What Could Your Psychiatrist Look for in an EEG?

Perhaps your psychiatrist is interested in revealing clues about your mental illness and treatment through a visual map of how your brain functions.

Understanding EEGs in Psychiatry

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a valuable tool in the toolbox of a psychiatry clinic, allowing doctors to survey the electrical activity in the brain. Electrodes are placed on the scalp to record the electrical activity generated by neurons. This electrical activity is translated into a series of traces or patterns, providing a forward into the brain's state of excitability, rhythm, and coherence.

Psychiatric Diagnostics via EEG

For a psychiatrist, EEG is not just a diagnostic tool but also a resource for understanding the underlying physiological mechanisms of mental illness. By studying the specific patterns of electrical activity, psychiatrists can identify abnormalities that might correlate with certain mental health conditions. Below, we explore what psychiatrists commonly look for in an EEG and how it contributes to your psychiatric care.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. EEGs can help in diagnosing ADHD by showing specific patterns of electrical activity that are often deeper and more bilaterally asymmetric in the fronto-central regions of the brain. The reduced alpha waves (8-12 Hz) are a common highlight in individuals with ADHD, indicating underactive neural activity in these areas.

Bipolar Disorder

Individuals with bipolar disorder often experience manic and depressive episodes. EEGs can reveal distinct patterns that correspond to the state of the patient. During manic phases, high-frequency beta activity (13-30 Hz) and increased coherence in the gamma frequency band (30-100 Hz) are often observed. Conversely, during depressive phases, there is a reduction in beta and gamma activity, along with an increase in alpha and theta frequencies (0.5-4 Hz).

Depression

Depression is a complex condition marked by persistent sadness, anxiety, and loss of interest in activities. EEG patterns in depressed individuals often show lower alpha frequency activity and higher theta frequency activity in the frontal and frontal-temporal regions. However, it is important to note that these EEG findings are often complementary to other diagnostic methods, such as psychological assessments and clinical interviews.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a condition that commonly results from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Individuals with PTSD often exhibit hypervigilance and anxiety. EEGs can help identify specific patterns in brain activity, such as prolonged alpha-block in the prefrontal cortex and altered gamma coherence. These patterns are consistent with the emotional and cognitive dysregulation often found in individuals with PTSD.

Interpreting EEG Results in Mental Health

Interpreting EEG results involves a comprehensive understanding of the patient's clinical history and symptoms. While EEGs are not diagnostic on their own, they can provide valuable complementary information that bolsters the overall assessment. This information can guide the diagnostic process and inform treatment decisions. For instance, if a patient is suspected of having bipolar disorder, an EEG may show high-frequency activity during mania, which can help confirm the diagnosis and guide the type of treatment needed.

Conclusion

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a powerful adjunct in the care of individuals with mental illness. By providing visual insights into the brain's electrical activity, psychiatrists can complement other diagnostic tools and inform treatment strategies. Understanding the specific patterns of electrical activity in the brain can lead to more precise diagnoses and more tailored treatment plans. As a result, EEGs play a crucial role in enhancing the personalized and comprehensive approach to mental health care.