Post-Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD).
QEEG-guided neurofeedback for PTSD works by identifying and modifying specific brainwave patterns that are commonly associated with trauma in the brain. The QEEG helps to map out areas of dysregulation in the brain, offering a clearer understanding of how the brain functions and where improvements can be targeted.
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Common Brain Patterns Associated with PTSD:
1. Increased Temporal Delta and Theta Activity (Slow Wave Activity): Traumatized brains often show increased slow wave activity in the temporal regions, which is associated with memory processing and emotion processing/fear response. This may reflect heightened emotional re-experiencing.
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2. Inappropriate Delta Response: Disruptions in delta activity can indicate poor sleep quality and nightmares.
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2. Increased Beta and Hyper-connectivity: Elevated beta waves can be associated with anxiety and hyperarousal. Coupled with hyper-connectivity, which can result in automatic fight or flight activation leading to hypervigilance.
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What Does the Research Say?:
A 2023 systematic review found that all included studies showed an advantage of neurofeedback over control conditions in reducing PTSD symptoms including anxiety and depression. Similarly, a 2019 pilot study found that neurofeedback significantly reduced PTSD symptoms and preceded gains in affect regulation.