How Neurofeedback Depression Actually Works

Neurofeedback depression is monitoring depression in an individual using a type of biofeedback. The goal here is to control central neural activity, most specifically that referring to depression. The way it works is by using electroencephalography, which monitors the firing of neurons in the brain through receptors against the scalp.

Here, the advantages are being able to see what is happening neurally in real time, giving a higher chance of assuaging a problem. The receptors used will be placed all over the head, which will let us see what is going on in different parts of the brain, not to mention the availability of different wavelengths. Then, for each part of the brain, the average frequency is shown, and a brain map is produced with the results.

This brain map is then measured and compared with entries from a database that match the sex and age of the individual. It is thought that there is a neurophysiological basis in many depressive cases. For those who have a family history, this is thought to be true in particular.

There is a brain-wave pattern that has been detected in those that have this predisposition, and it can even be found in the brain-waves of those who have family history but do not show signs of depression. Even small children and infants have shown signs of this brain-wave. This pattern can be monitored by watching activity in various parts of the brain that link to different things.

For example, the left frontal lobe is linked with positive emotions and social needs, whereas the right frontal lobe is linked with fear and depression. The urges it triggers here are inverted to the opposite sides, so instead of inspiring a need to be with others and socialize, activity in this part of the brain will instead indicate a need to withdraw.

Slow brain activity in the left side also indicates that the right side is more dominant which, therefore, means that this person will be far more anxious and will be more likely to become depressed. It is considered that for many people, anti-depressants may have a limited effect, which may offer some relief but not as much as might be liked.

Neurofeedback attempts to alter the underlying brainwaves that are signified as being slow in the left side of the brain in order to coerce the brainwaves into becoming more level. It is hoped that this will bring substantial relief to those suffering from depression.

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