ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder, affecting an estimated 7.2% of children. (1) However, for a certain percentage of people, it continues to manifest well into adulthood. In many cases, it may seem as though every treatment and intervention for ADHD is geared toward children, leaving adults with ADHD wondering where to turn.
If you’re struggling with ADHD, it’s important to understand that the condition can present differently in adults than in children. But with timely intervention, individuals can learn coping strategies and skills that will help them succeed in school, work, and life. So whether you are an adult or a child, it’s worth knowing about brain training.
At NeuroZone, ErinBadour, CCC, SLP offers personalized consultations to help people of all ages with ADD/ADHD find constructive, effective ways of managing and improving their lives. Using the power of neurofeedback, clients can discover new brain training strategies that improve mental focus and increase attention span.
ADHD in Children
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder affects millions of children worldwide. It is characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, which can lead to difficulty in academic performance, social interactions, and daily activities. Diagnosing the condition requires a comprehensive evaluation that includes a thorough medical history, physical examination, and assessments of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional functioning.
Some of the most common signs of ADHD in children include:
- Finds it challenging to follow instructions
- Fidgets in their seat/gets up when not permitted
- Needs frequent reminders to pay attention
- Has trouble controlling impulsive behavior
- Has lots of energy, seemingly “driven by a motor”
- Seems daydreamy and “in their own world”
- Frequently loses or forgets things
- Has trouble finishing tasks
How Does ADHD Affect Adults?
ADHD is commonly associated with hyperactive behavior and difficulty concentrating in children, but when it persists into adulthood, it can look different. In general, the signs of the disorder may be more subtle. Where children may experience restlessness and bursts of energy, adults with ADHD may struggle with the following:
- Disorganization
- Forgetfulness
- Impulsivity
- Poor Time Management Skills
Additionally, studies show that adults with ADHD may be more prone to: (2)
- Driving Accidents
- Substance Abuse
- Comorbid Psychiatric Disorders
These symptoms can have a significant impact on their personal and professional lives, leading to decreased productivity, strained relationships, and low self-esteem. Moreover, many of these adults were never evaluated for ADHD as children, so have developed compensatory strategies. These coping mechanisms may or may not be helping their long-term success. (2)
How Do Adults with ADHD Feel?
It is important to acknowledge that many professionals believe there is an underdiagnosis of ADHD in adults. But where data is available, recent studies indicate that many adults with ADD/ADHD share similar experiences and perceptions. These include: (1)
- A sense of underachievement in life
- A feeling that they have not reached their full potential
- Diagnosed or undiagnosed anxiety and/or depression
- Difficulty coping with change or traumatic events (e.g. the Covid-19 pandemic)
- Discovering they have similar symptoms to their child currently diagnosed with ADHD
Examples of ADHD in Children & Adults
The two examples below illustrate some of the possible differences between childhood ADD/ADHD and adult ADD/ADHD and how they might present in real life.
Example 1
Noah is an 8-year-old who struggles with behavioral and academic issues at school. He moves around in his seat constantly and plays with items in his pencil case when he should be paying attention to his teacher. He often shouts out when he knows the answer to a question, and he frequently ignores people when they talk to him directly, even when they use his name.
Example 2
William is a 35-year-old office worker with a diagnosed anxiety disorder. He regularly finds it difficult to keep his projects organized. Although he knows when his deadlines are, he cannot prioritize which tasks should be done first, so is frequently overwhelmed. If he does not write down the information his supervisor relays to him, he is likely to forget what they said. Recently, William was involved in a car accident in which he hit another vehicle, so his insurance premium increased.
If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Erin at our Playa del Rey, Santa Monica, or Redondo Beach office. You can call us at (310) 821-3640 or visit our website to learn more.
Personal Consultation
Regardless of your age, dealing with ADHD can be challenging. But there is help out there for people struggling with its effects. During your personal consultation at NeuroZone, Erin will discuss your symptoms and concerns. She may suggest qEEG brain mapping to examine brain activity and identify any irregularities associated with ADHD. HSHe will then work with you to develop a customized neurofeedback treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
About Neurofeedback Brain Training
Neurofeedback is a non-invasive therapy that uses advanced technology to train the brain and improve its functioning. It has been found to be an effective treatment option for ADHD. At NeuroZone, we offer a personalized approach to treating ADHD using neurofeedback. Erin and her experienced team utilize state-of-the-art equipment and tailored protocols to help you achieve optimal brain function.
How Does it Work?
During a session, sensors are placed on the scalp to monitor brainwave activity, and the data is fed back to the patient in real time through audio and visual cues. Through repeated sessions, the brain learns to self-regulate, resulting in improved focus, attention, and behavior.
Research has shown that neurofeedback can lead to significant improvements in ADHD symptoms, including increased attention span, reduced impulsivity, and decreased hyperactivity. (3) At NeuroZone, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of care and support on their journey to positive habits and better brain health!
Brain Training Benefits
For Children:
- Improved academic performance
- Better behavior and focus in school and at home
- Enhanced social skills and relationships with peers
- Increased self-esteem and confidence
- Reduced impulsivity and hyperactivity
For Adults:
- Better time management and organization skills
- Improved productivity at work
- Enhanced relationships with family and friends
- Increased self-awareness and understanding of personal strengths and weaknesses
- Reduced impulsivity and distractibility
Treatment Protocols for ADD/ADHD at NeuroZone
Cost of Adult ADHD Brain Training in Santa Monica
The cost of your neurofeedback therapy may vary depending on various factors such as age, severity, and the individualized treatment you receive. At NeuroZone, we offer customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs, which can be incorporated into your existing ADHD management plan. Erin and her team will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive plan that will help you manage your ADHD symptoms effectively.
To learn more about our services or book an appointment at NeuroZone, please call (310) 821-3640 or complete a form on our website.
Learn more about biofeedback and brain training on the NeuroZone blog.
FAQ
How is adult ADHD diagnosed?
Diagnosing adult ADHD can be challenging since the symptoms may be subtler than those seen in children. A thorough medical history, physical exam, and psychological evaluation can help rule out other possible causes of symptoms. Additionally, self-reports from the patient and their family members or partners can be helpful in identifying ADHD symptoms.
What are some treatment options for adult ADHD?
Treatment for adult ADHD typically includes a combination of medication, therapy, behavior modification, and lifestyle changes. Stimulant medications such as Adderall and Ritalin are commonly prescribed to improve focus and attention. Therapy can help individuals learn coping strategies and address any underlying emotional or behavioral issues. Behavior modification strategies can help individuals develop positive habits. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep hygiene can also be beneficial.
Can adults outgrow ADHD?
While some children with ADHD may see improvement in symptoms as they age, ADHD is a lifelong condition that does not go away on its own. Adults who were not diagnosed with ADHD as children may have learned to compensate for their symptoms over time, but they may still experience challenges in certain areas. Seeking treatment and support can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Is it possible to have ADHD and not know it?
Yes, it is possible to have ADHD and not know it, especially if symptoms are mild or if an individual has developed coping mechanisms to manage their symptoms. Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD may have struggled with academic or career success, relationship problems, or substance abuse issues without understanding the underlying cause. Seeking an evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider can help identify and treat ADHD.
Can adults with ADHD benefit from neurofeedback treatment?
Yes, coaching can be an effective form of treatment for adults with ADHD. Qualified practitioners in neurofeedback techniques work with individuals to develop practical skills and strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their daily functioning. Neorofeedback can also help individuals set and achieve goals, maintain accountability, and stay motivated.
References
- Rivas-Vazquez RA, Diaz SG, Visser MM, Rivas-Vazquez AA. Adult ADHD: Underdiagnosis of a Treatable Condition. Journal of Health Service Psychology. Published online January 28, 2023. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s42843-023-00077-w
- Canela C, Buadze A, Dube A, Eich D, Liebrenz M. Skills and compensation strategies in adult ADHD – A qualitative study. Chao L, ed. PLOS ONE. 2017;12(9):e0184964. doi:https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0184964
- Arns M, de Ridder S, Strehl U, Breteler M, Coenen A. Efficacy of Neurofeedback Treatment in ADHD: The Effects on Inattention, Impulsivity and Hyperactivity: A Meta-Analysis. Clinical EEG and Neuroscience. 2009;40(3):180-189. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/155005940904000311
