Neurofeedback and ADHD/ADD
A Natural Approach to Managing Symptoms
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) affect millions of children and adults worldwide. Symptoms such as difficulty focusing, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and trouble with organization can have a significant impact on daily life. While medication is often prescribed to manage these symptoms, there is a growing interest in neurofeedback as a non-invasive, drug-free approach to helping individuals with ADHD/ADD. But what exactly is neurofeedback, and how does it work for those with attention disorders?
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a type of brain training that helps individuals learn how to regulate their brainwaves. It operates on the principle that the brain can change and adapt, a principle often referred to as neuroplasticity. During neurofeedback, brain waves are monitored and adjusted in real time with the ultimate goal of achieving better neuropathways, and in turn, balanced brainwave patterns. A regulated balanced brain positively affects mood, attention, and behavior.
Benefits of Neurofeedback for ADHD/ADD
By rewarding the brain to normalize, neurofeedback aims to train the brain to operate in a balanced state. Brainwaves that are in balance help individuals with ADHD improve their focus, reduce impulsivity, and enhance their ability to complete tasks. There are also numerous additional benefits to using neurofeedback:
- Neurofeedback is non-invasive and drug-free. Medication often comes with a variety of potential side effects. Commonly, ADHD/ADD medications have side effects that include sleep problems, appetite changes, or mood swings. Neurofeedback offers a natural alternative for those who would prefer not to rely on medications.
- Individualized plans for each patient. Each neurofeedback program begins with a brain map, which shows the current pattern of brainwaves for the individual. From the brain map, a personalized plan to achieve a balanced brain while keeping the individuals’s goals in mind. This individualized approach can prioritize outcomes based on each individual’s starting point.
- Improvement in behavioral and cognitive functions. Studies have shown that neurofeedback can lead to significant improvements in attention, impulse control, academic performance, and behavior in children and adults associated with ADHD/ADD.
- Long-lasting effects. Unlike medication, which only works while it is in the system, neurofeedback has lasting results long after each session has been completed. Each session trains the brain to create new, better neuropathways which the brain learns to use on its own after repeated sessions allowing the individual to regulate their brain. These pathways will be used by the brain long into the future providing lasting results.
Scientific Evidence for Neurofeedback
While neurofeedback has been used for decades, its popularity is surging due to the positive results in reducing the symptoms of ADHD and ADD. Several studies have found that neurofeedback can significantly reduce symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. A review of controlled trials in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry reported that neurofeedback produced sustained improvements in ADHD symptoms, comparable to stimulant medications.
Is neurofeedback right for you?
If you or your child struggles with ADHD/ADD and you’re seeking an alternative to medication or have found that you or your child’s ADHD/ADD symptoms are not adequately controlled by medication, neurofeedback may be worth exploring. Neurofeedback is not a one-size-fits-all solution and it may take several training sessions to notice significant changes. However, neurofeedback offers a promising alternative to traditional treatments. It is always recommended that you consult a professional before beginning a new service. A Restored Mind offers free consultations to anyone considering neurofeedback. You can also get more information on our FAQs page, learn more about neurofeedback, and review neurofeedback research.
Reduce your ADHD/ADD symptoms – reach out for help today!
If you’re ready to consider a medication-free alternative for you or a loved one, reach out to A Restored Mind today! We can be reached online, or you can call us at (336) 480-7623.
