Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments such as medication and therapy have helped many individuals cope with their symptoms. But new and more holistic therapies have emerged to help with treatment, like neurofeedback therapy for PTSD.
Neurofeedback therapy is a relatively new treatment option that has been gaining popularity in recent decades. It involves training the brain to better regulate its own activity. This iterative training can lead to significant improvements in symptoms related to PTSD.
Let’s explore the benefits of neurofeedback therapy for PTSD and what you stand to gain from this therapy.
PTSD and the Effects on the Brain
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, avoiding reminders of traumatic events, and hyperarousal. Such symptoms can lead to difficulty with sleeping or concentrating and may drastically impact the daily lives of those with the condition.
PTSD can occur after a range of traumatic events, such as military combat or natural disasters, but is influenced by each individual’s perspective. When someone experiences a stressful or traumatic event, the brain’s natural response is to release stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which place the body in a heightened state of awareness. In the case of PTSD, the brain continues to release these stress hormones even after the traumatic event has ended, thus leading to a consistent state of hypervigilance and anxiety.
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a type of treatment that uses real-time feedback to train the brain to function more efficiently. It involves attaching electrodes to the scalp which measure brain waves and display them on a computer screen. The patient is then given tasks to perform by a supervising clinician, and the computer gives feedback on how the brain is responding.
Through repeated sessions, the brain learns to self-regulate and improve its functioning, thus reducing symptoms in the long-term. Neurofeedback therapy has been used to treat a variety of conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. In addition, it is a non-invasive and drug-free therapy.
How Neurofeedback Helps PTSD Symptoms
As stated, the goal of neurofeedback is to train the brain to regulate itself more effectively. For those with PTSD, that may look like reduced trauma responses to certain triggers.
In a session, the patient engages in mental activities related to their traumatic event, while the neurofeedback technology provides readings on their brain waves. The machine will alert the patient when their brain activity is within desired ranges. Over time, the brain learns to adjust its activity to stay in that range on its own.
Benefits of Neurofeedback Therapy for PTSD:
1. Reduction in Symptoms
Neurofeedback therapy has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD, including anxiety, depression, hypervigilance, and flashbacks. This occurs because the therapy plan is personalized to the individual. By engaging the brain through this therapy, patients may experience a decrease in the intensity and frequency of these symptoms.
2. Non-Invasive Treatment
Unlike other treatments for PTSD, neurofeedback therapy is non-invasive and does not involve any medication. This makes it a completely natural, safe, and effective option for patients who may not respond well to other treatments or who want to avoid medication.
3. Personalized Treatment
Neurofeedback therapy is tailored to each individual patient based on their unique brain wave patterns. This tailored approach ensures that the treatment is targeted to the specific needs of each patient, resulting in highly beneficial treatment.
4. Long-Term Results
Studies have shown that the benefits of neurofeedback therapy for PTSD are long-lasting, extending far after treatment has ended. As patients can continue to have a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in general well-being, this is a valuable long-term solution for PTSD.
5. Improved Quality of Life
By reducing symptoms of PTSD, neurofeedback therapy can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life and allow them to go about their days without worrying about triggers or symptoms. Patients often report feeling more in control of their emotions, being better able to handle stressful situations, and feeling more confident in their ability to cope.
6. Safe for All Ages
Neurofeedback therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for patients of all ages, including children and seniors. If you’re looking for a gentle treatment option for trauma, give this therapy a try.
7. Complementary to Other Treatments
Neurofeedback therapy can be used in combination with other treatments for PTSD. This complementary approach can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments and provide patients with a more comprehensive treatment plan for their PTSD.
Schedule a Consultation to Explore Using Neurofeedback Therapy for PTSD
Neurofeedback is a promising treatment option for individuals suffering from PTSD and Braincode Centers can provide the personalized therapy that you’re looking for. This innovative approach has shown positive results in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. By training the brain to regulate its own activity, neurofeedback therapy for PTSD can provide individuals with tools to manage their symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life.
Schedule a consultation today to find out more!
