training.

Neurofeedback for Addiction

With practice and ongoing training, neurofeedback therapy for addiction can support long term sobriety. This is because there is a need for long term relief, rather than immediate (short-term) relief. Ongoing neurofeedback training helps in reducing chances of any relapse, too. The individuals recovering from addiction can learn to be patient and calm, they understand their triggers which prevent any impulsive actions. Neurofeedback therapy helps create a sense of time and space that allows conscious response, instead of overreacting.

Neurofeedback therapy plays a major role in addiction treatment, and it offers a wide spectrum of efficacy that is universally used and accepted.

Dos and Don’ts

Neurofeedback is slowly becoming a preferred mode of treatment for various mental health issues because it is a non-invasive form of treatment. The side effects are minimal and there is no interference with the body in the form of drugs or medicines.

As an increasing number of parents are opting for neurofeedback to treat their children here are a few dos and don’ts you need to keep in mind beforehand:

• It is important to ensure that the neurofeedback session is done with a professional.
• The practitioner needs to be licensed with a specialization in psychological or medical disorders.
• It’s important to ensure the practitioner establishes a rapport with your ward before they begin with the session.
• Quiz the practitioner about the methods they are using and ask if it is the latest one.

The Long Term Advantages of Neurofeedback

People with depression that have undergone Neurotherapy say that it is easier for them to stabilize their moods and be motivated. Neurotherapy can help a depressed person get their life back. Depression changes the way you think and Neurotherapy helps you relearn healthier thought patterns and overcome depression. Neurotherapy also offers long-term recovery from problems like addiction. By improving your self-control and regulation, Neurofeedback can help in lessening the chances of a relapse.

Even in children, Neurofeedback can play a big role in long-term recovery from ADHD. It can improve focus and concentration to help children at schools, in their relationships, in society and later at workplaces as well.

A Long Way to Go

To conclude, it is worth mentioning that neurofeedback is yet to become a standard, recognized system to cure various mental health issues. A person or child may show enduring signs of recovery at the end of the therapy. However, neurofeedback still has a long way to go. If anyone you know or care about is going through depression, anxiety, neurosis, addiction issues, autism and ADHD, urge them to seek help and get better.

FAQs

Is neurofeedback for depression harmful?

No, neurofeedback for depression is not harmful, and it’s recognized as a safe way of enhancing a patient’s electro-neurological flexibility. However, some people have reported minor side effects, which are not harmful and eventually subside with time.

What can neurofeedback be used for?

Neurofeedback therapy can be used for the treatment of any brain activity issues and several dysregulation conditions. Some of them are anxiety-depression, behavior disorders, sleep disorders, migraines, headaches, Premenstrual Syndrome, and attention deficit.

How quick is Neurotherapy?

The results are gradual, and the initial progress can be seen in the first 15 sessions for most cases. The typical treatment program includes twenty four to thirty six sessions, and it depends on the condition.

Neurofeedback Therapy at Cadabams Hospitals

Cadabams Hospitals has been one of the pioneers in introducing Neurofeedback therapy in the country along with mainstream treatment programs. The Neurofeedback specialists (psychologist / psychiatrist) at Cadabams analyze a patient’s previous health records, medical history, lifestyle, and other vital information to understand and know more about the patient’s behavior and the right treatment modalities to apply.

With the use of advanced instruments and monitoring procedures, neurofeedback specialists (psychologist / psychiatrist) identify responses and train the brain to induce better patient outcomes. At Cadabams, we ensure that we offer affordable neurofeedback therapy to make it more accessible to everyone who needs it.

Call us on our 24×7 helpline +91 96111 94949 for further details on Neurofeedback Therapy treatment.