Neurofeedback therapy for anxiety is a non-invasive technique that uses monitoring equipment to provide information about brain activity to help people overcome or control their anxiety. During a neurofeedback session, the patient is exposed to a machine that displays varying levels of brain waves, which are picked up by electrodes attached to the patient’s head. The patient then learns to control and alter the brain wave activity through a process that is designed to train the brain to be more relaxed and calm in response to stressors.
Patients with chronic anxiety disorders have found great success in neurofeedback therapy for anxiety. These patients typically have symptoms that interfere with their quality of life, including sleep problems, lack of concentration and depression. In many cases, people who are suffering from anxiety also experience mental fatigue, due to their constant state of mind. Neurofeedback is an extremely effective method of addressing the mental aspects of anxiety. It is based on the fact that the brain controls most, if not all, of our activities, including breathing and heartbeat, even while we are awake.
Neurofeedback uses a process of monitoring brain wave patterns while the patient is under stress. During a neurofeedback session, the therapist will use various types of brain wave tools to determine which brain wave patterns are functioning properly and which ones are struggling. Then the therapists will teach the patient to control and alter those brain wave patterns. By doing this over time, the person learns to control and alter his or her physical responses to stressors. The goal is to change the brain wave patterns in such a way as to reduce or eliminate the symptoms of anxiety altogether.
During a neurofeedback therapy for anxiety session, the patient will be instructed to monitor brain wave patterns as he or she concentrates, relaxes or thinks about certain things. When the brain waves show abnormality, either due to stress or other reasons, the therapist will determine the problem. If stress is the issue, the patient will be given coping strategies to address the problem, such as relaxation exercises, meditation or even deep breathing. Sometimes patients are also taught to think of relaxing images or thoughts to distract themselves during their stressful moments.
If medication is necessary, some therapists use antidepressants or beta blockers. These types of medications help the patients to focus better and they can help them cope with their anxiety. Some patients choose not to take medication at all and instead rely on neurofeedback therapy for anxiety. This allows them to have a holistic approach to their anxiety treatment and to control their own mind.
In addition to reducing anxiety and stress, Neurofeedback Therapy is also used to improve the overall health of the patient. During a therapy session, the therapist will monitor the health and condition of the patient and give recommendations concerning what changes need to be made in order to maintain or improve his or her health. The patient will be monitored carefully so that he or she does not suffer harmful side effects. Neurofeedback Therapy for anxiety attacks may also address issues related to insomnia, weight gain or loss, or depression. If a patient needs to gain muscle tone or flexibility, this could also be achieved through Neurofeedback Therapy for anxiety.
If a patient is suffering from depression, he or she may benefit from Neurofeedback Therapy. Through the use of EEGs, or electrical pulses, the therapist will be able to identify which part of the brain is responsible for causing anxiety. By regulating the brain wave activities, it will be easier to effectively reduce or eliminate the anxiety. Neurofeedback therapy for anxiety could also control over-sleeping and promote a good night’s sleep for its patients.
Neurofeedback therapy will definitely benefit both the patients and therapists. Because the patients can gain more control over their minds, they will have a better understanding on how to deal with anxiety as well as other problems in their lives. In addition to that, the therapist will also have an easier time identifying the factors causing the patient’s anxiety. Thus, he or she will be able to address this particular condition effectively. Since many patients are experiencing anxiety, there are actually millions of dollars being spent each year in hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies to develop new technologies or find a way to cure patients who suffer from anxiety disorders. So if you are suffering from anxiety but do not know where to turn, it is best to consult your trusted Neurofeedback therapist now.
