Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common mental health disorder found in children and adults alike. Individuals who are suffering from ADHD show signs of above-normal hyperactivity and impulsive behavior which, in turn, makes it challenging for them to focus as they have limited attention spans. In many cases, it also makes it difficult for them to remain still in one place for long periods.
Experts involved in ADHD treatment in Dubai note that the disorder is usually chronic, with prominent symptoms and impairments affecting someone from childhood into adulthood. That being said, more and more adults are being diagnosed with ADHD for the first time.
If you want to learn more about ADHD and possible treatments, such as neurofeedback for ADHD, keep reading for everything you need to know.
1. What are the symptoms of ADHD?
The only way to accurately diagnose ADHD is by having a medical professional conduct an analysis; however, there are several behaviors that are closely associated with ADHD, and can be potential symptoms. The most obvious of these is a shortage of attention span, resulting in difficulty focusing and frequently being distracted. Additionally, forgetfulness, fidgeting, hyperactivity, excessive talking, and restlessness are all common symptoms. Finally, if an individual demonstrates impulsive behavior or often interrupts others, this also may be a symptom of ADHD.
In many cases, an individual suffering from ADHD may also have a challenging time regulating their emotions and cognitive processes, which can affect their individual lives and those of people who are close to them.
2. Why is it important to treat ADHD?
For an individual who has ADHD, daily life can be a challenge. After all, if you can’t control your attention span (and don’t have much to begin with), it can be difficult to pay attention in school or do well at your job. This is why a child with ADHD can get easily distracted and have a tough time in a traditional learning setting. For adults, this may play out as interrupting workflows and leading to procrastination.
Moreover, due to ADHD, those suffering from it have a higher likelihood of also experiencing other psychiatric issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder, and substance use disorders and addictions. Therefore, it is imperative that ADHD is treated.
The purpose of treating ADHD is to make daily life easier and more enjoyable for those suffering from this mental health disorder. There is no denying that ADHD significantly affects an individual’s ability to be happy and get things done; therefore, diagnosis and treatment should reduce the extent to which it affects their lives.
3. What are treatment options for ADHD?
There are several options when it comes to treating ADHD; however, not all of them are as effective or as beneficial as each other.
Medication is one of the most common treatments for ADHD both in Dubai and around the world. In many cases, it can effectively reduce hyperactivity and increase an individual’s focus and attention span. To obtain ADHD medication, an individual must have it prescribed by licensed psychiatrists and be closely supervised while taking it. There are several downsides to ADHD medication, including sleeping issues, loss of appetite, irritability, and mood swings. For these reasons, many individuals choose to stop taking the medicine, which inhibits them from getting the timely and effective treatment they need.
Therefore, alternative ADHD treatment methods have started to become more popular. One of the most effective (and exciting) new methods is electroencephalographic biofeedback (EEG), a non-invasive method of neurotherapy that measures an individual’s brain waves and gives feedback to help the brain self-regulate.
When you opt for neurofeedback treatment, your brain activity is measured using sensors and special software that relays the information back to the brain in real-time via audio and video display. Through these sessions, your brain is able to learn about its activity so that it can work to adjust itself for better performance.
4. What is the process for neurofeedback for ADHD sessions?
If you decide to opt for neurofeedback as an ADHD treatment, you will first start by having an initial consultation where you will discuss your needs and goals with a professional. From there, they will conduct a neuropsychosocial assessment to obtain more information regarding your brain’s current strengths and weaknesses. Once this is complete, they can design a customized training plan for your brain’s needs.
Then, your neurofeedback training sessions will start. Of course, every brain is different, so your plan is going to be personalized for you. However, in many cases, it is recommended that you have 20 sessions to ensure long-lasting beneficial effects.
5. How effective is neurotherapy for ADHD?
Neurotherapy is quickly becoming one of the most effective treatments for ADHD as it is powerful at aiding individuals in improving their brain’s self-regulation. This, in turn, helps them to perform better cognitively, emotionally, and behaviorally. In fact, neurotherapy is so beneficial that it is also recommended as a valuable tool for any individual looking to enhance their brain’s capacity, potential, and performance.
The scientific literature on neurofeedback demonstrates that it effectively treats ADHD and other neurological conditions, including anxiety, anger management, depression, learning disabilities, memory loss, migraine, sleep disorders, and stress. This collection of evidence-based literature is sufficient and continues to grow.
Final Thoughts
If you or a loved one is suffering from ADHD, then you know how the mental disorder stands in the way of having the best quality of life possible. Therefore, it is crucial to look for treatment as soon as possible so that you don’t waste any more time before you can lead the most fulfilled and successful life possible.
The most effective ADHD treatment in Dubai is undoubtedly neurofeedback, as you don’t have to be concerned about taking medication. No matter how old you are or how long you have been suffering, neurofeedback for ADHD can start improving the quality of your life right away.
Are you currently looking for ADHD treatment? Are you interested in neurofeedback as an option? Why or why not? Let us know your thoughts and any additional questions you have in the comments below.
AUTHOR BIO
Dr. Upasana Gala is the founder and CEO of Evolve Brain Training, an award-winning neurofeedback-centered institute that focuses on using non-invasive brain training techniques to maximize the brain’s true potential. Earning a doctorate in Neuroscience from the revered Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Gala has spent over a decade trying to unravel the way neurochemical and neurophysiological changes in the brain affect the way we interact with the world. Her goal is to share her knowledge, encourage others to tap into and expand their brain’s capabilities, and dispel any myths surrounding our most complex organ.
Photo by Chase Clark on Unsplash
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
