Galvanic Skin Response Features in Psychiatry and Mental Disorders: A Narrative Review

This narrative review is aimed at presenting the galvanic skin response (GSR) Biofeedback method and possibilities for its application in persons with mental disorders as a modern form of neurorehabilitation. In the treatment of mental disorders of various backgrounds and courses, attention is focused on methods that would combine pharmacological treatment with therapies improving functioning. Currently, the focus is on neuronal mechanisms which, being physiological markers, offer opportunities for correction of existing deficits. One such indicator is electrodermal activity (EDA), providing information about emotions, cognitive processes, and behavior, and thus, about the function of various brain regions. Measurement of the galvanic skin response (GSR), both skin conductance level (SCL) and skin conductance responses (SCR), is used in diagnostics and treatment of mental disorders, and the training method itself, based on GSR Biofeedback, allows for modulation of the emotional state depending on needs occurring. Summary: It is relatively probable that neurorehabilitation based on GSR-BF is a method worth noticing, which-in the future-can represent an interesting area of rehabilitation supplementing a comprehensive treatment for people with mental disorders.

Automated summary

This narrative review presents the possibilities of using galvanic skin response (GSR) biofeedback method in the neurorehabilitation of individuals with mental disorders. The measurement of electrodermal activity (EDA) can provide information about emotions, cognitive processes, and behavior, as well as the function of various brain regions. GSR measurement is used in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, and the GSR biofeedback training method allows for modulation of emotional state based on individual needs.