Reports from the World Health Organization reveal that depression is the leading cause of global disability. Evidence is mounting that over-exposure to social media can be a contributing factor. A study at the University of Arkansas by Dr. Brian Primack et al. (2020) suggests the time-consuming nature of social media could fuel symptoms of depression.  

Time spent on social media was compared in a sample of 1,000 people. Findings suggest that participants who spent more than 300 minutes per day on social media were 2.8 times more likely to become depressed within six months (McGowan, 2020). As time spent on social media increases, it can replace important activities such as in-person relationships, achievement of goals and self-reflection.  

Young adults are most affected since they are at critical junctures in their lives. This finding is especially important during the COVID-19 crisis, as social media has become a lifeline for staying connected to friends and family. 

Recently, The Brain Wave Center partnered with Resilient Retreat for an experimental study which focused on the efficacy of neurofeedback to help manage symptoms of depression.  The research showed significantly positive results. Data outcomes displayed the impacts on mental health including clinical depression (52.79% decrease in symptoms of depression) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (38.39% decrease in symptoms of PTSD when neurofeedback was a central modality used. 

 Neurofeedback can be effective on its own; however, continued research has shown that when it is combined with traditional therapies such as medications, counseling or self-help techniques, the outcomes are typically superior.  If you have questions, we always provide a free consultation before we begin. 

For more information, call 941-552-4500 or visit BrainWaveCenters.com.