Automated Neurofeedback Brain-Training as a Primary PTSD Intervention

Authors: Posson D*

DOI: 10.23880/pprij-16000197

Volume 4, Issue 1

Abstract

Neurofeedback brain-training has a significant presence in the literature for its efficacy in alleviating the symptoms and behavioral manifestations of PTSD, with no enduring negative side-effects. It is considered a behavioral intervention in that it teaches the brain to better manage its own brain-wave activity, leading to reduction of 80-85% of symptoms in the first 30-40 training sessions. Brain-training has shown efficacy in improving recovery from anxiety, depression, insomnia, addictions, emotional and cognitive dysregulation, attention, impulse control and many more co-occurring symptoms of PTSD. Barriers to broad-based implementation in both clinical and subclinical settings include cost of equipment, lengthy, in-depth training requirements, and a lack of clear guidance in developing and implementing brain-training protocols specific to each individual’s brain-phenotype. Automated Psychophysiological assessment and EEG Biofeedback training systems demonstrate equal efficacy as clinician-guided EEG Systems. We propose that Automated EEG Biofeedback systems have evolved to differentiate and train a multiplicity of brain-phenotypes related to PTSD. Further, these systems decrease the cost of brain-training significantly, reduce the training requirements for brain-trainers, and significantly increase the effectiveness of all other behavioral and pharmacological interventions. We propose that automated braintraining can be more broadly implemented in clinical and sub-clinical settings as a primary behavioral intervention for PTSD.

Keywords: Neurofeedback; Intervention; Symptoms

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