A NEURO-PLASTICITY BASED LOW-FREQUENCY SOUND STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD TO REDUCE ANXIETY

Abstract

This invention relates to a wrist-wearable device designed to reduce anxiety by leveraging neuroplasticity through low-frequency sound stimulation. The device features a user-activated button that emits sound waves at frequencies between 6-40 Hz, corresponding to main cortical rhythms (Theta, Alpha, and Gamma). Upon pressing the button, the device emits these low-frequency beats, which provide short-term relaxation and reduce anxiety symptoms. Repeated usage fosters the development of new neural pathways, thereby weakening the old anxiety-related pathways. This wearable device offers both immediate and long-term benefits by reducing anxiety triggers and facilitating the formation of healthier neural connections over time.

Specification

Description:[0018].The following description provides specific details of certain aspects of the disclosure illustrated in the drawings to provide a thorough understanding of those aspects. It should be recognized, however, that the present disclosure can be reflected in additional aspects and the disclosure may be practiced without some of the details in the following description.
[0019].The various aspects including the example aspects are now described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the various aspects of the disclosure are shown. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. Rather, these aspects are provided so that this disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the sizes of components may be exaggerated for clarity.
[0020].It is understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers that may be present. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0021].The subject matter of example aspects, as disclosed herein, is described with specificity to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent. Rather, the inventor/inventors have contemplated that the claimed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different features or combinations of features similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other technologies.
[0022].The present invention is a wrist-wearable device specifically designed to manage anxiety by utilizing neuroplasticity and low-frequency auditory stimulation. Anxiety disorders are characterized by an overactive response to certain triggers, which results in symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, restlessness, and a sense of impending danger. These symptoms arise due to deeply established neural pathways that create an automatic anxiety response. To effectively counteract these responses, the current invention introduces an intervention that combines auditory stimulation and neuroplasticity principles to alter the brain's response to anxiety-inducing situations.
[0023].Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health issues worldwide, affecting millions of individuals. They are characterized by an overwhelming feeling of fear or worry that interferes with daily activities. The underlying cause of anxiety often lies in the well-established neural pathways that the brain forms in response to certain triggers, resulting in automatic, repeated anxiety responses.
[0024].Neuroplasticity-the brain's ability to create new neural pathways and adapt to changes-offers a potential approach to treating anxiety. By intentionally practicing new habits, the brain can be trained to form new neural connections, gradually weakening the older pathways associated with anxiety and building healthier responses to triggers. This concept has been applied in various therapeutic settings to help patients gain control over their anxiety symptoms.
[0025].In recent years, research has also indicated that specific auditory stimuli, such as monaural beats, can influence brain activity and promote relaxation. Monaural beats at frequencies such as Theta (6 Hz), Alpha (10 Hz), and Gamma (40 Hz) have been shown to help reduce anxiety. These frequencies align with natural cortical rhythms that aid in creating a state of calmness and relaxation.
[0026].The present invention leverages neuroplasticity and the effects of monaural beat stimulation to address anxiety through a wrist-wearable device. The device enables users to consciously respond to anxiety triggers by pressing a button that emits low-frequency sounds, thereby aiding the formation of new neural pathways over time. This approach provides an innovative, non-invasive, and user-controlled method to manage anxiety, offering both immediate and long-term benefits.
[0027].The device comprises a wrist-wearable structure that houses a user-activated button, a sound emitter, a control unit, and a rechargeable power source. It is ergonomically designed to be worn comfortably throughout the day, ensuring easy access when needed. The primary function of the device is activated by the user pressing the button when they sense an impending anxiety attack or are exposed to a known trigger. Once the button is pressed, the device emits monaural beats at frequencies between 6 to 40 Hz, which correspond to key cortical rhythms known to produce calming and relaxing effects. Specifically, Theta (6 Hz), Alpha (10 Hz), and Gamma (40 Hz) waves are targeted to facilitate relaxation, focus, and reduced anxiety levels.
[0028].Monaural beats are created by playing two tones of slightly different frequencies into the same ear, resulting in a rhythmic beat. This beat synchronizes with brain activity, allowing users to shift their mental state to a more relaxed one. The Theta waves (6 Hz) are associated with deep relaxation and creativity, ideal for calming the mind and reducing stress. Alpha waves (10 Hz) are linked to a relaxed but alert state, promoting a sense of calm without drowsiness. Gamma waves (40 Hz) are related to cognitive processing and heightened focus, helping users maintain mental clarity. By delivering sound waves within these specific frequency ranges, the invention can help disrupt anxiety responses, providing immediate relief to the user by inducing a relaxed state.
[0029].The long-term mechanism of the device is rooted in neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. In individuals experiencing anxiety, the brain forms and strengthens pathways that automatically trigger anxiety responses upon encountering specific stimuli. These pathways become deeply ingrained with repeated use, making it difficult to control anxiety. The wearable device seeks to disrupt this automaticity by providing an alternative response whenever the trigger is sensed. By pressing the button and experiencing the calming auditory stimulus, the user engages in an intentional behavior that starts creating a new, healthier neural pathway that is not associated with the original anxiety-inducing trigger. With repeated use, the new pathway strengthens while the old, anxiety-associated pathway weakens, effectively reducing the severity of anxiety over time.
[0030].The device's control unit is programmed to generate the monaural beats within the specified frequency range and deliver them through the sound emitter. The user-activated button is intuitive and easy to press, which is particularly important during moments of heightened anxiety when cognitive functions may be impaired. The device's rechargeable battery ensures that it is available whenever needed, and the simplicity of the design allows users to integrate it into their daily routines without difficulty. The wearable's minimalistic design also makes it suitable for use in any setting, whether at work, social events, or at home, providing a discreet way to manage anxiety.
[0031].The method of using the device involves wearing it continuously, especially during situations where anxiety triggers are likely to occur. For example, individuals who experience social anxiety can use the device during social gatherings or presentations. The simple action of pressing the button to activate the calming auditory beats provides an immediate reduction in anxiety symptoms, such as heart palpitations or hyperventilation, by inducing a relaxation response. This immediate effect not only helps in that moment but also contributes to the formation of new neural responses to the trigger, effectively building resilience against future anxiety episodes.
[0032].The device is designed for ease of use across a broad spectrum of anxiety-related conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety, and situational anxiety. It is intended to be used either as a standalone device or alongside other treatments, such as medication or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Unlike pharmacological treatments, which often come with side effects such as drowsiness, dependency, or withdrawal symptoms, this device provides a non-invasive, drug-free option for managing anxiety. By empowering users to actively intervene during anxious moments, the device fosters a sense of control, which is often lacking in individuals suffering from anxiety.
[0033].Moreover, the repeated use of the device helps foster new neural responses, ultimately leading to long-term changes in brain behavior. Neuroplasticity requires consistent, repeated stimuli for new connections to form effectively. The wearable device provides a structured way for users to apply these repeated stimuli, which is crucial for long-term changes. By integrating the use of auditory stimulation with neuroplastic changes, users can achieve a significant reduction in anxiety severity over time. The ability to self-administer the therapy at any time also means that users are not reliant on scheduled appointments or external healthcare interventions, making the treatment accessible and user-driven.
[0034].In addition, the simplicity and non-intrusive nature of the wearable make it suitable for use by individuals of varying ages and anxiety levels, including teenagers, adults, and elderly individuals who may struggle with chronic anxiety. The wearable form factor is also highly accessible, as it is comfortable, portable, and can be activated discreetly without attracting attention. This is particularly important for individuals who may feel stigmatized or embarrassed about their anxiety, as they can use the device in public without drawing notice.
[0035].In summary, the present invention provides a novel, dual-action approach to anxiety management by combining immediate symptom relief through auditory stimulation with long-term anxiety reduction through neuroplasticity. The wrist-wearable device is designed to be convenient, non-invasive, and user-friendly, allowing individuals to manage anxiety in real time and foster long-term changes in their neural responses to anxiety triggers. The combination of monaural beat stimulation and neuroplastic training provides an innovative, evidence-based method for managing anxiety, making it a valuable addition to the existing approaches to mental health treatment. By empowering individuals to actively engage in their mental well-being, the invention represents a significant advancement in the field of anxiety management technologies.
[0036].The present invention offers an innovative, wearable solution for managing anxiety by combining neuroplasticity and auditory stimulation through low-frequency sound waves. This wrist-wearable device empowers users to proactively respond to anxiety triggers by pressing a button that emits calming monaural beats within the Theta, Alpha, and Gamma frequency ranges. The device provides immediate relief from anxiety symptoms while encouraging the development of new neural pathways over time, thereby reducing the automatic anxiety response associated with old neural connections.
[0037].By leveraging the brain's natural ability to adapt and reorganize itself, the invention provides a non-invasive, drug-free alternative for anxiety management. The simplicity of the design makes it accessible and easy to use in any setting, offering users a discreet, on-demand method to regain control over their mental well-being. Furthermore, the dual-action mechanism of providing short-term relaxation and fostering long-term neuroplasticity sets this device apart as a practical and sustainable approach for reducing anxiety levels in a wide range of individuals.
[0038].The invention addresses the limitations of existing treatments by providing a convenient, user-driven solution that reduces dependency on pharmacological interventions and external therapy. It is suitable for individuals experiencing various forms of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and situational anxiety. By integrating modern neuroscience into wearable technology, the invention makes anxiety relief accessible, empowering users to take control of their anxiety and improve their overall quality of life. , Claims:1.A wrist-wearable anxiety reduction device, comprising:
a) A wearable structure configured to be worn on the wrist;
b) A user-activated button disposed on the wearable structure;
c) A sound emitter configured to emit low-frequency sound waves between 6-40 Hz when the user-activated button is pressed.
2.The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the low-frequency sound waves include frequencies corresponding to cortical rhythms, such as Theta (6 Hz), Alpha (10 Hz), and Gamma (40 Hz) frequencies.
3.The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sound emission is configured to create a relaxation effect, thereby reducing anxiety levels in the user.
4.The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the repeated activation of the user-activated button and the subsequent emission of the low-frequency sound waves generate new neural pathways, reducing the severity of anxiety triggers over time.
5.A method for reducing anxiety, comprising:
a) Providing a wearable device;
b) Activating the button upon sensing an anxiety trigger;
c) Emitting low-frequency sound waves between 6-40 Hz in response to the activation;
d) Repeatedly activating the button to create new neural pathways while weakening old pathways associated with anxiety triggers.
6.The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the sound emission is used to create a buffer between the trigger and the anxiety response, promoting neuroplasticity in the user.

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