Stress- Does Brain and Mind Matter- EEG Neurofeedback Training in Alcohol Dependence Syndrome

Addiction is a complex brain condition characterized by physical and psychological consequences. The role of stress in initiation and maintenance of addiction disorder though reviewed constantly, an adequate treatment modality is yet to be considered. The aim of our study was to find the Effectiveness of Neurofeedback Training (NFT) on perceived stress in Alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS).The objectives of the study were to compare pre - post changes in perceived stress in patients with alcohol dependence with (Treatment Group; TG) and without (Treatment As Usual Group; TAU) Neurofeedback Training.The sample consisted of 40 patients, 20 patients in the Treatment Group and 20 patients in the Treatment as usual group. Both the groups were diagnosed with ADS (ICD-10) recruited from the Centre for Addiction Medicine Unit, Department of Psychiatry, NIMHANS. After screening for inclusion and exclusion criteria, both the groups underwent a pre – post assessment Perceived stress scale. The result showed a significant reduction of stress in Treatment Group compared to Treatment as usual group. The present study highlights the significance of NFT as an effective treatment modality to reduce stress and thereby facilitate abstinence in patients with ADS.