Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders in the United States, with about 19 million American adults having it. This specific mood disorder is usually impacted by biological influences, hereditary factors, medications/illicit substances, significant life events, and even one’s overall personality. Depression is most commonly connected to genetics, meaning that the vast majority of people who have this condition also have a family history of it. Unfortunately, depression is not a disorder that gets better as time passes as it requires professional care. Neurofeedback therapy for depression is a very beneficial and effective treatment option for many.
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback therapy that helps improve overall brain function so as to help negate the distressing effects caused by certain mental health disorders like depression. Because depression and other mental health disorders are often genetic, there are many people who experience them simply because of how their brain functions. Traditional treatment such as a combination of prescription medications and therapy may work wonders for some, but for others, attacking the symptoms associated with a mental health disorder takes more work. Neurofeedback offers these individuals an opportunity to improve the function of their brains by retraining specific brain waves.
How Does Neurofeedback Work?
What neurofeedback therapy for depression does is work to synchronize brain waves so that the brain functions better overall. When brain waves are working as they should be, symptoms associated with mental health disorders like depression decrease, making everyday life easier to manage.
Neurofeedback therapy is a non-invasive, safe procedure that causes no pain or harm to the patient. During a neurofeedback session, sensors will be placed on the scalp of the patient so that they can read the signals that the brain is producing. After the sensors detect these signals, they send them to a computer for a professional to review so they can make a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs.
Depending on the plan, a patient may be asked to view or listen to certain stimuli to see how the brain responds to it. When the brain responds negatively, whatever they are watching or listening to will dim or get quieter. When the brain responds positively, that stimuli will become brighter or more pleasant in sound.
This process provides feedback in real-time, allowing for the brain to rewire itself in a positive manner. When this occurs, symptoms commonly associated with depression can lessen as the brain becomes more properly wired.
Benefits of Neurofeedback Therapy for Depression
There are several benefits to neurofeedback therapy for depression, many of which can even be life-changing. Those who participate in this type of therapy can expect to benefit in a number of ways.
It Does Not Require Prescription Medications
Many people with depression have been prescribed medications to help balance out their brain chemistry. While antidepressants have proven to be highly effective in treating those with depression, there are people who have struggled to benefit from them. There are also people who prefer not to consume prescription medications if there are other options. Neurofeedback therapy for depression offers individuals the option of getting treated without having to take prescription medications.
It Provides Quality Information to Your Healthcare Provider
Neurofeedback offers instantaneous results that help your healthcare provider better understand exactly what is occurring inside your brain. When they have that information, they are not only able to gain a stronger understanding of your experiences, but they are also more equipped to properly treat your depression.
It is Non-Invasive
This specific type of therapy is non-invasive, allowing for you to obtain neurofeedback therapy for depression without having your day interrupted. You can get neurofeedback therapy and then drive yourself home, continue to work, and do anything else that you would normally do. There is no effect on your ability to function whatsoever after this therapy has been completed.
It Offers Relief
Depression is an extremely complex mood disorder and can be very difficult to live with on a daily basis. Symptoms such as pervasive sadness, low self-esteem, thoughts of suicide, and problems sleeping can make life feel burdensome. Instead of having to push past these symptoms, those who engage in neurofeedback therapy are able to obtain relief from them. This helps to open up new opportunities for them, including improving their lives.
Depression Treatment in South Florida
Dealing with depression can be daunting. Even if you obtain treatment, you might find that the treatment you are receiving is not working for you. It can take time and energy to finally hit your stride when it comes to treating your condition, two resources that are hard to come by when you have depression.
At Neuroscience Institute in South Florida, we understand just how draining this particular mood disorder can be. Our services, including neurofeedback therapy for depression, can help alleviate your symptoms so that you can begin building a happier, healthier life for yourself.
Do not wait any longer. Call us or visit our admissions page to learn more about how we can help you or a loved one.
