Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, better known as ADHD, is a behavioral disorder commonly seen in both children and adults. This complex condition can be difficult to confirm and diagnose, as it tends to have a wide spectrum of symptoms. Regardless of symptoms, its effects are experienced in all areas of one’s life.
A variety of medications and psychotherapy approaches have traditionally been used to manage the inattentive and hyperactive behaviors that are the hallmark of the disorder, but one less mainstream method can be quite useful in improving symptoms.
Read on to learn more about neurofeedback for ADHD. This innovative approach may be something for you to consider.
About Traditional ADHD Management
Behavioral therapy can go a long way toward helping those with ADHD to compensate for the difficulties they experience throughout their daily routines.
For example, making lists to aid in memory improvement or utilizing the feel of a small object in one’s hand to refocus a wandering mind are just two activities ADHD sufferers can begin to address their symptoms.
Working with a trained behavior specialist or a team of mental health professionals can reinforce the incorporation of such life changes.
Pharmacological methods are also often used, either alone or in conjunction with behavioral therapy, to alleviate issues associated with ADHD.
While it may seem a bit backward, prescription stimulants work well to positively affect the brain chemistry of individuals with ADHD. Two of the most widely prescribed of these stimulants are Ritalin and Adderall.
It’s important to note that not all sufferers respond well to medication, and finding the right prescription can be a process of trial and error.
The Effects of ADHD on the Brain
When those without ADHD are concentrating and working to solve a problem or to complete an activity, their brain processes begin to speed up. This increased activity leads to more efficient thinking, which is what is necessary to maintain the task at hand and to stay present at the moment.
The opposite occurs in the ADHD brain. Attempts at concentration and awareness lead the brain to slow in its processing, becoming less efficient. It is impossible for the person to simply switch gears and begin to work efficiently.
Neurofeedback is successful in changing attention and hyperactivity problems because it trains the brain to perform differently.
How Neurofeedback Works
Neurofeedback helps to improve brain functioning by increasing processing speed during times that require focus. It monitors various system reactions while an individual is performing various tasks.
The clinician can see the measured brain wave patterns in real time, leading to an understanding of their relation. These visual cues help the patient to associate the kinds of activities that can assist in higher productivity and impulse control.
These associations, in turn, become habits and eventually lead to the brain “rewiring” or “retraining” itself.
While neurofeedback is not yet used with regularity in training, it has shown to have a great deal of success. There is no one training that works for everyone, so this avenue may well be worth pursuing.
With offices in Longwood and Windermere, Advanced Health and Performance Institute is committed to providing you with the best neurofeedback protocols for ADHD. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
