Electroencephalographic neurofeedback as a tool for reducing harm and risk associated with alcohol use disorder: A critical review

Issues Alcohol use disorder (AUD) causes the highest harms around the world. Many people use alcohol to reduce stress and anxiety, considered as risk factors for AUD. Chronic alcohol use leads to changes in the reward system and the high level of stress may exacerbate neuroendocrine responses. Electroencephalographic (EEG) neurofeedback shows reduction of stress, anxiety and alcohol abuse and it could be an important tool for reducing harm and risk associated with AUD. The aim of this paper is to review the studies that investigated the effects of EEG neurofeedback in subjects with AUD and it proposes to discuss this intervention as a tool for reducing harm and risk in AUD. Approach Medline, PsycINFO and LILACS databases were searched and appropriated terms were used. Inclusion criterion was adopted. The year of publication was not limited because of the scarce number of studies. Eighty-two papers returned and eight were included. A critical review was conducted. Key Findings Most of the papers analysed used the alpha/theta protocol to reduce the 'hyperexcitation' of the nervous system. This protocol provides relaxation, decreases anxiety or stress, prevents alcohol relapse, maintains abstinence and increases the feeling of well-being. Implications EEG neurofeedback has important effects on AUD and anxiety or stress. Studies reinforce the use of EEG neurofeedback as an alternative tool for reducing harm and risk in AUD. Conclusion EEG neurofeedback is an intervention to treat AUD, specifically, to reduce harm and risk. However, more randomised studies are necessary to consolidate the effectiveness of the technique.