Alpha and Beta Powers in EEG: How Audio-Visual Stimulation Influences Anxiety

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Abstract
This study aimed to reduce alpha and beta brainwave power through external audio-visual stimulation (AVS) and to evaluate its clinical effect on anxiety levels, as measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), alongside electroencephalography (EEG) data. Thirty participants received AVS, while 12 received audio-visual white noise as a control. EEG recordings were obtained before, during, and after the stimulation. A digital FFT-based power spectrum analysis was performed, and raw sum values (sum of spectral line values) within defined frequency ranges were extracted. The STAI was administered to assess both trait and state anxiety. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS. In the AVS group, significant reductions in alpha and beta power were observed between the pre-, during-, and post-stimulation phases (p < 0.05). Comparison of pre- and post-STAI scores revealed a statistically significant decrease in anxiety levels within the AVS group (p < 0.001), with no similar effect observed in the control group. Audio-visual stimulation significantly reduced alpha and beta EEG power during exposure and led to a marked decrease in self-reported anxiety. These findings provide both neurophysiological and clinical support for the use of AVS as a nonpharmacological method to alleviate anxiety symptoms.

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