A cranial electrotherapy stimulation ('CES') device (24) which generates periodic electrical signals is connected between the forehead and wrist area of a human being in order to affect electrical activity in the brain and thereby decrease the individual's craving for controlled substances such as alcohol and drugs and reduce anxiety, insomnia and depression. A portable, cranial electrical stimulator is preferably mounted adjacent the arm area or worn about the waist of a patient. A first electrode (28) is attached to the forehead of the patient, preferably above the bridge of the nose between the eyes, and a second electrode (34) is attached to the wrist area of one arm, preferably at the radial artery. Periodic electrical pulses are applied for at least 20 minutes between the forehead and wrist electrode. As a result, electrical activity in the brain is affected, in particular, the amplitude of P300 electrical brain activity is increased. Since decreased P300 activity is associated with increased patient interest in drugs and alcohol, the use of the CES in this way makes it less likely that the patient will desire such controlled substances.
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