From internet addiction to alcohol consumption, through food cravings or the uncontrollable impulse to eat compulsively, various addictions can affect both young and old. Neurofeedback offers interesting benefits to individuals accustomed to different habits and/or activities. What advantages does this non-invasive therapeutic solution provide? Let’s take a look at the benefits of Neurofeedback in reducing addictions related to behaviour or substance use.
Neurofeedback and addictions
Some individuals may be affected by an addiction. They are likely to develop habits or behaviours that can be difficult to control. These behaviours, whether related to substance use or specific activities, can have a significant impact on one’s quality of life.
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Addictions: What You Need to Know
Addictions can involve behaviour ranging from gambling addiction to emotional dependency. This behaviour can also include the use of various substances, whether psychoactive or not, such as alcohol, tobacco, food, and medication.
For scientists, addiction occurs when a person’s body becomes accustomed to a behaviour or substance and requires it to function normally. When the behaviour or substance use is stopped, addiction can be identified through various symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, or nausea. Addiction is also evident when the behaviour or substance takes control of the individual, even if they are aware that their dependence is harmful to their health.
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How does Neurofeedback work for addicted individuals?
Neurofeedback is a technique that helps addicted individuals modify their brain activity in real time. This approach relies on neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to evolve and transform. A headset with electrodes on the scalp measures the brain’s electrical activity. This activity is analyzed to identify abnormal patterns associated with addiction, such as excessive activation of the reward system or insufficient activation of the areas controlling impulses. With the specialized clinic Neuroperforma, Neurofeedback EEG sessions are conducted with a 19-electrode device for better assessment.
Following this analysis, a psychologist can propose a protocol tailored to the client’s needs. The client will then be ready to begin training!
During a Neurofeedback training session, the client receives feedback on their brain activity. When the brain produces the desired waves, a positive reward is given, encouraging the participant to repeat these beneficial patterns. Various studies show that Neurofeedback can alter brain activity related to substance addiction, such as nicotine and tobacco addiction (source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32947225/), for example, helping to reduce cravings in consumers.
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What are the mechanisms that activate in the brain of addicted individuals?
Different complex mechanisms in the brain are related to addictions. When a person takes a substance or engages in repetitive behaviour, such as alcohol consumption or playing video games, the brain’s reward system is activated. This system releases a neurotransmitter called dopamine, which is responsible for the feeling of pleasure. Dopamine is compared to the brain’s natural reward, motivating the person to repeat the behaviour.
The positive reinforcement mechanism appears when substance use generates an intense feeling of pleasure. It makes the person want to relive the same experience, prompting them to consume repeatedly for the same pleasure. Positive reinforcement encourages repeating the action because the brain knows it receives a reward from the behaviour or substance use.
Unfortunately, the brain becomes accustomed to this tendency over time. Substance use or behaviour that initially brought pleasure becomes less intense at the same dose. To regain the same pleasure, the person must consume more often or in larger quantities. As the substance is consumed, the brain reacts by activating the stress system. Hormones like norepinephrine and dynorphin are then released, creating unpleasant sensations such as anxiety or distress. The person then starts consuming not for pleasure but to relieve their discomfort.
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Food addiction, social media addiction, and addiction to various substances: What does Neurofeedback offer?
Neurofeedback offers an innovative approach to fight various addictions, whether they are related to food consumption, excessive use of social media, or taking psychoactive substances. Neurofeedback trains the brain to restore a healthier balance by identifying brain patterns. For food addiction, Neurofeedback can help regulate impulses related to food and strengthen emotional control. In the case of excessive social media use, therapies can reduce anxiety linked to disconnection and encourage a more balanced use of screens. For substance addictions, Neurofeedback can reduce cravings and improve the ability to resist temptation.
What are the benefits of Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback offers several interesting benefits to help a person curb an addiction. By learning to control their brain activity better, the client becomes more aware of their emotions and impulses. This enhances their ability to manage their behaviour in the face of addiction, giving them more control over themselves without relying solely on external interventions.
Thanks to neuroplasticity, Neurofeedback also allows the brain to be somewhat “reprogrammed,” enabling it to function differently in the long term. By training to replicate healthy brain patterns, the person develops a better ability to resist cravings and avoid abusive behaviours, even after the sessions have ended.
Conclusion
Neurofeedback represents a beneficial option for managing addictions by working on the brain’s ability to self-regulate. It is also possible to use this alternative in conjunction with other forms of therapy to maximize the chances of success. Studies and testimonials report positive results in reducing addictive behaviours, mainly when used alongside other therapies. To find out if Neurofeedback can help you, schedule a free consultation with one of our advisors. We offer personalized support for each client in implementing an approach tailored to overcoming addiction.