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Neurofeedback therapy has been repeatedly praised for its many potential mental health benefits, which probably makes one wonder how safe it actually is and whether there are any side effects.

While this brain training method is generally deemed safe, like other biofeedback therapies, there may be some short-term side effects that should only last 24-48 hours. The risk of having neurofeedback side effects is directly linked to the experience of the neurofeedback provider, the treatment protocol, and other factors. Below, you'll find more on the topic.

Key Takeaways

• In-clinic neurofeedback therapy is based on a treatment protocol that targets specific brain regions and brainwave patterns.

• Common short-term side effects of neurofeedback therapy include headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances, which typically resolve as the brain adapts to new brain wave patterns.

• To minimize the risk of developing side effects, it is important to work with an experienced practitioner and inform them about any sensations you're not comfortable with. It's also important to avoid overtraining your brain.

• Home neurofeedback devices generally do not cause any side effects because they're designed for wellness purposes only. However, if you have a medical condition, it's best to talk to your doctor before using any of these devices.

What Is Neurofeedback Therapy?

Neurofeedback therapy is a cutting-edge, non-invasive therapy that relies on neuroplasticity to help users train their brain through real-time feedback.

Conventionally, it is done through electroencephalography (EEG), which measures brainwave activity through electrodes placed on the scalp. Then, the system analyzes the collected data and translates it immediately into visual or auditory feedback based on the treatment protocol chosen by the therapist.

During this, the patient is engaged in a type of cognitive activity, like playing a game or watching a movie. The aim is to train people to self-regulate and achieve desired states through rewards - this is a type of learning called operant conditioning, which is basically the mechanism of action of neurofeedback. People are more likely to repeat activities/states associated with positive outcomes.

Neurofeedback Protocols

Since our goal today is to understand if neurofeedback has side effects, it's important to focus on treatment protocols. A neurofeedback protocol is a personalized treatment that tells the neurofeedback system what brain waves and brain locations are targeted.

The protocol is chosen by a qualified professional and is based on your symptoms or/and a quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG), also called a brain map.

This means that by personalizing your protocol, the therapist focuses on exactly the brainwaves that need to be balanced for you. Working with a personalized protocol is extremely important because this therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution - everyone's brain activity is different, especially if they're also diagnosed with a mental health condition, which can also alter brainwave activity.

For example, one of the most common neurofeedback protocols is Sensorimotor Rhythm (SMR), which focuses on reducing theta waves (associated with deep relaxation and mind-wandering) and high beta waves (associated with anxiety and restlessness), thus promoting Lo-Beta (SMR). Its goal is to improve focus and promote relaxation and is often used for ADHD.

At-Home Neurofeedback

Today, neurofeedback isn't performed only in clinical settings. There are many wearable neurofeedback devices that can be used at home, although they are intended for wellness purposes only.

These devices also use EEG, just like clinical-grade systems, but not all follow personalized protocols, focusing primarily on improving overall well-being rather than addressing specific symptoms.

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is another neurofeedback technology that, instead of measuring brainwaves, focuses on blood flow and oxygenation. There's currently only one consumer-grade device that uses fNIRS, and that is Mendi.

Whichever technology they use, at-home neurofeedback systems are not medical-grade devices and should not be used to diagnose or treat a medical condition.

Does Neurofeedback Have Side Effects?

Neurofeedback is generally considered a safe, non-invasive brain training method, but in some cases, it does cause short-term side effects, which should resolve soon after the therapy session ends, usually within 24-48 hours.

The authors of a research paper published in 2015 that reviewed 17 neurofeedback studies concluded that "neurofeedback interventions were well tolerated with only three studies reporting any side effects."

During another study, 30 healthy students who underwent neurofeedback training received a questionnaire at the end about any side effects. Based on their answers, the scientists concluded that the results "suggest that similar to most medical treatments, neurofeedback can cause transient adverse side effects."

Below, we'll discuss what exactly increases or decreases the risk of experiencing side effects.

The Qualification of Your Therapist

Choosing a therapist who is qualified to administer neurofeedback therapy is the most important step to avoid any side effects. Choose a specialist with a lot of experience in the field and make sure to check their qualifications.

This means you may have to wait more to get an appointment at their clinic, or you may have to pay more for your neurofeedback sessions, but it is undoubtedly worth it.

Everyone Is Different

Everyone is different. This is the answer to avoiding neurofeedback side effects. As with any other treatment or medication, each patient may react differently to neurofeedback training. This is where treatment protocols come in. This is why they're so important for successful brain training.

Choose a neurofeedback specialist who understands that and is willing to outline a fully personalized protocol and adjust it as needed if you experience any side effects.

Not All Brain Parts Are Similar

As mentioned above, different treatment protocols focus on different brain regions. But some parts of the brain react differently and are more challenging to train, which is why they may cause more side effects.

For example, some studies have shown that Sensorimotor Rhythm (SMR) protocols are more sensitive and are more likely to cause short-term side effects. Yet again - we highlight the importance of a well-outlined treatment protocol and...

...Session Duration and Frequency

It's not recommended to take, let's say, too many vitamin C supplements a day, right? It works the same for neurofeedback. Too much neurofeedback can do more harm than good. This is why it's important to schedule your sessions and establish a session duration that does not overexert your brain.

Changing Brainwaves Can Trigger Emotional Changes

It is important to know that changing specific brain wave frequencies can trigger emotional changes. For instance, if you're aiming to increase beta waves, you may feel more anxious or alert.

Conversely, if your goal is to increase slower frequencies, you may feel tired or have trouble concentrating.

But - yet again - these feelings should subside within 24-48 hours and disappear altogether as your therapy progresses. If these effects are persistent, you should talk to your therapist.

Approach Neurofeedback with Care If You Have Neurological Conditions

Before starting neurofeedback, inform your doctor if you have any neurological conditions (and others, for that matter). In some cases, neurofeedback is not a good option because it can cause side effects that are uncommon for other people.

At-Home Neurofeedback Usually Has No Side Effects

If you're using at-home neurofeedback devices, you likely won't have any side effects as long as you don't have any medical conditions and you're using them correctly, as per the manufacturer's advice. These devices are designed only for wellness benefits. If anything, some users have reported not feeling any changes, in which case the technology of the particular device they were using probably wasn't suitable for their wellness needs.

Remember that most at-home neurofeedback systems are not medical-grade devices. It is not recommended to use them if you have a mental health or neurological condition because, in this case, they may cause some side effects. Always talk to your doctor before using any home neurofeedback device.

Possible In-Clinic Neurofeedback Side Effects

Here are some in-clinic neurofeedback side effects that have been reported over the years (as mentioned above, if they do appear, these side effects should resolve within 24-48 hours; if they don't, inform your therapist):

• Anxiety

• Headaches

• Mental fatigue and low energy

• Dizziness

• Depersonalization

• Brain fog

• Trouble concentrating

• Muscle tension

Tips on How to Minimize Neurofeedback Side Effects

To wrap it up, here are some tips on how to minimize the risk of side effects:

• Find a qualified professional, even if it means paying more or waiting more time to get an appointment.

• Learn as much as you can about neurofeedback. It is extremely important that you understand exactly how neurofeedback works.

• Insist on having your treatment protocol personalized based on your unique brain activity and needs.

• Report any side effects you may experience as soon as possible.

• Don't overtrain your brain, especially in the beginning (valid for home neurofeedback as well).

• Mention any pre-existing medical conditions before beginning neurofeedback therapy.

• Talk to your doctor before using any at-home neurofeedback devices.

• Track your progress and side effects, if any. Keep a journal where you track your reaction to neurofeedback and the feelings you're experiencing immediately after the sessions. You can bring the journal to your next session and discuss everything with your therapist. Don't forget that effective communication with your neurofeedback provider can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

• Take into consideration that the benefits of neurofeedback are still widely researched. While many studies have shown that neurofeedback can be a powerful tool in managing various mental health conditions, further research is still required to fully confirm its effects on the brain.

Neurofeedback Benefits

On a more positive note, let's switch our attention to the potential benefits of neurofeedback, which have been praised for decades!

While this field is still developing, and scientists are still trying to find specific protocols that work best for specific mental health conditions, the impressive number of people who benefited from neurofeedback cannot be left unremarked.

Plus, there are thousands of studies that have pinpointed various benefits - although, without a doubt, future research is still required, given that this is a relatively recent field of study compared to other therapies.

Let's start with in-clinic neurofeedback, which can be beneficial for people with:

• ADHD

• PTSD

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Traumatic brain injury

• OCD

• Insomnia

• Stress

• Autism

Conversely, home neurofeedback devices can help you:

• Improve cognitive function

• Manage stress better

• Reach peak performance

• Improve sleep quality

• Improve memory skills

• Regulate your emotions better

• Relax more

• Boost your energy levels

• Promote overall well-being

• Become more aware of how your brain functions

Ready to Try Home Neurofeedback? Get Your Mendi!

Do you think at-home neurofeedback suits your wellness goals? Excellent! You can now try Mendi - one of the most technologically advanced neurofeedback devices on the market!

Our headband uses fNRIS technology which measures the levels of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood flow to your prefrontal cortex - the "CEO" of some of the most important skills we acquire and continue to develop throughout our lives, such as decision-making and problem-solving.

If you're ready to give it a try, your Mendi headband is waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can neurofeedback go wrong?

In-clinic neurofeedback may cause side effects if the treatment protocol is not adjusted based on your specific needs, which is why it's extremely important to work with an experienced neurofeedback professional.

How long do neurofeedback side effects last?

Neurofeedback side effects should not last more than 24-48 hours. If they do, contact your neurofeedback provider.

What happens when you stop neurofeedback?

Studies have shown that the changes performed during neurofeedback can last for up to 6-12 months. If you stop neurofeedback mid-training, the benefits may not last long.

Why do I feel more anxious after neurofeedback?

Changing specific brain wave frequencies can make you feel more anxious after your session, but this effect should resolve itself within 24-48 hours.

How can I minimize side effects from neurofeedback therapy?

To minimize side effects from neurofeedback therapy, work with an experienced practitioner, make sure they're using a personalized protocol, manage your session frequency and duration, and continuously track your symptoms. These strategies can effectively enhance your overall experience.

Why is it important to choose an experienced neurofeedback practitioner?

Choosing an experienced neurofeedback practitioner is crucial as they can minimize the risk of adverse effects by accurately targeting the appropriate brain frequencies and regions.