I saw Dr H today and she recommended I consider Psychic Feedback. This uses equipment akin to an EEG with electrodes attached to the scalp. The subject is then exposed to a stimulus and the apparatus shows what portion of the brain is being energized by the stimulus. The objective is to permit the subject to exploit the brain’s capacity for neuroplasticity.

The estimated cost of a single session is around $100. A full set of therapy sessions would cost $2,000. Dr H recommends I consider this therapy before spending money on further neuropsych testing.

There were a couple of embarrassing moments. Somehow, my movements triggered the security alarm in Dr H’s office. I’m not sure how I did this. The siren was extremely loud and very unexpected. Apparently one of the other building occupants had set the alarm not knowing we remained in the building. Once the alarm had been set, I moved, the alarm triggered, and the building screamed.

A second embarrassment came when Dr H asked me what Dr D had said to me during our meeting the previous Friday. I could not remember my dialog with Dr D apart from two notes I made at the time:

1. That I should consider obtaining neuropsych testing when I can afford it as this testing will provide a record of baseline function in the event I suffer a further loss of function due to adult onset dementia. Brain trauma increases the risk of dementia.
2. Dr D also suggested that I have my GP contact both her, and Dr H, so that my GP is aware of my situation and all of the prior work that has been done. It is possible that my GP knows of resources which may be available to me in Québec. I intended to discuss this GP update topic with Dr H, and obtain her participation, but I forgot to do so.

I am worried that my lack of recent memory may make it sound as if there was no benefit from the Friday meeting. This is not the case. I had a significant positive boost from Friday’s interaction and I am trying to carry that momentum forward. Dr D warned me that episodes of depression tend to be self reinforcing. Once the depression pathways are formed then the individual has a greater likelihood of recurrent depression. The converse also appears to be true. When one engages in positive behaviours, the positive pathways are reinforced and there is a lower likelihood of being subject to a future depressive event.