Neuroactive steroids alter the excitability of membrane-bound receptors in the nervous system and have a modulatory role in the stress response and in epileptogenic activity. These changes can be detected in brain as well as in plasma. The resulting rapid (<1 min) action of neuroactive steroids might explain the success of some "alternative" approaches in seizure control. Design requirements for research to adequately examine relaxation training in epileptic patients, as well as corresponding changes in neuroactive steroid levels and seizure frequency, are described.

Stress, defined as a stimulus, a response, and an interaction between the person and the environment is eventually present in everyday life. Nevertheless, stress can be both dangerous and uncomfortable. Stress influences the corticotropin-releasing factor and the locus ceruleusnorepinephrine systems, which in turn impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the autonomic nervous system. At the same time, stress directly affects the immune system. Treatment by means of an alternative approach such as neurotherapy can enhance the immune system and thereby improve the patient's overall wellbeing.

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