Trauma (PTSD)
Neurofeedback therapy, also called Neuromodulation therapy, has been used as a complementary treatment for some forms of trauma, particularly for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
PTSD can take a seriously negative toll on an individual’s life, affecting physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.
The following are some of the ways PTSD can impact a person’s life:
Emotional distress: Individuals afflicted by PTSD are prone to intense feelings of fear, anger, guilt and shame. He or she may find it difficult to regulate these intense emotions.
Avoidance behaviors: Those with PTSD may avoid certain situations, people or activities that trigger memories of the traumatic event. This often leads to social isolation and presents significant challenges for relationships, work and other aspects of daily life.
Re-experiencing symptoms: Sufferers of PTSD are susceptible to experiencing vivid flashbacks, nightmares and intrusive thoughts related to the traumatic event. This causes the person ongoing emotional distress.
Hyperarousal: Individuals with PTSD often report they are easily startled or that they often feel “on edge.” Hyperarousal can lead to difficulty sleeping and concentrating.
Physical symptoms: PTSD is likely to trigger physical symptoms, including headaches, stomach issues and overall muscle tension.
Other mental health conditions: PTSD, when left untreated, may also increase a person’s risk for other mental health conditions, especially anxiety, behavioral disorders, depression and substance abuse.
Early diagnosis and treatment for PTSD can help mitigate the effects and improve an individual’s chances of recovery.
Neurofeedback therapy, also called Neuromodulation therapy, offers the potential to help individuals who have been impacted by a traumatic experience. Essentially, through a series of sessions, Neurofeedback helps regulate how the brain responds to stress and trauma triggers. The treatment can effectively reduce symptoms like anxiety, irritability and poor sleep.
Neurofeedback therapy is often paired with other forms of therapy, such as Psychotherapy.