Neurofeedback Treatment for ADHD Recommended as a “Best Support” Intervention by American Academy of Pediatrics
Neurofeedback or EEG Biofeedback for ADHD has gained research support over the years and it is exciting to report that ADHD responds positively to Neurofeedback. In fact studies indicate that Neurofeedback appears to be as effective as medication, as reported by Duke University research scientist David Rabiner, Ph.D. in Attention Research Update.
With Neurofeedback treatment, the individual concentrates on a particular stimuli shown in the screen of a computer. They try to retain a smile on a smiling face or keep the video playing through focused attention.
In October 2012, the American Academy of Pediatrics considered neurofeedback as “Best Support” Intervention for ADHD. This is a Level 1 rating and has the same level of efficacy as medication treatment. Proponents for Neurofeedback treatment for ADHD say that this results in more attentive behavior during school hours and in other important activities.
How does Neurofeedback treatment compare with medication treatment in terms of efficacy? Throughout the years, medication treatment has been the most common form of medication for ADHD individuals. In studies evaluated by Attention Research Update, these two treatments resulted in important benefits that were not too different from one another. Although the studies made on the reliability of Neurofeedback treatment as opposed to medication treatment may not have covered all angles, results indicated that this treatment is at par with the benefits resulting from medication or even slightly better. One study even indicated that Neurofeedback treatment resulted in improvement at the academic level, which medication treatment does not provide. At this point in time, more research is needed.. But for parents of children with ADHD and for adults diagnosed with ADHD, there is a viable option, one that does not involve drugs. We have to factor in the possible side effects and that long-term prescription drug use might possibly harm vital organs of the body like the kidneys.
Other non-medication therapies that are also effective in treating ADHD are:
Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Assertiveness Training, Contingency Management (for children and teens), Biofeedback (akin to Neurofeedback, Family Therapy and/or Family Psychoeducation, Green Therapy, Play Therapy, Talk Therapy, Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Relationship Counseling, positive dietary changes, adding more structure to daily routine, one-on-one attention.
Attention Research Update http://www.helpforadd.com/ by David Rabiner, Ph.D. is well worth subscribing to for insightful analysis on ADHD.
