Decreased prefrontal activity can be seen in brain imaging in a wide variety of brain imbalances such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, aggression, MS, schizophrenia, and substance abuse (Siegle, Carter, & Thase, 2006). Better yet, we have seen that by increasing prefrontal activity in these same people, their symptoms will be reduced significantly.

Levels of brain activity and arousal are related to specific types of brain wave patterns, with faster brain waves being related to more aroused states. Hughes and John (1999), reviewed over 200 studies and arrived at the conclusion that brain wave patterns are so apparent that they can be used to diagnose many brain disorders such as ADHD, Learning disabilities, mood disorders, substance abuse and schizophrenia.

One confounding factor in the studies to date had been that almost all brain systems have redundant pathways; or multiple ways to accomplish the same thing. As research has progressed, researchers are gradually outlining subtypes of depression, memory problems, depression, OCD, ADHD, autism that correspond with multiple underlying biological pathways.

Regardless of which pathway is not functioning optimally, the prefrontal cortex has the final thumbs up or thumbs down.

So what are our options for enhancing our ability to override brain functioning that is not serving us?

Brain Science: It's Personal