Johnson, not his real name, a man from Levittown suffered from bipolar disorder since he was a young man. The mood swings between excessive behaviors and depression were difficult for him and his family. Medication was barely touching his symptoms, making life challenging. Even though he faithfully took his medication, emotional and behavioral fluctuations were still evident. Many times the changes took the form of anger which made interactions with others very difficult and often destructive or challenging to the relationship. Work interactions were equally challenging to manage daily.
Johnson came to neurofeedback after learning about its effectiveness with bipolar disorder. He was hopeful that he could discontinue the medication which he thought was largely ineffective.
Johnson began treatment and his moods remained stable over time. Training for depression, a component of the disorder, was also included. Eventually he began to question his need for medication. This was a matter for him and his prescribing doctor. Slowly as Johnson weaned off his medication with supervision, he noticed that he remained stable and there were still no mood swings. He became very encouraged, and as his treatment progressed and he continued to feel better for longer periods of time, his sessions were spaced farther apart.
Neurofeedback is an effective treatment for bipolar disorder because it stabilizes moods and reduces depression. Once the new brainwave patterns are established over time, treatment is slowly withdrawn until the symptoms are gone.
Neurofeedback training is like learning a sport or an instrument; much practice is needed. It works by rewarding the desirable brainwaves which over time become more permanent. Gradually, the individual can be weaned off neurofeedback treatment as sessions are less frequent.
Bipolar disorder is an instability in the temporal lobes, meaning that there is an instability in the brain wave patterns. Neurofeedback is a satisfactory treatment for bipolar disorder by stabilizing the brainwave patterns from producing mood swings and depression.
For more information about Achievement & Wellness Center, located at 301 Oxford Valley Rd, Suite 703B in Yardley, call 215-321-9502.
