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Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) for treating mental disorders

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Medical healthcare shifts in a more humane way highlights the advancements in non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation technology, such as Nurosym. This innovative approach demonstrates a significant step forward in the field of medical healthcare, embracing a more patient-centered and compassionate method of treatment. Its utilization signifies a transformative shift towards more empathetic and effective healthcare practices.

Recent research and neuroscientists has provided strong evidence supporting the use of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) for treating mental disorders in pediatric and prenatal groups. Interestingly, it is well-documented that the use of antidepressants during pregnancy can lead to complications such as low birth weight and preterm delivery due to their ability to cross the placenta. In contrast, one study demonstrated that VNS was an effective treatment for depression during pregnancy, with no adverse outcomes for either the mother or the fetus. [1] On top of that, another study reported significant improvements in well-being and quality of life among children treated with nVNS. This is particularly impactful in the current landscape of depression treatment, which is limited in young people due to the side effects and potential harm of pharmaceutical options to cognitive development. [2]

Current research by neuroscientists has presented compelling evidence in favor of utilizing non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) to address mental health issues in children and expectant mothers. Notably, it is widely acknowledged that the use of antidepressants during pregnancy can result in complications like low birth weight and premature delivery, given their ability to pass through the placenta. Conversely, a study showed that VNS effectively treated depression in pregnant women without any negative effects on the mother or the unborn child. Furthermore, another study indicated notable enhancements in the well-being and quality of life of children who underwent nVNS therapy. This is especially significant in the current context of managing depression in young individuals, where the options are limited due to the adverse effects and potential risks to cognitive development associated with pharmaceutical treatments.

This growing body of research underscores the potential of nVNS as a safe and effective solution not only for vulnerable groups but also for the general adult population. By successfully treating conditions in these sensitive groups, we also glean insights that can be applied to broader adult care. Consider the well-known detrimental effects of substances like alcohol, drugs, and poor diets, which are especially harmful during pregnancy and childhood, but also adversely affect adults. Thanks to technology and scientific research, who are taking significant strides in shifting outdated mindsets and addressing health issues at their core and in more humane ways,  rather than merely managing symptoms and producing further unpleasant effects.

Vagus nerve stimulation, such as with NUROSYM technology, sends mild electrical stimulation through the skin to the vagus nerve. This helps to activate the nerve, which in turn supports the body in shifting from the ‘fight or flight’ state to the ‘rest and digest’ state. Rather than relaxing the nerve, the stimulation encourages the vagus nerve to enhance its function, thereby promoting a calming effect on the body.

  1. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1744-859x-4-16?utm_source=getftr&utm_medium=getftr&utm_campaign=getftr_pilot2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1059131105001500?pes=vor

PEOPLE CAN CHANGE – THE POWER OF NEUROPLASTICITY

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Neuroplasticity is a powerful mechanism in our brains that functions like a prediction machine, shaping how we react in specific situations. Our mix of personality traits, built through life experiences, plays a significant role in this process. But can people change? Many of us have encountered situations where we think, “That’s just their personality, they won’t change,” or find ourselves repeating the same unhelpful behaviors, feeling it’s beyond our control to change these patterns. Neuroscience, however, strongly disagrees with the notion of a fixed personality. As long as our brain neurons can change their paths, reconnect, and grow, we have the potential to change and become whoever we want, depending on our experiences.

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That said, it’s not as easy with aging. After the age of 25, our brain’s development starts to slow down. For instance, learning a new language in your 40s becomes a challenging task. Cognitive reserve, the brain’s resilience to age-related changes, is built up through a lifetime of learning and experiences, helping to delay the onset of cognitive impairments. [1]Enhanced neuroplasticity is vital for aging individuals as it enables the brain to adapt to new experiences and learn new skills, thus maintaining cognitive health. [2] It also plays a crucial role in recovery from brain injuries, such as strokes, which are more common in older adults. Moreover, improved neuroplasticity can help combat the effects of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s by maintaining neural connections and cognitive functions. [3]

These reasons alone underscore the importance of neuroplasticity. Simply put, it’s essential for us to enjoy our daily lives, make things easier, and feel happiness. So, how can we enhance our brain’s neuroplasticity? While trauma can drastically change the brain, there are positive ways to promote neuroplasticity, such as physical exercises, continuous learning, and non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS).

Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has emerged as a promising therapy to enhance neuroplasticity. VNS works by stimulating the vagus nerve, which in turn increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein that plays a critical role in brain health by supporting the survival, growth, and differentiation of neurons and synapses. It enhances synaptic plasticity, which is essential for learning and memory. [4] By increasing BDNF levels, VNS helps strengthen the connections between neurons, making it easier for the brain to form new neural pathways.

Studies have shown that VNS can improve cognitive functions such as working memory and attention, which are vital for maintaining cognitive health in adults. [5] For example, an adult taking up a musical instrument can benefit from enhanced neuroplasticity, making the learning process more effective and enjoyable. By promoting neuroplasticity, VNS offers a promising avenue for improving the quality of life and cognitive health in adults. 

  1. https://consensus.app/papers/approaches-aging-neuroplasticity-jellinger/56efb1df7d6056f5b2a8b29e979b3805/?utm_source=chatgpt
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23576887/
  3. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/274564269_Alzheimer_disease_and_neuroplasticity_New_approaches_and_new_targets_in_pharmacotherapy
  4. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371312609_Understanding_the_Neuroplastic_Effects_of_Auricular_Vagus_Nerve_Stimulation_in_Animal_Models_of_Stroke_A_Systematic_Review_and_Meta-Analysis
  5. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313845379_Vagus_nerve_stimulation_improves_working_memory_performance