Weak Electric Current to the Brain May Improve Thinking in People with Schizophrenia

A new study proposes that low-impact electrical stimulation of the brain could prove beneficial for the short-term memories of individuals suffering from schizophrenia. Researchers from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine conducted a study on low-voltage stimulation, later publishing a paper in the journal Clinical Schizophrenia and Related Psychoses. Transcranial direct current stimulation is an experimental process in which low voltage is transferred between electrodes attached to the head. Currently, the process is being tested by both medical researchers and amateur enthusiasts who claim it has performance benefits. In this instance, individuals with schizophrenia showed improved memory in testing as well as increased fluency in word selection. “What’s nice about transcranial direct current stimulation is that it’s so benign. There are no bad side effects,” explained the lead researcher. “If it enables people with schizophrenia to think more clearly, it would make a huge contribution to the treatment of this devastating illness.” To learn more about this study, click here.