ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

ADHD, also called attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a behavior disorder characterized by inattention, impulsivity and in many cases, hyperactivity.  It is estimated that nearly 12% of children in the United States are diagnosed with ADHD.

Three Primary Catagories/Symptoms of ADHD

Inattention

  • Easily distracted
  • Forgetfulness
  • Poor listening skills
  • Short attention span
  • Lack of organizational skills
  • Poor study skills for age

Impulsivity

  • Often interrupts others
  • Difficulty waiting for his or her turn
  • Impulsively blurts out answers
  • Takes frequent risks (often without thinking before acting)

Hyperactivity

  • Seems to be in constant motion; runs or climbs – always moving
  • Difficulty remaining seated
  • Often fidgets with or taps feet/hands
  • Talks excessively
  • Has  difficulty engaging in quiet activities
  • Loses or forgets things repeatedly and often
  • Inability to stay on task or complete any given task

Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback has demonstrated significant improvements in symptoms of ADD and ADHD after just 8-10 weeks.  This is accomplished by training abnormal brainwave patterns to produce normal organized patterns. 

NeuroFeedback Therapy for ADHD

At Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback, we use the most advanced neuro-training assessment and protocols to provide long lasting results for you/your child.  Our brain training protocols are tailored to help you increase the stability of the brain and improve its flexibility to move between mental states.  Neurofeedback teaches these brain areas to function better.  Many clients start to see improvements in impulse control, attention, focus, and mood after just 5 sessions of neurofeedback.

NeuroFeedback Therapy

  • A safe and natural approach
  • No risky side effects
  • Teaches the brain without chemicals
  • Effects are long-lasting
  • Children receiving neurofeedback therapy prior to age 12 or 13 tend to respond more quickly 
  • While under an MD’s supervision most people can either cut down or stop using medication after successfully completing the required number of sessions

Untreated ADHD

Untreated ADHD can be problematic throughout life.  People with ADHD tend to have short attention spans and be impulsive, making it harder to succeed in school, at work, in relationships, and many areas of life.

Children with Untreated ADHD

  • Trouble learning, fall behind in school or get poor grades
  • Struggle to control their emotions – anger, aggression, and outbursts
  • Social problems – inability to share toys, play with others or make/keep friends
  • Low self-esteem and self confidence
  • More visits to emergency room with injuries

Teenagers with Untreated ADHD

  • May not have many friends 
  • Struggle with dating and relationships
  • Low self-esteem and depression
  • Problems getting along with parents
  • Increased risk of dangerous behaviors (alcohol, drugs, sex)
  • May be involved in more car accidents

Adults with Untreated ADHD

  • Employment problems – often can’t keep a job
  • A poor sense of time – frequent lateness
  • Severe Procrastination – difficulty completing tasks 
  • Feeling overwhelmed

What is Stimulant Therapy? (Medication)

Stimulant therapy (medication) is the most common treatment for ADHD.  Stimulant medication is designed to stimulate the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is associated with pleasure, attention, and movement.  There are currently more than 15 different stimulant medications being prescribed for ADD/ADHD.  In many cases, there may be changes to the medication prescribed or to the dosage, if the initial medication is not effective or creates unfavorable side effects.


This method of treatment includes ongoing doctor appointments and can require years of therapy, creating added stress on both the children and parents or care takers. 

ADHD medication side effects

Common side effects of ADHD medication

  1. Loss of appetite
  2. Sleep problems
  3. Nausea and headaches
  4. Sudden mood changes
  5. Costs (monetary and time)

Does Medication Fix the Problem?

Medication is meant to treat the symptoms but is not a cure for ADD/ADHD.  Stimulant medication provides great improvement in symptoms for some; however, others often have unwanted side effects or simply do not get the results they are hoping for. As with other mental health conditions, medications do not teach the brain to function differently.  As soon as one stops taking the medication the brain returns to the same patterns that produced the initial symptoms.

For more information on how Neurofeedback can help ADHD