Exploring the Role of Binaural Beats in Substance Use Disorder Recovery

A Blend of Science, Sound, and Healing

Introduction

The journey of recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) is multifaceted, requiring physical, emotional, and mental healing. Innovative approaches, alongside traditional therapy, are increasingly embraced to promote recovery. One such promising technique is the use of binaural beats—a sound therapy method that entrains brain waves to specific frequencies. This article explores their potential efficacy in addressing substance use disorder and supporting individuals on the path to recovery.

What Are Binaural Beats?

Binaural beats occur when two tones of slightly different frequencies are played in each ear, creating an auditory illusion of a third tone. This phenomenon stimulates the brain to synchronize its electrical activity to the perceived frequency—a process known as brain wave entrainment. Brain waves are classified into five principal types: delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma, each associated with different mental states such as relaxation, deep sleep, restorative states, focus, expanded consciousness, peak focus, vigilance, self-awareness, calm meditative states or positive mood states and enhanced memory. If you can see how any of these states, on demand, can be useful and support a recovery program then binaural beats could be a valuable tool for you. To achieve brainwave entrainment with binaural beats, you must use headphones or earbuds.

The Frequency Following Response

The Frequency Following Response (FFR), when applied with binaural beats, is the brain's tendency to synchronize its electrical activity (brainwaves) with the frequency of an external rhythmic stimulus, in this case, the perceived binaural beat. This synchronization is thought to be a fundamental brain function, and binaural beats, created by playing slightly different frequencies into each ear, are a way to induce this entrainment. The brain then perceives a third frequency, the difference between the two, and adjusts its own activity to match it, potentially leading to various mental states associated with those frequencies.

Brain Hemisphere Integration

Hemisphere integration, also known as hemispheric synchronization or brain synchrony, is a state where both the left and right hemispheres of the brain communicate effectively and work in unison. This balanced interaction is considered essential for healthy cognitive function and overall well-being. In a state of hemispheric integration, the brain's electrical activity, or brainwaves, are synchronized across both hemispheres. This state of coherence is associated with several potential benefits, including:

Improved cognitive function and concentration: By fostering better communication between the hemispheres, integration can lead to enhanced processing speed, focus, and memory.
Enhanced creativity and problem-solving skills: The collaboration between the logical left brain and the creative right brain can unlock new ways of thinking and approaching problems.
Reduced stress and anxiety: Synchronization of brain activity has been linked to a more relaxed and harmonious mental state, which can help alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Improved emotional regulation: By targeting brain regions involved in emotional processing, hemispheric integration can contribute to better mood balance and control over emotional responses.
Enhanced learning abilities: Improved communication between hemispheres can aid in learning processes, from acquiring new information to strengthening neural pathways.

In the context of hemisphere integration, binaural beats, when using headphones or earbuds, promote brainwave and hemisphere synchronization.

What does the National Library of Medicine (NLM) say about binaural beats?

Abstract

Binaural beat (BB), as a non-invasive auditory beat stimulation type, has found its potential applications in cognitive domains. This review presents a proper summary to deepen our understanding of the soundness of the BB technique by looking into its applications, possible mechanisms of action, effectiveness, limitations, and potential side effects. BB has been claimed to improve cognitive and psychological functions such as memory, attention, stress, anxiety, motivation, and confidence. We have also looked into preclinical and clinical research studies that have been performed using BB and proposed changes in the brain following the application of BB stimulations, including EEG changes. This review also presents applications outside the cognitive domain and evaluates BB as a possible treatment method.

You can read the full article here:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11367212/

How Binaural Beats Work in Recovery

To achieve brainwave entrainment with binaural beats, you must use headphones or earbuds.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety often exacerbate substance use and present barriers to recovery. Binaural beats in the alpha (8–13 Hz) and theta (4–7 Hz) wave ranges are known for inducing relaxation and calming the nervous system. By alleviating the mental pressures individuals face during withdrawal, therapy or in the relearning of life process, binaural beats create a conducive environment for healing.

Promoting Better Sleep

Insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns are common in individuals recovering from substance use. Binaural beats in the delta frequency range (0.5–4 Hz) are associated with deep, restorative sleep. Regular exposure to such frequencies may help re-establish healthy sleep cycles, an essential component of physical and mental recovery.

Enhancing Focus and Cognitive Function

Substance use often impairs cognitive abilities and decision-making. Beta and gamma range binaural beats (13–40 Hz) are linked to increased focus, improved memory, and enhanced problem-solving skills. By stimulating these brain waves, binaural beats can aid individuals in regaining mental clarity and resilience, which are critical for making progress in recovery programs.

Mitigating Cravings

Cravings are one of the most challenging aspects of substance use recovery. While the exact mechanism remains under research, binaural beats may help modulate the brain’s reward system. By fostering states of relaxation and reducing stress, they indirectly reduce the intensity of cravings, helping individuals resist relapse triggers.

The Science Behind Binaural Beats and SUD Recovery

Though studies on binaural beats specifically targeted at SUD recovery are still in their infancy, research in related areas offers valuable insights. For instance, studies indicate that binaural beats can lower cortisol levels—the stress hormone—and increase dopamine production, which plays a role in mood regulation. Both factors are crucial in overcoming the psychological challenges of recovery.

Moreover, neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to restructure and adapt—is a key principle in recovery. The auditory stimulation from binaural beats may promote neuroplastic changes, potentially aiding the brain in healing from damage caused by prolonged substance use and reinforcing the new neural pathways formed by new, healthy habits.

Integrating Binaural Beats into Recovery Programs

To utilize binaural beats effectively, they can be integrated into various recovery settings:

Therapeutic sessions: Binaural beats can complement psychotherapy, mindfulness practices, and guided meditation sessions.
Self-care routines: Individuals can incorporate binaural beats into their daily routines, using headphones for immersive listening.
Rehabilitation centers: Facilities can offer binaural beat therapy as part of holistic recovery plans.

How we can leverage this technology to assist in our recovery?

According to SAMHSA the goal of most treatment programs is to change thoughts and behaviors. Brainwave frequencies are the measurable firing of electrical energy traveling across the brain. They are sometimes referred to as the “language of the nervous system”. Certain mood states such as stress, anxiety, aggression, defensiveness, a sense of being overwhelmed and other unhelpful states have been found to correlate with the high Beta frequency range of 18 Hz-30 Hz (cycles per second). Understanding that our brainwave frequencies, and thus our nervous system is in this state and that it can be adjusted is a real game changer. When listening to binaural beats (using headphones or earbuds) for a period of at least 7-15 minutes can adjust our brainwave frequencies and thus our nervous system out of high Beta and into a frequency range that could be more helpful in any given situation. For instance, some individuals may find starting their day in the Alpha frequency range of relaxed but alert and the frequency that correlates with forgiveness and acceptance, may support their intentions where others may find the state of vigilance, peak focus, enhanced memory and expanded consciousness a more useful way to start the day. We will dive a bit deeper into the each frequency range and many of the states that modern neuroscience is finding are associated with each frequency range further on in this article.

Thoughts and memories

Many people struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) recognize that certain thoughts and memories are triggers for recurrence of use. Some suggest that it is not necessarily the thoughts or the memories which are the triggers for the recurrence of substance use but rather the state of our nervous system that the thoughts and memories create. Experiencing certain thoughts and memories without our nervous system entering a state of fight or flight is very powerful. This is just 1 of the many aspects of positive psychology-based SUD treatment. This is also 1 of the most beneficial aspects of brainwave entrainment (BWE), using binaural beats. Recognizing, in advance, that certain times of the day or certain situations have the tendency to put us in a state that’s not conducive to positive change or that puts us in a lower state of consciousness is crucial. Some factors are inevitable, and adopting positive psychology and a beneficial outlook can take time. Utilizing the technology of binaural beats (BNB) to adjust our BWF and thus our nervous system can give us an early start on experiencing life while maintaining balance and positivity.

Acceptance and Forgiveness

Whether 12 step based, faith based or positive psychology-based recovery program, or a combination of these, acceptance and forgiveness play a crucial role. The brainwave frequency (BWF) that correlates with acceptance is said to be Alpha (8 Hz – 12 Hz) and for forgiveness it is said to be Alpha or Theta (4 Hz – 7 Hz) frequency range. By using binaural beats to entrain the brainwaves to the Alpha or Theta frequency ranges we put our brain and therefore our nervous systems into a state that is optimal for acceptance and forgiveness of ourselves and others.

Peak Focus and Vigilance

According to the National Library of Medicine’s (NLM) PUBMED, the BWF range associated with peak focus and vigilance is the Gamma frequency range (30 Hz -100 Hz), particularly 40 Hz. Focus is a central theme in recovery. Focusing on goals, managing distractions and cravings, addressing past issues and planning for the future are but a few of the many areas where focus and especially peak focus are needed. According to Dr. Anna Lembke, chief at Stanford School of Medicine Addiction and Dual Diagnosis Clinic, vigilance is a crucial aspect of a successful recovery program. She explains this to Dr. Andrew Huberman Professor of Neurobiology at Stanford School of Medicine on the Huberman Labs podcast. By entraining the brainwaves to Gamma, we have set up the nervous system for states of peak focus and vigilance.

Brainwave Frequency Ranges

Potential benefits of targeting gamma (particularly 40 Hz) brainwaves in SUD recovery

Improved Cognitive Function: Addiction can impair cognitive functions like attention, memory, and decision-making, which are crucial for maintaining sobriety. By stimulating gamma waves (particularly 40 Hz) through techniques like binaural beats, individuals may experience enhanced cognitive performance, making it easier to manage cravings, avoid relapse triggers, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Reduced Cravings and Impulsivity: Studies suggest that higher gamma activity is linked to better self-regulation and impulse control. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals in recovery, as it may help them resist cravings and make more thoughtful decisions that support their sobriety goals.
Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Gamma waves are implicated in emotional processing and control. Improving gamma activity could help individuals better manage the intense emotions often associated with addiction and withdrawal, such as anxiety, depression, and stress.
Facilitating Brain Recovery: Chronic substance use can disrupt the brain's natural reward system and alter brainwave patterns. Binaural beats and other gamma wave-enhancing interventions may help restore balance to the brain's reward system and promote healthier brain function, fostering a more sustainable recovery.

Alpha brainwave frequencies, often associated with a relaxed and calm state, are being explored for their potential utility in substance use disorder (SUD) recovery.

Binaural beats leverages this connection by entraining individual’s brain waves to increase their alpha brainwave activity.

Here's how Alpha brainwave frequencies can be useful in SUD recovery:

1. Promoting Relaxation and reducing stress

Alpha brainwaves are associated with a state of relaxed alertness.
Entraining brain waves to increase alpha activity can help them achieve relaxation and manage stress, which are crucial for coping with triggers and cravings in recovery.
Studies suggest a link between increased alpha waves and a reduction in stress levels and anxiety, fostering a sense of well-being and calmness.

2. Improving emotional regulation

Binaural beats focusing on alpha and theta brainwaves has been shown to improve emotional regulation skills, which are often compromised in individuals with SUD.
When experiencing alpha activity, individuals can better manage negative emotions and stress, reducing the likelihood of relapse driven by emotional distress.

3. Facilitating trauma processing

Many individuals with SUD have experienced trauma, and addressing these underlying issues is vital for recovery.
Alpha-theta binaural beats can help individuals access and process traumatic memories in a safe and supportive environment, potentially reducing their impact on addictive behaviors.

4. Reducing cravings and relapse risk

Research suggests that alpha and alpha-theta brain waves can help reduce cravings and temptations for substances.
By promoting a state of calm and focus, it may empower individuals to resist urges and maintain abstinence, enhancing long-term recovery efforts.

5. Enhancing self-control and cognitive function

Binaural beats, including alpha and alpha-theta entrainment, can potentially improve cognitive abilities crucial for maintaining abstinence, such as inhibition and attentional skills.
Entrainment can help individuals gain greater control over their thoughts and actions, leading to increased self-control and better coping mechanisms.

6. Improving sleep quality

Alpha brainwave activity, especially in conjunction with theta waves, is linked to states of deep relaxation and sleep.
Improving sleep quality through binaural beats training can be particularly beneficial in early recovery, when insomnia and sleep disturbances are common.

Theta brainwaves (4-8 Hz), associated with deep relaxation, meditation, and states bordering on sleep, hold promise in various addiction recovery applications.

Here's how Theta brainwave frequencies can be useful in SUD recovery:

1. Addressing underlying emotional and psychological issues

Emotional processing and healing: Theta brainwave states facilitate access to the subconscious mind, which can be useful in processing past traumas and emotional wounds that may contribute to addiction.
Stress and anxiety reduction: Theta waves are linked to deep relaxation and stress reduction, helping individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety, major triggers for addictive behaviors.
Improved self-regulation and emotional control: By enhancing self-regulation and providing tools for managing cravings and triggers, theta training empowers individuals to exert more control over their emotional responses.

2. Supporting behavioral and cognitive change

Enhanced learning and memory: Theta waves are associated with improved learning and memory retention, potentially helping individuals acquire new coping skills and retain information learned in therapy.
Accessing the "flow state": Theta waves are linked to the "flow state" or deep focus and heightened awareness, which can be helpful for individuals engaging in activities that support their recovery, says Mendi.io.
Reducing cravings and preventing relapse: By influencing neural pathways and promoting self-control over addictive behaviors, increased theta activity can lead to a decrease in cravings and the prevention of relapse. A study found that individuals who experienced increased frontal midline theta brain activity during mindfulness-based therapy reduced opioid misuse by 45%.

Delta brainwaves, operating at the slowest frequencies (0.5 to 4 Hz), are predominantly associated with deep, restorative sleep, a state crucial for the body and mind's healing and rejuvenation. In the context of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) recovery, fostering healthy delta wave activity can be potentially useful in several ways.

Here's how Delta brainwave frequencies can be useful in SUD recovery:

1. Enhancing restorative sleep

Addressing sleep disturbances: Addiction often disrupts sleep patterns, impacting the ability to achieve the deep, restorative sleep essential for physical and cognitive restoration.
Promoting natural healing: Deep sleep associated with delta waves facilitates physical healing, tissue repair, and the release of growth hormones, vital processes for individuals recovering from the physiological impacts of substance abuse.

2. Facilitating relaxation and stress reduction

Counteracting stress and anxiety: Delta waves are linked to profound mental relaxation and can help reduce stress levels and regulate emotions, which are crucial for managing triggers and cravings associated with SUD.
Balancing brainwave activity: binaural beats, a technique that allows individuals to learn to control their brainwave patterns, can be used to promote delta wave activity and achieve a more relaxed state.

3. Supporting cognitive function

Improving focus and attention: Studies indicate that delta wave activity may be associated with cognitive processing and memory recall, potentially helping to improve focus and attention span, which can be affected by addiction.
Boosting mental clarity: Balanced brainwave patterns, potentially including healthy delta activity, can enhance cognitive flexibility and processing speed, reducing mental fog and improving overall mental clarity.

40 hertz brainwave entrainments in neurodegenerative conditions treatment

40 hertz (Hz) brainwave entrainment, particularly using sensory stimulation (light, sound, or vibration at 40 Hz), shows promise as a potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD).

To achieve brainwave entrainment with binaural beats, you must use headphones or earbuds.

Here's how it's being explored and utilized:

Targeting Gamma Waves: 40 Hz stimulation aims to synchronize and boost brain activity in the gamma frequency range (30-100 Hz), which is often disrupted in conditions like Alzheimer's. Gamma waves are associated with higher cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and sensory processing.
Reducing Disease Hallmarks: Studies in mouse models have shown that 40 Hz stimulation can reduce the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and tau tangles, characteristic features of Alzheimer's disease pathology.
Neuroprotection and Connectivity: This entrainment may also help prevent neuron death, preserve synapses, and improve functional connectivity within the brain, potentially counteracting neurodegeneration.
Enhancing Glymphatic Clearance: Research suggests that 40 Hz stimulation promotes the clearance of amyloid proteins and other waste products from the brain via the glymphatic system, a network that functions as the brain's lymphatic system.
Cognitive and Behavioral Improvements: In early clinical studies and trials, 40 Hz sensory stimulation has been linked to potential benefits like improved memory, mood stabilization, better sleep patterns, and reduced behavioral disturbances in individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
Addressing Motor Symptoms: For conditions like Parkinson's disease, 40 Hz vibrotactile (touch-based) stimulation has shown potential in improving motor symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and gait.

Delivery methods:

Light and Sound: Light flickering and/or sound clicking at 40 Hz are common delivery methods, often through specialized devices like headsets or light panels.
Tactile Stimulation: 40 Hz vibrations delivered through devices like whole-body vibration platforms.
To achieve brainwave entrainment with binaural beats, you must use headphones or earbuds.

Conclusion:

While binaural beats are a promising complementary tool, they are not a standalone treatment for substance use disorder. Their effectiveness varies across individuals and depends on factors such as consistency, frequency, and the individual's receptiveness.

Binaural beats represent an intriguing intersection of neuroscience and sound therapy, offering potential benefits to individuals recovering from substance use disorder. By reducing stress, promoting sleep, enhancing focus, and mitigating cravings, they can play a supportive role in the complex process of recovery. As research continues to evolve, binaural beats may find their place as an indispensable tool in holistic approaches to healing while empowering individuals to reclaim control of their lives.

"Truth can never be told so as to be understood and not be believed,"

-William Blake

For questions and to learn more, call Bill at 515-953-8561.