EEG Neurofeedback in Norfolk County, Boston

A Brief Guide to EEG Brainwave Frequencies

Neurofeedback therapy, available in Mansfield and Norfolk County, is a cutting-edge new approach to managing the symptoms of a wide variety of disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorder, migraine headaches, and other psychological and pain disorders. Neurofeedback therapy uses electroencephalography (EEG), in which electrodes are attached to the scalp to measure the frequencies of electrical oscillations generated by collections of cells in different regions of the brain. Research has indicated that many conditions, including ADHD and anxiety, are associated with abnormal brainwave frequencies in certain areas of the brain that differ from those of “normal” individuals. Neurofeedback uses sound and images, often in a video game like setup, to teach individuals to consciously alter these frequencies to improve psychological or pain symptoms. There are several types of brainwave frequencies, which are associated with different states of consciousness and types of mental activity. These neural oscillations are referred to as “brainwaves” because, when displayed as an EEG reading or expressed using mathematical equations, they take the form of a wave. There are alpha, beta, theta, gamma, and delta frequencies. This article is a brief beginner’s guide to what these frequencies mean.

Alpha Brainwaves

Alpha waves are defined as neural oscillations that fall within the frequency range of 7.5-12.5 Hz. Alpha waves are notably generated in the occipital lobes, the region of the cortex at the back of the brain associated with visual processing, when a person is awake with their eyes closed. Alpha frequencies are associated with relaxation. Early work with EEG neurofeedback was focused on training people to enter the “alpha state” more easily. Alpha biofeedback has potential applications for treating depression, as well as seizures. Some types of zen meditation are associated with increased alpha waves. They are associated with a mentally restful state, as opposed to active mental attention.

Beta Brainwaves

Beta brainwaves have frequencies ranging from 12.5 to 30 Hz. Beta states, unlike alpha states, are associated with normal waking consciousness and active mental attention. Neurofeedback therapy for ADHD involves using EEG feedback to change from alpha to beta frequencies in certain areas of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex, to increase attention and reduce impulsiveness.

Delta Brainwaves

Delta brainwaves are high-amplitude, low-frequency brainwaves that fall in the range of 0-4 Hz. Delta waves are most strongly associated with deep non-REM stages of sleep, which is known as “slow-wave sleep.” EEG studies of infants and young children have shown that infants spend a lot of time in slow-wave sleep, and that even during wakefulness, children from infancy to as old as five years produce delta waves. Disruptions of delta states are implicated in a number of disorders. For example, in fibromyalgia, research using EEG neuroimaging has revealed the presence of alpha wave intrusion during sleep, when alpha waves appear when actually delta waves should be predominant. This involvement of brainwave frequency in sleep in people with fibromyalgia has led researchers to explore the potential of neurofeedback therapy for treating this difficult and pervasive disorder. Another disorder involving delta-wave dysregulation is schizophrenia. Reduced delta wave activity during sleep, along with increased delta activity during wakefulness, have been shown to correlate with negative symptoms of the disorder such as amotivation, poverty of speech, and the inability to experience pleasure. Disrupted delta wave activity is found in a wide range of other disorders, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and narcolepsy.

Theta Rhythms

Theta brainwave rhythms have frequencies of 4-7 Hz, and are detectable with EEG sensors when emitted in the cortex. Cortical theta is most common in young children. In adults, it often appears in drowsy or deeply meditative states, though not in the deepest stages of sleep. It is associated with REM sleep (rapid eye movement), which is when most dreams occur.

Gamma Brainwaves

Gamma frequencies range in frequency from 25-100 Hz. Research into gamma waves has provided evidence that these frequencies may be heavily involved in what we experience as subjective consciousness. These frequencies have been observed in association with the coordination and synchronization of different brain areas involved in conscious awareness, notably visual awareness. Interestingly, EEG neuroimaging research involving monks in meditative states have demonstrated a correlation between gamma activity and transcendental states of consciousness. In a 2004 study, when Tibetan monks were instructed to generate a sense of compassion, they correspondingly generated rhythmic, coherent activity in the 25-40 Hz range. Gamma synchrony may be involved in the bliss, compassion, and tranquility associated with transcendental meditative states. Neurofeedback training may one day be used to help train novice meditators to achieve these states of consciousness, although scientists are still exploring the role of gamma waves in consciousness.

Neurofeedback therapy in Mansfield works by using EEG measurements of brainwave frequencies to help train people to learn to alter their brainwave frequencies at will. Many psychological and pain disorders, including ADHD, anxiety, and fibromyalgia, have been shown to involve underlying brainwave dysregulation. Using neurofeedback therapy, you can actually learn to change these frequencies at will. For example, a child in Mansfield with ADHD may have excessive alpha activity in some brain areas, and can be trained to change to beta frequencies associated with mental focus and concentration. Neurofeedback therapy in Mansfield is an excellent therapy option, and lacks many of the side effects associated with various medications.

EEG NEUROFEEDBACK - HOW IT WORKS

Concussion Treatment in Boston

How Doctors Handle A Blow to the Head 

A concussion is defined as a brief and transient loss of consciousness, often with a brief period of amnesia, resulting from a blunt impact to the head. The most common causes of concussions are falls, car or bicycle accidents, and sports injuries. Concussions can vary in severity. Although there is not one classification system for concussion severity that is universally agreed upon, the American Academy of Neurology guidelines divide concussions into grades:

·         Grade I: There is no loss of consciousness, and symptoms of confusion and disorientation last for less than 15 minutes.

·         Grade II: There is no loss of consciousness, but symptoms of confusion and disorientation last for longer than 15 minutes.

·         Grade IIIa: There is a loss of consciousness lasting for less than a minute.

·         Grade IIIb: There is a loss of consciousness lasting for minutes.

In movies and television shows, it is not uncommon for a character to be struck on the head and lose consciousness, and then “come to” hours later. This is highly unrealistic; the longer someone is unconscious as a result of a concussion, the more severe the concussion and the higher the risk of permanent brain damage. In real life someone will not lose consciousness from a head impact for hours on end and then wake up perfectly fine!

Concussion treatment is usually the domain of a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of nervous system injuries and disorders. When a concussion results in loss of consciousness, the person often experiences some degree of amnesia as well. This may take the form of anterograde amnesia, the inability to retain new information, or retrograde amnesia, the inability to remember what happened before the injury. In most cases, the amnesia improves in a matter of hours, and does not result in a loss of autobiographical information such as the person’s name and birthday. 

How do Doctors in Boston Respond to a Concussion? 

When a concussion occurs, even a Grade I concussion, medical attention should be sought right away. Proper concussion treatment is important to evaluate the severity of the injury, the extent of damage, and to plan for appropriate treatment. The first step after a concussion is often to check the patient for any sign of neck injury. If the patient has neck pain, this could indicate a neck injury, and cervical immobilization is usually required. The next matter of concern is whether the impact has caused a brain hematoma. A hematoma is a collection of blood outside the blood vessels. This is very serious, but fortunately, less than 10% of concussions result in hematoma, and less than 2% require neurosurgical intervention. A hematoma can be detected with a CT (cranial computed tomography) scan. A neurological evaluation is given, with signs like poor arousal or hemiparesis indicating the need for a CT scan. The patient will also be evaluated to ensure that the skull has not been fractured.

After the concussion, the patient will need to be monitored for a period of time. Usually, a person with a normal neurologic examination after a minor concussion will be observed for two hours. If the patient’s CT scan has revealed small surface contusions on the brain or limited hemorrhage, which may not produce symptoms beyond a headache, a longer period of observation or overnight hospital stay may be required.  

After the Concussion: Watching for Signs of Post-Concussion Syndrome 

Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a constellation of symptoms that may persist for days, weeks, or even longer after a concussion occurs. It is estimated that a post-concussion syndrome occurs in around 15% of patients who have had a concussion, and it generally subsides after a period of time. 

Symptoms that indicate a post-concussion syndrome include:

·         Headache

·         Dizziness

·         Blurred vision or double vision

·         Ringing in the ears

·         Increased sensitivity to light or noise

·         Insomnia, fatigue, or other sleep problems

·         Irritability

·         Anxiety

·         Depression

·         Mood swings

·         Changes in personality

·         Problems with attention and memory, especially short-term memory

·         Cognitive deficits

Concussion treatment for post-concussion syndrome in Boston generally involves treating individual symptoms. Pain relievers may be used for headaches, antidepressants for mood changes, and sleep aids for insomnia. About 50% of people with post-concussion syndrome are referred for psychotherapy as part of their concussion treatment. Evidence has shown psychotherapy to be effective in reducing cognitive and affective symptoms associated with PCS. Neurofeedback therapy has also shown promise as a treatment for PCS.

With proper concussion treatment and management of a post-concussion syndrome, if it occurs, most patients have an excellent prognosis. Symptoms usually resolve completely over time, and approximately 67% of concussion patients are symptom-free three months after the injury. Excellent concussion treatment is available in Boston, both to evaluate damage and severity after the injury, and also to manage a post-concussion syndrome, if it occurs. Recently, neurofeedback therapy has become available in the Boston area, providing an exciting and highly effective new approach to managing post-concussion syndromes. Thanks to advancements in modern medicine, most people who suffer a concussion have a favorable outcome.

BOSTON - NEUROFEEDBACK THERAPY FOR BRAIN INJURY 

Three Things That Might Be Worsening Your Anxiety

Three Things That Might Be Worsening Your Anxiety

Many people in Foxborough suffer from anxiety. For some people, it’s a normal emotional response to life stressors and will subside over time; for others, it’s a chronic state and is part of a full-blown anxiety disorder. If you are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, or even if you’re just acutely stressed out from work, school, or relationship problems, you may be making your anxiety worse. There are three common things that can increase your anxiety: caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. These can be particularly problematic if you have generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or panic disorder. Fortunately, by reducing your use of these three items, you may be able to improve your symptoms.

#1: Caffeine

Almost all adults in Foxborough consume some amount of caffeine on a daily basis, often without thinking about it. Some of us can’t get our day started without that morning cup of coffee; others prefer tea or energy drinks. Even if you’re not a caffeine junkie and don’t care for coffee, you may still be caffeinating without even realizing it. Many sodas, including colas, Dr. Pepper, Mountain Dew, and even Sunkist, contain a significant amount of caffeine. If you’ve ever had one too many shots of espresso, than you know firsthand that caffeine can make you jittery and on-edge. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant, and too much of it can worsen anxiety symptoms. You may be able to keep your anxiety and tension at bay by being mindful of how much caffeine you’re ingesting. A cup of coffee has an average of 80 mg of caffeine per 8 ounces. Sodas generally have 30-40 mg, and green tea has about 60 mg. Keeping it under 200 mg per day is a good rule of thumb, if you really feel like you need caffeine.

#2: Nicotine

Like caffeine, nicotine is a central nervous system stimulant. If you smoke, chew tobacco, or use other tobacco products, which contain nicotine, it’s probably a habit and you may not realize its stimulant effects. Some studies have shown that nicotine increases the risk of someone developing an anxiety disorder, as well as worsening the symptoms of anxiety. Quitting smoking is quite difficult, but reducing how much you smoke (or chew) per day can be a step in the right direction and can help calm your nerves and prevent anxiety symptoms from flaring up. You may also want to talk to a doctor in Foxborough to see about getting help to quit smoking for good.

#3: Alcohol

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that produces feelings of ease and mild euphoria. Alcohol in moderate amounts, consumed relatively infrequently, may appear to ease anxiety; however, this effect is largely illusory. In the longer term, alcohol exacerbates anxiety. If you have an anxiety disorder, you may want to be careful with your alcohol consumption. There is a high correlation between alcohol abuse and anxiety disorder, which may be due to underlying genetic factors that predispose an individual to both conditions. Because alcohol can temporarily relieve anxiety, a person may fall into the habit of using alcohol as a coping mechanism. This is neither healthy nor effective. This isn’t to say that you can never drink at all, but moderation is a must. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “at-risk drinking” can be defined as a woman who drinks more than seven drinks in a week or more than three drinks on one occasion; for men, the numbers are 14 drinks per week or more than four drinks on one occasion. Having a glass of wine or a cocktail every once in a while is generally okay, and may even have positive effects on cardiovascular health. However, excessive drinking can cause heightened anxiety and increasingly negative emotional states. If you suffer from anxiety, remain mindful of how much and how often you’re drinking. Also, it may be wise to pay attention to your reasons for drinking. A drink or two as a “social lubricant” is one thing, but if you drink for the purpose of relieving your anxiety, you may be at risk for developing alcohol abuse or dependency.

 If you have anxiety in Foxborough, or even if you’re just suffering from normal levels of stress, you could inadvertently be making it worse by excessive caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol consumption. Taking care to reduce your caffeine and nicotine usage, as well as avoiding excessive alcohol, may help reduce your anxiety symptoms.

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR ANXIETY

PTSD Help - War Veteran Shares Journey to Recovery

PTSD help for veterans remains a challenge both from a social and scientific perspective. In this video, Jake Walsh shares the remarkable story of how he discovered a life-changing PTSD therapy that helped lead him on the path to recovery. Known as neurofeedback therapy, this remarkable and drug-free treatment alternative is becoming increasingly popular with veterans and the families who support them.
As Jake says:

"I was in Iraq for 15 months during 06-07, I have PTSD which is where BrainCore comes in. I began neurofeedback in November I believe and have done nearly 40 sessions in the last 6 months. When I started, I had trouble sleeping, anxiety, depression, I would ruminate, withdraw, forget things, couldn't focus, and since then I have seen a decrease or an elimination of those symptoms."

Jake is interviewed by Stefan Georgi of Market Taffy, LLC, and Dianne Kosto, founder of BrainCore of the Lowcountry, an organization that is is leading the way in providing PTSD help to veterans through neurofeedback.


To find out more about BrainCore Therapy and neurofeedback for PTSD, please visit;
http://www.braincoreofthelowcountry.com
http://www.braincoreofgreaterboston.com

Please visit Jake's foundation: www.honorourheroesfoundation.org

Natural Relief for Headaches

Today in our busy society, the stress of family demands and work stress combined with not enough rest often manifests itself in the form of headaches. When a headache occurs, we tend to reach for painkillers, such as acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen; however, there are natural alternatives to these drugs.

Ginger Tea

Add about an inch of crushed ginger root to boiling water. This homemade tea will work to reduce inflammation in about the same amount of time it takes an aspirin to work. It has been used for centuries in Asia to treat a number of ailments including stomachaches, nausea, and diarrhea.

Capsaicin Cream

Apply a small amount of capsaicin cream to the inside of your nostril that’s on the side of your head where you are experiencing pain. The active ingredient in this cream is cayenne pepper, and the cream works to block nerve pain signals.

Feverfew

Feverfew has been shown to be effective for treating migraines by reducing inflammation, which takes pressure off the nerves and can help prevent migraines entirely.

Butterbur

Butterbur has been used medicinally since the middle ages, and butterbur extract can be taken daily to help reduce the number and severity of headaches. You may purchase it in capsules, powder, or tincture, and it is thought to have both antispasmodic effects and anti-inflammatory properties.

Magnesium

Magnesium helps to calm nerves, which tend to get overexcited during a migraine. Some studies have found that migraine sufferers tend to be deficient in magnesium. You can also increase your magnesium by taking a multivitamin that contains magnesium or by eating foods like broccoli, beans, soy milk, nuts, or spinach.

Hydrotherapy

Stand in water as hot as you can stand for two minutes (this increases blood flow to the skin), then as cold as you can stand for two minutes (this sends blood to the core of the body). Alternate back and forth for 20 minutes to increase blood flow and circulation, bringing nutrients to organs and carrying away toxins.

Cold (or Hot) Compress

Apply an icepack to your head, making sure not to put the ice directly on your head. You can wrap ice or a bag of frozen vegetables in a towel. Apply heat to the back of the neck with a hot shower, bath, or heating pad. Heat can loosen up the muscles that tighten with tension headaches.

Progressive Relaxation

Progressive muscle relaxation helps you to consciously concentrate on relaxing every muscle in your body beginning at your toes and working all the way up to your head. By reducing muscular tension, this will help reduce pain. There are two steps to progressive muscle relaxation:

1.      First, you deliberately apply tension to certain muscle groups

2.      Secondly, you stop the tension and turn your attention to noticing how the muscles relax as the tension flows away.

When headache pain invades your body, before you reach for a medicinal pain reliever, remember there are numerous alternative methods for relieving headache pain.

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR HEADACHES/ MIGRAINES

St. John’s Wort: An Herbal Remedy for Milder Forms of Depression

Depression

Although Major Depressive Disorder can be very severe and debilitating, there are also milder forms of depression. “Dysthymia” is a disorder related to depression, but with a milder degree of emotional disturbance; “minor depressive disorder” is another label sometimes used for individuals whose depression is to a less extreme extent, or who meet some but not all of the criteria for being diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder. Clinical depression is usually treated with a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medications. Although antidepressants can be quite effective for treating the symptoms of depression, they also have a range of potentially negative side-effects. For less intense cases of depression, some evidence suggests that St. John’s Wort may be effective in lieu of prescription antidepressants like Zoloft or Lexapro. 

What is St. John’s Wort? 

St. John’s Wort, also known as Hypericum perforatum, is a flowering plant native to Europe. Historically, it has been used as a medicinal herb. Modern research supports the hypothesis that St. John’s Wort may be quite effective for depression. In some studies, it has been shown not only to be superior to a placebo, but to be equally as effective as standard SSRIs like Zoloft. Like SSRIs, which work by inhibiting reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin, St. John’s Wort is thought to have its effects by inhibiting serotonin reuptake. Reuptake inhibition increases the available amount of serotonin, a neurotransmitter used in communication between brain cells that is strongly involved in processes involving mood regulation. 

What Makes St. John’s Wort Effective for Depression? 

St. John’s Wort contains numerous chemical compounds. There are two main chemicals that are thought to be tied to the herb’s effect on mood regulation.

·         Hyperforin is a chemical that acts as a reuptake inhibitor for a class of neuro-chemically important compounds called “monoamines”, including serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, GABA, and glutamate.

·         Hypericin is another active component found in St. Jon’s Wort that is implicated in its efficacy for treating depression. Along with hyperforin, it helps to give the plant effects similar to MAOI inhibitors, an older form of antidepressant medication.

  

Are Any Risks and Side Effects Associated with St. John’s Wort? 

St. John’s Wort has relatively few side effects, although you should always consult with your physician before beginning any medicine, herb, or supplement. Studies have found it to be less problematic than commercial SSRIs such as Zoloft and Prozac in terms of negative side effects, although the following effects can occur when taking St. John’s Wort:

·         Difficulty sleeping

·         Unusually vivid dreams

·         Stomach upset

·         Fatigue

·         Skin rash

·         Heightened sensitivity to light

Although it has fewer side effects than most depression medications, chemicals contained in St. John’s Wort can interact with other drugs. You should NOT take St. John’s Wort if you are taking one of the following medications:

·         Alprazolam (Xanax). St. John’s Wort can cause the body to excrete the active components of Xanax more quickly, possibly decreasing its effectiveness.

·         Aminolevulinic acid. Both this medicine and St. John’s Wort can increase your sensitivity to sunlight and increase your risk of sunburn.

·         Amitryptaline (Elavil). As with Xanax, St. John’s Wort can cause the body to break this medicine down more quickly, decreasing its effectiveness.

·         Birth control pills. These pills usually contain estrogen; St. John’s Wort can make the body break the estrogen down more quickly.

·         Cyclosporine may have reduced effectiveness when combined with St. John’s Wort.

·         Digoxin may be less effective with St. John’s Wort.

·         Fenfluramine works on serotonin, so if it is taken with St. John’s Wort it can cause there to be too much serotonin, which causes anxiety and nausea.

·         Many antidepressants, especially SSRIs like Celexa, Zoloft, Prozac, and Lexapro, should not be combined with St John’s Wort, in order to avoid too much serotonin.

This is only a partial list of drugs that St. John’s Wort can interact with. If you are considering trying Saint John’s Wort for mild to moderate depression, you should talk to your doctor beforehand to assess the risks of interactions with other medications.

St. John’s Wort is very safe overall, and produces few side effects. Clinical studies have indicated that for mild to moderate depression, it may be as effective as many antidepressants--- without the negative side effects. 

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR DEPRESSION

Boston Neurofeedback - Interview with Dianne Kosto of BrainCore Therapy

BrainCore of Greater Boston offers neurofeedback to residents in Mansfield, Foxboro, and surrounding areas. BrainCore Therapy is a drugless, painless, and non-invasive approach to addressing the symptoms of many common neurological conditions including: ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Migraines, PTSD, and Autism. In this video, Stefan Georgi of Market Taffy, LLC chats with BrainCore of Boston founder Dianne Kosto about how neurofeedback works, and how residents of Boston can benefit from it. She also talks about her own personal journey, and why she believes neurofeedback saved her son's life.

Watch this video on YouTube: Boston Neurofeedback
Learn more about BrainCore of Greater Boston 

Massachusetts Services for Brain Injury

What You Need to Know 

The Massachusetts State Division of Health and Human Services offers disability services for people who have sustained an externally caused traumatic brain injury. According to online information provided by the department, “externally caused traumatic brain injury” is damage to the brain caused by an external injury. For example, if you suffer a concussion or open head injury in a car accident because you slammed against the windshield in an impact, that is an externally caused brain injury; however, injury due to a stroke, drug overdose, viral or bacterial disease, or other internal event, would not qualify. 

The Massachusetts Statewide Head Injury Program, or “SHIP”, offers state residents a number of services for brain injury due to external injury. Brain injuries can be truly debilitating, resulting in loss of vision, hearing, memory, impulse control, cognition, language capacity, and countless other abilities controlled within the brain. 

What Kinds of Services for Brain Injury Are Available to SHIP Applicants? 

The SHIP program offers several services for brain injury to qualifying applicants, including:

·         Assistive Technology. SHIP offers assistance in obtaining devices that may be necessary for people who have suffered traumatic brain injury. This includes equipment such as medication dispensers, reach extenders, grab bars and shower chairs, and communication devices. A traumatic brain injury can inhibit a person’s ability to speak or coordinate motor movements effectively, depending on what part or parts of the brain sustained damage.

·         Community-Based Support Services. These types of services are important for helping with rehabilitation and general quality of life for individuals with brain damage. This may include the assignment of a case manager to assess the person’s needs and coordinate services; community support workers to help the person learn and use daily living skills or to assist with day-to-day tasks like grocery shopping or driving to doctor’s appointments that the injured person may no longer be able to do on their own; individual aides to provide support and companionship; and residential services for injured persons needing “around-the-clock” care and support as a result of their injuries.

·         Regional Service Centers. The SHIP program operates four community-based service centers for eligible individuals. These service centers provide support and opportunities that help brain injury victims regain independence and daily living skills. The centers are located in Boston, Cape Cod, Western Massachusetts, and Southeastern Massachusetts.

·         Respite Services exist to provide relief for full-time caregivers of individuals who have been disabled by a brain injury. This includes in-home respite, as well as up to two weeks of out-of-home respite in a 24-hour treatment facility.

·         Family Assistance Programs. SHIP can provide clinical consultants to help brain-damaged individuals and their families develop in-home strategies to address changes in capabilities resulting from traumatic brain injury, as well as assistance in identifying and addressing clinical treatment needs.

·         Social and Recreation Programs are also among SHIP’s services for brain damage. Each program has an activities coordinator; recreational activities include museums, sporting events, bowling, trips to amusement parks, and craft nights, to name only a few of the recreational options.

·         Substance Abuse Treatment is also available through SHIP for individuals with TBI who are also recovering from addiction. 

How Do I Find Out If I Qualify for SHIP? 

To be eligible for SHIP services, you must be a resident of the state of Massachusetts and have documented externally caused brain injury. You must also, as a result of your injury, have impaired behavioral, cognitive, social, motor, or other functioning. After you apply for SHIP, your medical documentation will be reviewed to confirm your eligibility. People of all ages and income levels are eligible. 

If you or a loved one are a Massachusetts resident who has sustained externally caused brain damage, and have suffered impairments in mental or physical functioning as a result, you may be eligible for SHIP. To find out more about what SHIP has to offer and whether you qualify for assistance with services for brain injury, you can visit the following website: http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/consumer/disability-services/services-by-type/head-injury/. Or, you can call for information at (617)-204-3852 OR toll-free at (800)-223-2559. You can also request information by emailing SHIPU@MRC.state.ma.us. If you or someone close to you has been mentally or physically compromised by an externally caused brain injury, SHIP can help you find and coordinate the treatment and rehabilitation services you need.

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR BRAIN INJURY SUFFERERS

Lifestyle Tips for Dealing with Anxiety

Many people suffer from some form of anxiety disorder. Everyone feels anxiety from time to time, such as when final exams are approaching; a big job interview comes around; or when faced with financial problems. However, an anxiety disorder goes beyond normal anxiety, with feelings of worry and fear that are disproportionately overwhelming and may not even be attached to an identifiable trigger.

If you have an anxiety disorder, the best thing to do is to seek treatment. Some people are more predisposed toward anxiety than others, for reasons related to genetics and brain structure. Anxiety can be managed on a psychosocial level, with psychotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy; on a neurochemical level, with medications that correct chemical imbalances in the brain; and with neurofeedback therapy, which corrects underlying brainwave dysregulation associated with anxiety. A psychiatrist, counselor, or clinical psychologist can find a treatment plan that works best for you.

In the meantime, if you are dealing with anxiety on a daily basis, there are a few changes you can make to your diet and sleeping habits that may help you reduce and cope with your anxiety.

·         Eliminate foods and drinks that cause or contribute to anxiety. For many people, this means caffeine. Coffee, energy drinks, and other caffeinated beverages can cause or exacerbate anxiety due to the drug’s stimulant effects.

·         Avoid starches and sugars. When stressed out, many people reach for starchy or sugary foods as “comfort foods,” but these can actually worsen your anxiety later on by causing fluctuations in blood sugar.

·         Avoid excessive alcohol. Although some people feel a few drinks may help them unwind, others may actually feel more anxious or depressed if they become too inebriated. Alcohol also creates unpleasant hangover effects.

·         Exercise can help relieve anxiety. Exercise causes the release of mood-boosting, anxiety-reducing endorphins, an effect that persists for hours after you finish your workout. Cardiovascular exercises, such as running or cycling, are great for stress relief. You may also try yoga or tai chi, which incorporates meditation and breathing techniques that makes them highly relaxing.

·         Try deep breathing exercises. Remain mindful of your breathing, especially if you begin to feel worried or stressed. Slow, deep breathing has a direct effect on your heart rate and can reduce anxiety.

·         Avoid commitments and situations that will exacerbate your anxiety levels. You can’t always run away from what causes your anxiety, and social anxieties and phobias have to be overcome by exposure and desensitization. You may want to avoid taking on too many work tasks or interpersonal commitments if an overloaded schedule will cause your anxiety to flare up. Remember, it’s okay to say no.

·         Get enough sleep. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help reduce cortisol, a stress hormone. Herbal remedies or melatonin supplements can help with this, if needed.

If you have an anxiety disorder, you should seek mental health treatment to address the underlying issues that are causing your anxiety. There are several strategies that can help you deal with anxiety, and  plenty of rest and good nutrition are necessary for overall health and wellness, including mental health. 

Identifying and Treating Anxiety Disorders in Foxboro

If you’re feeling fearful in Foxboro, you may actually be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Anxiety is characterized by overwhelming feelings of extreme fearfulness and worry, beyond what would qualify as a rational response. Although a person with anxiety may recognize that their feelings don’t quite make sense, they still cannot control these emotions. 

The symptoms of anxiety include:

·         Excessive worry

·         Excessive fearfulness

·         Irritability

·         Panic attacks

·         Shaking and trembling

·         Headaches

·         Stomachaches

·         Sweating

·         Trembling

·         Accelerated heart rate

·         Difficulty concentrating

·         Impaired performance at school or work

·         Interference of anxiety with relationships

There are several anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, phobic disorder, and panic disorder.

Medications for Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are frequently treated with prescription medications, usually selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines. SSRIs are often used as a long-term anxiety treatment. These drugs can take several weeks to begin working effectively, but are often effective for reducing anxiety symptoms. Many anxiety patients have good results with SSRIs, but other people find that the side effects are highly problematic. 

Side effects of SSRIs often include: 

·         Lack of energy

·         Increased appetite

·         Weight gain

·         Impairment of sexual desire and performance

·         Stomach upset

·         Nausea

·         Headaches

·         Drowsiness or somnolence

While SSRIs are a long-term treatment modality, more immediate anxiety relief is often found in benzodiazepines like Xanax. Although Xanax can “mellow out” an anxious person, benzodiazepines are not without side effects, including:

·         Memory deficits

·         Impaired coordination

·         Lightheadedness

·         Changes in appetite

·         Fatigue

·         Drowsiness

·         Impaired concentration

·         Unsteadiness, trembling, or other problems with muscle control

·         Unusual weakness or tiredness

·         Abdominal pain

·         Blurred vision

·         Increased appetite

·         Changes in sexual desire

·         Weight gain

·         Interference with menstrual cycle

Like SSRIs, benzodiazepines treat the symptoms of anxiety by altering neurotransmitter levels, but at the cost of side effects that can sometimes be more problematic than the original anxiety was. Xanax and other benzodiazepines are known for their tendency to be habit-forming, which needs to be taken into consideration when these medications are prescribed. People occasionally become addicted to the pleasant emotional sensations associated with Xanax, and long-term misuse can have adverse health consequences.

Managing Anxiety with NeurofeedbackTherapy

Neurofeedback therapy is a promising alternative to drug-based therapies for anxiety disorders. In neurofeedback therapy for anxiety, EEG (electroencephalographic) neuroimaging technology is used to identify dysregulation in electrical frequencies in areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. People with anxiety disorder often emit abnormally high levels of beta brainwave frequencies, associated with concentration and mentally alert states in certain regions of the brain. Neurofeedback therapy can be used to train individuals to alter these brainwaves to more relaxed alpha and theta states, which can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety. Neurofeedback training occurs over numerous sessions by a trial-and-error learning process, but can cause lasting changes in the brain that allow its benefits to persist long after therapy is completed. Neurofeedback is a useful alternative or addition to pharmaceutical anxiety therapies, and is known for its complete lack of negative side effects. During 40 years of research on neurofeedback therapy, it has repeatedly been proven to be safe and side-effect-free. Neurofeedback participants also report undergoing therapy is a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Neurofeedback therapy is now available in Foxboro and may be a helpful addition for managing your anxiety.

Anxiety disorders are characterized by constant, overwhelming feelings of fear and worry, often to an irrational extent and without any identifiable cause. There are several types of anxiety disorders, all of which can be managed with cognitive-behavioral therapy, prescription medications, and neurofeedback therapy. Anxiety can be a debilitating condition causing significant impairment in academic and occupational performance, in the person’s overall sense of well-being, and in interpersonal relationships; however, it is treatable and many people have successfully overcome anxiety.

NEUROFEEDBACK IN FOXBORO

The Three Types of PTSD Symptoms

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, better known as PTSD, is a psychiatric condition that occurs in people who have been exposed to traumatic events. People who have experienced the horrors of war and combat can develop PTSD, but it can also occur in victims of sexual assault, victims of child or domestic abuse, and other traumatic events. There are three main categories of PTSD symptoms:

·         Re-experiencing symptoms

·         Avoidance and numbing symptoms

·         Hyperarousal symptoms

To qualify for a diagnosis of PTSD, a person must experience one or more re-experiencing symptoms, at least three avoidance and numbness symptoms, and at least two hyperarousal symptoms for at least one month.

“Re-Experiencing Symptoms” in PTSD

Re-experiencing symptoms in PTSD involve reliving the traumatic event. These symptoms may include:

·         Flashbacks or extremely vivid and intrusive memories

·         Recurring distressing dreams

·         Intense negative reactions to things that remind the person of the traumatic event

These symptoms can strike seemingly without warning in response to a trigger that reminds the person of the event. The memories may be so vivid that the person feels like they are literally experiencing the event again, along with all the feelings of fear and helplessness.

Avoidance and Numbing Symptoms in PTSD

The second set of PTSD symptoms involves avoidance of things that remind the person of the traumatic experience, and emotional numbing as a reaction to overpowering fear and helplessness.

·         Avoidance of stimuli that remind the person of the trauma, including certain conversation topics or things that remind the person of the event.

·         Avoidance of behaviors, places, or people that might cause an intrusive memory of the event

·         Inability to recall major parts of the trauma

·         Loss of capacity to feel certain emotions; feeling “emotionally numb”

Hyperarousal Symptoms in PTSD

An individual with PTSD may often be in a state of hyperarousal or hypervigilance. This set of PTSD symptoms includes:

·         Difficulty sleeping

·         Angry outbursts

·         Being tense or “on-edge” much of the time

·         Easily startled

Are PTSD Symptoms Different in Children than In Adults?

In children younger than age six, there are some behavioral markers that can result from PTSD that are not found in adults. This includes some regression:

·         Bedwetting or soiling themselves, when they had been previously potty-trained

·         Forgetting how to talk, or being unable to talk

·         Acting out the traumatic event in play

·         Unusally clingy with a trusted adult

The symptoms of PTSD cause marked psychological distress and interfere significantly with the person’s quality of life. There are treatments for PTSD, including talk therapy, medications, or a combination of the two. Talk therapies can help the person identify and deal with the guilt, shame, fear, and other feelings that are a result from the traumatic event. A qualified therapist can help them face the bad memories and make sense of what happened and how they feel about it. Along with psychotherapy, medications like Zoloft or Paxil are sometimes used to treat chemical imbalances in the brain that are associated with PTSD symptoms. 

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR PTSD

NEUROFEEDBACK IN BOSTON

Holistic Medicine in Mansfield

Treating The Body as a Unified Whole

Holistic medicine is a field of alternative medicine that emphasizes the overall wellness of a person as a whole. Usually, medical problems are treated in isolation. The holistic health approach emphasizes the importance of the whole, rather than focusing exclusively on the part. All of the cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems of a human body work together to form the whole. If one part is not working correctly, it can affect the system in its entirety. Holistic medicine also emphasizes the importance of mental and spiritual wellness in ensuring and maintaining physical wellness.

Principles of Holistic Medicine

The American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA), the major American organization for practitioners of holistic medicine, has compiled a list of Principles of Holistic Medicine. These principles include:

·         Searching for the underlying cause of a disease is better than treating the symptoms alone.

·         What kind of patient has a disease is as important as what kind of disease the patient has.

·         Prevention is the best approach to treatment.

·         Illness is a manifestation of a dysfunction of a whole person, not just an isolated part of that person.

·         The quality of the relationship between a patient and healthcare provider is important to the outcome of treatment.

·         A physician-patient relationship should take into consideration the needs, desires, awareness, and insight of the patient, as well as the physician.

·         Physicians influence patients by their example.

·         Illness, pain, and the dying process can be learning opportunities for physicians and patients alike.

·         Holistic physicians encourage patients to embrace positive emotions and a positive outlook, and to let go of greed, anger, fear, and other forms of negativity.

·         Physicians should strive to practice unconditional love for themselves and their patients

·         Health is more than the absence of sickness. It is a pursuit of the highest qualities of physical, mental, spiritual, and environmental aspects of the human experience.

hOLISTIC MEDICINE IN MANSFIELD