Brain Waves and mental health

EEG (electroencephalograph) measures brainwaves of different frequencies within the brain.   It is similar to how an EKG measures the heart and heart health.  At Westlake Village Neurofeedback Center, we use a cap placed on the scalp to detect and record the electrical impulses of your brain.  The frequency recorded is the number of times a wave repeats itself within a second.  If any of these frequencies are too high or low, they can impact your mental health.

The lowest frequencies are delta (slow waves). These are less than 4 Hz and occur in deep sleep and in some abnormal processes.  Delta waves are the slowest waves.  As we enter into sleep, Delta waves increase to start sleep cycles.  This process allows us to go out of consciousness and also to access information in our unconscious mind.  Most individuals diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD), naturally increase rather than decrease Delta activity when trying to focus on tasks. The inappropriate Delta response often severely restricts the ability to focus and maintain attention. Another way to look at Delta is to imagine you are driving in a car and you can never shift out of first gear.  You are in a more drowsy state during the day if you are over active in Delta waves. 

• You could experience difficulty with insomnia
• Shallow sleep cycles
• Not dreaming
• Feeling fatigue during the day
• Difficulty completing tasks
• Attention issues
• Low arousal 

The next brainwave is Theta. Theta activity has a frequency of 3.5 to 7.5 Hz and is classed as “slow” activity.  It is the state right before you fall asleep or when you are waking up in the morning.  When the theta waves function normally, they promotes adaptive, complex behaviors such as learning and memory. Under unusual emotional circumstances, such as stress or disease states, there may be an imbalance of three major transmitter systems, which results in mental health issues.

• Concentration issues
• Feeling like a trance state
• Not able to process information or focus
  

Alpha waves are those between 8 and 12 Hz.  Good healthy alpha production promotes mental resourcefulness, aids in the ability to mentally coordinate, enhances overall sense of relaxation and fatigue. In this state you can move quickly and efficiently to accomplish whatever task is at hand. When Alpha predominates most people feel at ease and calm. Alpha appears to bridge the conscious to the subconscious.  When your alpha is within normal ranges you will experience good moods and have a sense of calm. You can increase alpha by closing your eyes and taking long deep breathes.  Alpha would represent neutral state. 

• Alpha states are calm and relaxed but conscious
• Associated with meditation
• They help you feel balanced

Beta activity is fast wave activity. It has a frequency of 14 and greater Hz.  It may be absent or reduced in areas of cortical damage.  It is generally regarded as a normal rhythm and is the dominant rhythm in those who are alert or anxious or who have their eyes open. 

• When in balance this is a relaxed and focused state
• When out of balance this can reflect attention issues
• Higher levels of anxiety can be present

HIGH BETA (above 18 Hz)

• When out of balance this can create agitation
• Is a state associated with symptoms of PTSD