Neurofeedback is a therapy that focuses on brain activity. It has become popular as a possible treatment for various neurological and psychological conditions. Although it is praised for its advantages by many, it is important to consider the potential disadvantages and negative outcomes associated with this therapy.
Learn about some of the harmful effects and difficulties experienced by individuals after receiving this therapy.
What Are The Unanticipated Side Effects of Neurofeedback?
Unanticipated side effects of neurofeedback can include temporary headaches, fatigue, mood swings, or increased anxiety, often resolving with adjustments.
The most common complaint among patients undergoing neurofeedback is the unanticipated side effects. These can run from minor unease to more severe symptoms that interfere with everyday life.
Some individuals say they get headaches, fatigue, or dizziness following therapy sessions. Whereas in other cases, these side effects may go on for hours or even days after treatment.
Some also experience mood changes and cognitive disturbances. There have been instances where patients describe having feelings of irritability, anxiety, or depression.
Are There Risks of Overtraining & Overstimulation?
Overtraining in neurofeedback can cause hyperstimulation, worsening symptoms like anxiety and ADHD. It’s not recommended for those with severe conditions or pregnant women.
This therapy trains the brain to produce certain patterns of activity. Overtraining can lead to negative results. Some patients leave their sessions feeling “wired” or over-stimulated. This can lead to racing thoughts and difficulty with sleep.
Sometimes, over-training can worsen the very symptoms that the therapy intended to treat. If someone is seeking relief from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), overtraining can increase the symptoms.
Moreover, people with severe neurological disorders, pregnant women, etc, should avoid this therapy for their own good and safety.
Is There a Lack Of Standardization and Quality Control?
Lack of standardization in neurofeedback can lead to varied outcomes, inconsistent quality, and patient frustration due to differing protocols and equipment.
The lack of standardization in neurofeedback training protocols and equipment is one major issue. Patients may get different outcomes due to this variation. Some people feel disheartened or frustrated when they do not achieve the claimed results, especially after spending significant time and money on the therapy.
Furthermore, the quality of the neurofeedback and the practitioners’ can differ significantly. This may depend on a number of factors such as lack of proper training or use of outdated technology. Deceptive therapists have also been reported by patients who claim their treatment to be more effective than it actually is.
Is Neurofeedback A Costly Choice?
Yes, neurofeedback is a costly choice due to high equipment prices, specialized training, and the need for multiple sessions.
This therapy often entails multiple visits over a long period. It also usually requires considerable monetary investments. This type of treatment is not usually covered by insurance companies hence forcing patients to pay for everything out-of-pocket.
In case the desired results are not achieved , this financial responsibility might become a source of worry or anxiety.
Dealing with neurofeedback also requires devoting substantial amounts of time. Patients are frequently expected to attend a few sessions in a week which sometimes clashes with their work, school or even family duties.
Can Neurofeedback Create Placebo Effects?
Yes, neurofeedback can create placebo effects, where perceived improvements may stem from belief in the therapy rather than actual changes.
The illusion of a placebo can affect neurofeedback treatment either positively or negatively. Some patients may gain from their belief in the therapy, while others realize that they have been misled.
Also, unrealistic expectations may arise from the hype surrounding neurofeedback. So, some patients, after going through this course, can feel disappointed since they look at neurofeedback as a “ miracle cure” for their condition. This disappointment takes a toll on them emotionally and leads to a sense of despair or frustration.
Are there any negative side effects of neurofeedback?
Yes, neurofeedback can cause negative side effects like headaches, fatigue, mood swings, or increased anxiety, particularly with overtraining.
Headache, fatigue, dizziness, and irritability are among the side effects caused by this therapy. These symptoms are usually temporary and decrease within several sessions. Properly trained professionals reduce these hazards through personalized approaches and gradual adjustments in the healing method based on the patient’s requirements.
Can neurofeedback worsen depression?
Yes, neurofeedback can potentially worsen depression by exacerbating symptoms or causing emotional instability if not tailored properly.
If this procedure is done incorrectly, it can instead worsen depression. A practitioner who is fully trained should be overseeing the whole process to avoid any negative side effects that may arise. Some people may experience worsening symptoms before they improve.
Are neurofeedback results permanent?
Neurofeedback results may not be permanent; ongoing sessions and reinforcement may be needed to maintain improvements over time.
The permanency of neurofeedback results varies from one person to another. This assists the brain in learning self-regulation abilities and creating long-lasting changes. Nevertheless, like any other skill, its effects can go away without intervention. Periodical booster sessions could maintain these improvements.
What does neurofeedback do to the brain?
Neurofeedback trains the brain to regulate its activity patterns, potentially improving cognitive function, emotional regulation, and mental health.
Training the brain with neurofeedback involves real-time feedback on brainwave activity so as to enhance its function. It helps develop healthier brain patterns that improve self-regulation and optimize performance. It usually leads to better cognitive function, emotional stability. It also reduces symptoms for a number of neurological as well as psychological conditions.
What are the drawbacks of neurofeedback?
Drawbacks of neurofeedback include high costs, variability in effectiveness, potential side effects, and lack of standardized protocols.
Limitations associated with neurofeedback include initial discomfort that might occur during the treatment process, the necessity of multiple sessions, and the high cost involved. The results are not usually uniform. Some might benefit from it, while others might not.
Getting the therapy done by a professional practitioner is important for safety. It helps one achieve the desired outcomes. At the same time, this alternative healing modality demands commitment and time investment from the patient’s end.
Conclusion
However, before commencing on this therapy patients should approach it realistically while assessing its nature but also bearing in mind its potential shortcomings. The best way to approach this therapy would involve patients doing extensive homework about the practitioners, the financial burden, the time commitment and potential side effects.
Do remember that this therapy might not suit everybody. So, be sure to consult a health professional before trying this therapy for yourself.
