Beta Waves
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Beta waves are a type of brain wave that are associated with normal waking consciousness. They are high-frequency, low-amplitude brain waves that are commonly observed in an awake state. Beta waves are involved in conscious thought and logical thinking, and tend to have a stimulating effect.
Beta waves have a frequency range of between 12.5 and 30 Hz. They are most dominant during the daytime, when people are wide awake and actively engaged in mental activities.
Beta waves are one of the five types of brainwaves that our brains produce:
- Gamma: 30 – 100 Hz
- Beta: 12 – 30Hz
- Alpha: 8 – 12 Hz
- Theta: 4 – 8 Hz
- Delta: 0.5-4 Hz
Beta waves can be split into three sections: Low Beta Waves, Beta Waves, and High Beta Waves.
If there is not enough low and/or midrange beta in the frontal lobes, then a person may experience confusion, lack of motivation, disorganization, and inefficiency. If there is too much high beta over 10%, a person may experience anxiety, agitation, panic
Beta Brain Waves: A Novel Brain Signature for Depression
A new study identifies beta frequency neural activity in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) as crucial for recognizing rewards and shaping behavior. This neural signature is altered in patients with depression, suggesting it could serve as a biomarker and potential treatment target for anhedonia.