Effects of audiovisual brain stimulation in the alpha frequency range in patients with neurological disorders

Abstract

Summary. The development of non-pharmacological methods for correcting functional brain disorders remains a relevant task of modern times. The audiovisual method of stimulating brain activity at the alpha frequency (8–13 Hz) is a promising approach. This paper presents the results of a study on the effects of alpha stimulation in four groups of patients: those with sleep disorders; those with anxiety disorders; those with cognitive impairments; and those with organic disorders (consequences of stroke). The total number of patients was n=288, and the study design was open-label with an active control group. The effects of alpha stimulation were assessed using validated psychological tests before and after the stimulation course. The main effect observed in all patient groups was a significant (approximately 30%) reduction in anxiety levels (assessed by HADS), as well as improvements in social functioning and mental health indicators (assessed by SF-36). To a lesser extent, depression severity scores decreased. The article discusses the relationship between anxiety indicators, cortisol levels, and the physiological state of the body. It also considers the hypothesis that alpha stimulation may be effective for a broader range of pathologies.