The brain is powered by electricity. Millions upon millions of neurons fire off electric signals in order to communicate with other neurons to create thoughts, behavior, and emotion. These signals harmonize together to create a rhythm that can be read and translated by a tool called a quantitative electroencephalogram, also known as a qEEG.

A qEEG is also known as brain mapping that allows a medical professional the insight to see how a brain is firing. This diagnostic tool can be utilized to assess the thinking patterns, anxiety, emotions, cognitive flexibility, and more. This assessment can show whether brain activity is healthy, or if neurons are beginning to misfire.

There are five known types of brain waves that can be read, and they are each found in various mental states.

Delta – Delta brain waves are the slowest out of the five. They typically occur when you are asleep or in deep meditation.

Theta – Theta brain waves are the second slowest. These waves happen when you are daydreaming, in deep meditation, or in the twilight stage between sleeping and being awake.

Alpha – Alpha brain waves happen when you are physically and mentally in a relaxed state.

Sensorimotor (SMR) – SMR brain waves happen when you are wide awake and alert.

Typically, these brain waves will transition from one to the next throughout the day at the correct times. Slow waves while we rest, and faster waves during complex actions and tasks. Unfortunately in some of us, these waves can fire at the wrong times. This can cause issues that hinder us from our daily routine.

Brain waves have been connected to many mental health conditions we are all familiar with. These conditions include ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more. These brain maps can allow physicians to accurately diagnose a mental condition and create a treatment plan.

In addition to qEEG scans, brain SPECT imaging can also lend assistance in tackling mental health conditions. SPECT imaging measures the blood flow in the brain. Having a mapping of electric currents and blood flow can ultimately reveal what is happening when a patient is diagnosed with conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, autism, OCD, and more.

If you believe that qEEG and SPECT imaging can assist you in stabilizing your mental health, contact the Brainwave Center today to schedule a consultation.