What Is an Electroencephalogram (EEG) and How Does It Work?

Mental health symptoms like anxiety, depression, or attention challenges can have deep-rooted neurological causes that aren't always easy to pinpoint. One tool that helps providers better understand what's happening in the brain is the electroencephalogram, or EEG. This diagnostic test records brainwave activity and can play a major role in guiding neurofeedback therapy and other integrative psychiatric approaches. At Mynd Works Psychiatry in Austin, TX, our team utilizes EEG testing in certain cases as part of the Mynd Works Way to support personalized, effective treatment. Read on to learn more about what an EEG does and how it can fit into a broader plan for improving mental wellness.

What does an EEG measure?

An EEG captures electrical signals in the brain by using small, virtually painless electrodes placed on the scalp. These electrodes pick up patterns of brainwave activity, which can reveal whether your brain is functioning in an overactive, underactive, or imbalanced state. The brainwave patterns that are identified on EEG results help providers understand how your brain processes information, responds to stimuli, and maintains focus or calm. EEG data is particularly valuable for identifying abnormal brain activity that could contribute to symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, or other neurological and psychiatric concerns.

How is EEG used in neurofeedback therapy?

At Mynd Works Psychiatry, EEG testing is often used to support neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback or brain training. This therapy uses real-time EEG data to help patients learn how to regulate their brainwave activity. During a neurofeedback session, sensors placed on the scalp send brainwave data to a computer, which gives immediate visual or auditory feedback. This teaches your brain how to adjust its activity patterns over time. For example, patients may learn how to shift from a high-anxiety state to a calmer one or improve attention and cognitive performance. Because neurofeedback is noninvasive and does not use drugs, it appeals to many people seeking more natural and long-term strategies for managing mental health.

What can an EEG help with?

An EEG is not just for diagnostic purposes — though it is certainly valuable in making certain diagnoses. Additionally, EEG results can help guide treatment for a variety of issues that affect brain function. Some of the most common conditions that may benefit from EEG-guided neurofeedback include:

• Chronic anxiety
• Clinical depression
• ADHD
• Sleep disturbances
• Bipolar disorder
• Post-traumatic stress (PTSD)

By understanding how your brain functions through EEG, our care team can customize a neurofeedback program and other strategies to help retrain your brain toward healthier, more effective patterns.

What happens after my EEG test is complete?

Once your EEG is recorded, our team in Austin, TX will review the data and use it to develop a personalized treatment plan. This may include neurofeedback sessions, lifestyle changes, and a combination of conventional and alternative therapies. Our integrative psychiatry model also incorporates genetic and nutrigenomic testing, which helps determine how your body and brain respond to certain medications, nutrients, or interventions. Together, these insights allow us to create a plan that's tailored to your unique biology, behavior, and health goals.

Get a clearer picture of your mental health and wellness with EEG-guided neurofeedback therapy

Understanding your brain's electrical activity can open the door to making meaningful changes in your mental health and overall well-being. At Mynd Works Psychiatry in Austin, TX, our team uses EEG testing as part of a comprehensive, integrative approach designed to address the root causes of your symptoms and help you thrive. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our caring providers and learn more about how EEG and the Mynd Works Way can support your mental wellness journey.