Addiction Treatment and Neurofeedback
"Recovery is possible, and Neurofeedback can be a helpful tool to support you along the way." - Jessica Bonert
Struggling with Addiction? You’re Not Alone.
Addiction, also known as substance-use disorder, is characterized by a dependency on substances such as alcohol, Marijuana, or other drugs, resulting in symptoms of withdrawal and cravings when the substance is removed. Addiction is impacted by, and can impact, the brain’s activity and functionality.
Let’s discuss how Neurofeedback can help support recovery.
How Addiction Impacts the Brain:
The type of brainwave patterns altered and the region(s) of the brain that these alterations affect can depend on the type of substance(s) used and other underlying factors. However, all of the brain waves, (including delta, theta, alpha, and beta) are often affected in individuals with substance use disorder.
What are these brain waves usually responsible for?
Neurofeedback can help re-adjust these brainwaves. When considering Neurofeedback for substance abuse disorders, it is essential to address any comorbidity. "Comorbidity" refers to any underlying or co-existing condition that may be contributing to the substance abuse, such as anxiety, depression, and/ or PTSD. A separate Neurofeedback protocol may be required to target these conditions and support long-term recovery.
How Neurofeedback Can Help:
● Reduce comorbidity: by addressing underlying conditions, Neurofeedback can decrease the urge to use substances.
● Reduce cravings: Neurofeedback has been found to reduce cravings by regulating the brain activity associated with cravings, making it easier to resist cravings.
● Re-establish the brain reward system: Neurofeedback can normalize our brain’s natural reward system, allowing individuals to experience pleasure from everyday activities and decreasing the likelihood of substance use for pleasure.
● Induce meditative states: By inducing meditative states, Neurofeedback can help support recovery by reducing stress and allowing the brain to recover.
● Balance emotions: The Alpha-Theta protocol helps regulate emotions and release trauma. This can help reduce impulsivity and help resist and lower cravings.
How to Get Started with Neurofeedback for Addiction:
When considering Neurofeedback, think about the following:
1. Identify other conditions: Identifying any underlying and coexisting conditions helps ensure that you get the most out of your Neurofeedback sessions. During an EEG Brain Scan, we can see many areas that are affected, (not just by addiction.) Let's treat your brain and body as a whole!
2. Combining therapies: Neurofeedback can work well with other treatments, such as Dialectical Behavioural Therapy or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Research some different types of therapies and see if any seem like a good fit for you. We can work with your health team to help you get the best results.
3. Commitment: Consistency is key with Neurofeedback! Our team will help you create a plan that fits your needs. We support you in maintaining regular sessions, while being flexible with your personal limits.
4. Reach out! We offer free information sessions and are happy to answer any questions you may have. It's our goal to help you feel your best. Recovery is possible, and Neurofeedback can be a helpful tool to support you along the way!
Reach out to learn more! Get in touch with us HERE or by calling 587-333-6349. 💙
Citations:
Dehghani-Arani, F., Rostami, R., & Nadali, H. (2013). Neurofeedback training for opiate addiction: Improvement of mental health and craving. Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback, 38(2), 133–141. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10484-013-9218-5
Sokhadze, T., Cannon, R., Trudeau, D. EEG biofeedback as a treatment for substance use disorders: review, rating of efficacy, and recommendations for further research. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback. 2008 Mar;33(1):1-28. doi: 10.1007/s10484-007-9047-5. Epub 2008 Jan 24. PMID: 18214670; PMCID: PMC2259255.
Sokhadze, T., Stewart, C., & Hollifield, M. (2008). Integrating cognitive neuroscience research and cognitive behavioral treatment with neurofeedback therapy in drug addiction comorbid with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A conceptual review. Journal of Neurotherapy, 11(2), 13–44. https://doi.org/10.1300/j184v11n02_03
Trudeau. D., Sokhadze, T., Cannon, R. (2009). Neurofeedback in alcohol and drug dependency. Introduction to Quantitative EEG and Neurofeedback, 10 , 241-264. https://books.google.ca/books?hl=en&lr=&id=PigKJuOSvbMC&oi=fnd&pg=PA241&dq=neurofeedback+and+addiction&ots=Ak7eNz-BDi&sig=gBL-SPdvyeYp5Ut47pne1eRqkj8#v=onepage&q=neurofeedback%20and%20addiction&f=false
Disclaimer:
Our content is for informational and educational purposes and is not a replacement for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you're facing mental health concerns, please seek help from a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Every individual's situation is unique, so use the information here at your discretion. While we strive for accuracy, the field of psychology is ever-evolving, and our content may not always reflect the latest research. Please prioritize your privacy by avoiding sharing personal information in comments or interactions. Your well-being is our top concern, so use our content for educational purposes, but remember to rely on professionals for your specific needs.
