Exploring Neurofeedback for ADHD: What Parents Need to Know

Summary

• Neurofeedback is a method using brain signals to teach self-regulation for ADHD symptoms.
• Studies on neurofeedback for kids and teens show mixed results, with some benefits for inattention symptoms based on parent ratings but inconsistent outcomes from teachers and clinicians.
• When compared to other therapies like behavioural therapy or cognitive training, neurofeedback doesn’t consistently demonstrate clear benefits.
• Experts caution parents that there’s limited high-quality evidence supporting the effectiveness of neurofeedback for ADHD, and it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before considering it as a treatment option.

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Introduction

ADHD is a brain-related condition that can affect people of different ages. Parents often look for ways to help their children with ADHD, and one option gaining attention is neurofeedback. In this blog post, we’ll look at what research says about neurofeedback’s usefulness for ADHD, especially for kids, and discuss if it’s a good idea while waiting for a paediatrician’s advice.

Understanding Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback, or EEG Biofeedback, is a method that uses brain signals to teach self-regulation. By placing electrodes on the scalp, it helps individuals learn to control specific brain patterns associated with ADHD symptoms.

What Research Says for Kids and Teens

Studies explored different types of neurofeedback, but the evidence is a bit unclear. When compared to waiting for usual care, some studies showed neurofeedback helped with ADHD inattention symptoms according to parents, but results from teachers and doctors were not consistent.

However, when compared to other therapies like supportive therapy, exercise, and cognitive training, neurofeedback didn’t show any clear benefits. It didn’t seem better than behavioural therapy either.

Neurofeedback Versus Cognitive Training

When compared to cognitive training, neurofeedback seemed to help with ADHD symptoms according to parents, especially in a clinic setting. But when it came to school settings, cognitive training was better at addressing ADHD inattention symptoms.

What About Adults?

For adults with ADHD, the evidence is a bit mixed. Neurofeedback might help with self-reported ADHD symptoms, but when compared to other treatments like sham or cognitive-behavioural therapy, there weren’t clear differences.

What Experts Say

Experts looked at all this information and didn’t find strong proof that neurofeedback is a great choice. The studies had different results, and some were not of very high quality. The experts couldn’t say for sure that neurofeedback is better than other options.

Considerations for Parents

Parents, it’s important to know that while neurofeedback sounds promising, there isn’t enough good evidence to say it’s a definite help. The studies we have are not of the highest quality, and the results are not consistent. Before trying neurofeedback, it’s best to talk to your child’s doctor and consider other options that have more solid proof of helping with ADHD. It’s an ongoing area of research, so staying informed is key.

References:

Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline For Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD Guideline Development Group. Australian evidence-based clinical practice guideline for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity. Melbourne: Australian ADHD Professionals Association; 2022.