Depression is a very broad term describing a feeling of very low mood. When this continues for months, and activities that were once pleasurable, are now not, then this is generally classified as clinical depression. Although depression is extremely common in modern society, the problem affects many aspects of life and in extreme cases, can lead to suicide. Besides feeling low and helpless, depression can play havoc with mental function, sleep, eating and energy levels. As means of escapism, sufferers sometimes feel driven to engage in irresponsible activities and develop addictive tendencies.

There are countless causes of Depression, but most are related to stressful life events such as relationship problems, trauma, illness and loss, and challenging financial and health predicaments. In the absence of an environmental trigger, major depressive disorder (MDD) can originate from a chemical imbalance in the brain. Low levels of the “mood” Neurochemical Serotonin, in particular, can cause depression and is usually treated with “anti-depressant” medication. Besides medication, there are a number of popular psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling available. Widely researched and accepted lifestyle choices which help to moderate symptoms include healthy diet and exercise, meditation and yoga, and social connectivity. For those struggling with the condition and not opting for Pharmacological or Psychological interventions, medication-free Neurofeedback is a suitable alternative.

There has been extensive research into EEG biomarkers for MDD, and although some studies have identified common patterns, there is no “typical” or definite depressive EEG profile. However, difference in power ratios (Chang & Choi, 2023), and Alpha asymmetry in frontal regions are frequently observed in those with the disease (Kaiser et al. 2018). An imbalance in power can be seen in QEEG power and symmetry brain maps. Research by Edmund Rolls and team in 2009, 2014 and 2018 has found activity in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC) can also be compromised. In addition to differences in power metrics, coherence studies have identified dysfunctional connectivity between some brain regions, but research is not consistent. In a study by Whitton et al. (2018), Hyperactivity was measured in the Default Mode Network (DMN), often labelled the task-negative network. The DMN is a critical self-referential or internally driven network which activates only when the brain is not carrying out an executive task.

Several Neurofeedback (NF) types and protocols have been researched in relation to Depression. These studies feature different EEG metrics with variable success. In a recent Meta-review by Mikhail Melnikov in 2021, success of Neurofeedback treatment in MDD patients has been classed (Becks Depression Inventory) as level 2/5, possibly efficacious. Many studies have shown promising results, but only one study utilizes qEEG or swLORETA Neurofeedback, with positive results reported (Paquette et al, 2009).

How QEEG and Neurofeedback can help

A QEEG examination provides personalized results that identify the activity most likely to be contributing to depressive symptoms. The brain maps display the frequencies which may be lacking, as well as those that are elevated. These areas can then be targeted in the NF program. The training software discourages the dysfunctional brain pattern, both intensity/power and speed/frequency, and over an undefined number of sessions, reduction in the deviant electrical activity usually occurs. The net result is a greener/healthier brain map, representing a more balanced and flexible brain, with fewer and weaker pathways associated with the undesired pattern. The low mood which once drained the brain and body of energy resources, is now replaced by a more normal state, where energy is freed up to be used elsewhere. When this happens, and Neurochemicals in the brain stabilize, and Depression and Fatigue can dissipate.

Frontal asymmetry predominantly in the Alpha band, difference in power ratios and atypical connectivity are EEG patterns common to patients with depression. When the left and right frontal hemispheres are balanced, power is stabilized and global connectivity moderated, there can be widespread improvements in brain function. In addition to training atypical patterns seen in the individualized QEEG, the Z-score swLORETA Neurofeedback software offers various depression protocols, which can be trialed. These contain a number of different metrics which have been identified in research, to be directly linked to the disease. Specific pathways involved in mood and resting state, and brain regions such as the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC) for example, are targeted in the program.

Note :NDIS approved participants may be eligible for capacity building funding - please confirm with NDIS coordinator prior to booking.