When two tones of slightly different frequencies are played in separate ears simultaneously (usually through headphones), the human brain perceives the creation of a new, third tone, whose frequency is equivalent to the difference between the two tones being played. This auditory illusion is called a binaural beat. For example, if a person hears a tone of 405 Hz in one ear and a tone of 415 Hz in
What Is Binaural Beats? (Plain Language Explanation)
Binaural Beats refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Binaural Beats
- Symptoms: The specific ways binaural beats shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen binaural beats
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When binaural beats occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Binaural Beats
- Binaural Beats is far more common than most people realize
- Binaural Beats is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with binaural beats see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about binaural beats is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing binaural beats, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.