Unmasking the Signs of ADHD in Adults: Is Neurofeedback a Possible Treatment?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition commonly associated with children and teenagers. However, ADHD affects adults too. In many cases, the effects can be even more challenging for adults than for children, especially when it comes to processing the demands and responsibilities of adult life.

Approximately 5% of adults in the United States are estimated to suffer from  ADHD, according to research published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, but many are living their lives undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The condition can be disruptive and even devastating, significantly compromising someone’s quality of life, work performance, relationships and overall wellbeing.  

By identifying the common signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults, more people suffering will be able to receive the right treatment and manage the condition effectively. Moreover, it may be possible to address the condition with Neurofeedback therapy. 

Inattention: When an adult suffers from ADHD, he or she may exhibit an inability to focus on tasks. This means struggling to listen during conversations, forgetting appointments and having a hard time following through on daily responsibilities.

Hyperactivity: Hyperactivity may not be not as common in adults as it is in children but many adults with ADHD do experience persistent restlessness, fidgeting and impulsiveness. Patients often report feeling constantly “on the go,” finding it difficult to sit still and relax. 

Impulsivity: Adults with ADHD often exhibit impulsive behavior and take actions without thinking. It is not uncommon for them to interrupt others, make rash decisions or frequently engage in risky behavior. Unsurprisingly, such impulsivity can be detrimental to work performance and interpersonal relationships. 

Emotional Instability: Another symptom commonly seen in adults with ADHD is difficult regulating emotions. They may become easily frustrated, irritable and overwhelmed – even with seemingly simple tasks. This can lead to mood swings and long-term stress.

Challenges in Time Management: Many times, an adult with ADHD will struggle to manage their time effectively. The result can be missed deadlines, incomplete projects and late payments. This is often the result of forgetfulness, procrastination or underestimating the time needed to complete a task. 

Poor Organization and Planning: Poor organization is a hallmark sign of ADHD in adults. They may have cluttered workspaces, which impedes on their productivity. In the long term, suffers often have trouble planning for the future and setting realistic goals for themselves. 

Inability To Follow Instructions: ADHD sufferers may sometimes go “off-script” and struggle to “stick to the map” when it comes to following instructions. This happens due to the difficulties in maintaining attention, retaining information and organizing tasks. Adults with ADHD also tend to become distracted easily and may find it hard to get back on track.

Is Neurofeedback therapy a potential treatment option?

ADHD is a frustrating condition that can trigger many problems and disrupt the life of the sufferer – as well as those around them. But if you or an adult you care about are affected by ADHD, there are options for safe, effective care. 

One of those options is particularly self-empowering and begins in the brain. Neurofeedback therapy – a non-invasive, drug-free and personalized treatment – uses real-time brainwave monitoring and feedback. This can help sufferers self-regulate their brainwaves, while improving their focus and attention. Over time, patients learn to better manage their symptoms so they can be more successful in their day-to-day lives. 

At the first session, the patient will sit down in front of a computer screen and wear a special cap with sensors that measure brain activity. As he or she watches a video or plays a game on the screen, real-time feedback about your brainwaves will be delivered. Subconsciously, your brain will learn to identify when it is in a state of optimal focus and attention.

Over time, through more Neurofeedback therapy sessions, the brain will learn to adopt “favorable” brainwaves – which improves the patient’s ability to focus and pay attention. As a result, he or she will stay on task, complete projects and feel less distracted throughout the day.

Next steps

If you are ready to take the next step in your treatment or the treatment of a loved one, please contact us to schedule a consultation at no charge. Through this consultation, we can determine if Neurofeedback therapy is the right treatment for alleviating your ADHD. 

We are here to help.