ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This is a common neuro developmental condition affecting children. ADHD is first detected during childhood and proceeds up to adulthood.
Neurofeedback is a training that can help students with ADHD learn how to control their brain waves and also aims to reduce symptoms of ADHD. Neurofeedback is an ancient form of training that measures the brain’s waves or electrical activity. It is also known as electroencephalographic (EEG).
Signs, Symptoms, and Causes
Children suffering from ADHD do not grow out of the trouble of behaving and focusing, so it is a matter of controlling the symptoms or reducing them. Some of the common signs and symptoms are:
- Daydreaming a lot
- Losing or forgetting things
- Making careless mistakes
- Fidgeting or squirming
- Difficulty taking turns
Scientists are studying risk factors and causes of ADHD in order to explore better means of managing and reducing the chances of persons suffering from ADHD. Although the cause of ADHD remains unknown, studies show that genetics may be associated with this condition.
Diagnosis of ADHD
There are many conditions such as anxiety, depression or some other learning disabilities that have the same symptoms as ADHD.
The first step of determining whether a person has ADHD is by having them go through a medical exam which includes vision and hearing tests to rule out problems that have symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
The other part of a diagnosis involves determining the child’s medical history as well as a history of their behavior at home and school.
ADHD Training
ADHD is addressed using a combination of medication and behavior therapy. Children ages 4-5 years go for behavior therapy. There is no one training for this condition. Good training plans involve follow-ups, close monitoring and alteration in training.
How NeuroFeedback TrainingWorks
There are different kinds of brain wave activities that may be measured using an EEG machine. Beta (fast) waves can be monitored when you are concentrating or solving problems, while Theta (slow) waves can be monitored when you are daydreaming or drowsy.
Neurofeedback was formulated due to the fact that adults suffering from ADHD consist of excess theta waves and insufficient beta waves. Through measuring a patient’s brain waves and informing them when they switch from beta waves to theta waves, a patient can learn how to decrease their theta activity and increase their beta activity.
This feedback may be a sound that notifies you when your beta waves are activated or feedback that is incorporated in a video game.
Pros and Cons of the Neurofeedback Training
Pros
- Neurofeedback allows children, grown students and adults to control their physiology.
- Many parents avoid giving their children medication and opt for neurofeedback.
Cons
- The benefits are not lasting and are nothing compared to the benefits of medication
- Neurofeedback is alternative training that is not covered by insurance.
At the Advanced Health and Performance Institute, we provide neurofeedback training to kids through our Scholastic AHPI NeuroZone program. This training works with the varying kinds of ADD/ADHD. Our doctors and trainers can answer any questions or concerns you might have about our Scholastic AHPI NeuroZone program. If you are interested in signing your child up or want to learn more, please feel free to contact us today to schedule a consultation.
