Mindfulness and ADHD: the practice relieves symptoms and helps to regain concentration

Mindfulness and ADHD: the practice relieves symptoms and helps to regain concentration


Mindfulness practice improves the functioning of the prefrontal cortex

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, known by the acronym ADHD, is more than just a difficulty paying attention. It is a neurobiological disorder, affecting the executive functions of the brain. But Mindfulness and ADHD can be a great combination.

also called Full attention, awareness it is a tool to support the symptoms of ADHD, because it helps the person to notice when the attention is diverted and, with this, to regain concentration.

How mindfulness works with ADHD

The research points out that mindfulness practice decreases activation of the amygdala, therefore improves the functioning of the prefrontal cortex, a structure located behind the frontal lobe of the brain that is associated with the ability to monitor attention conflicts.

With the practice of Mindfulness it is possible to notice an improvement in attentional, emotional and behavioral regulation.

Teasdale (1995) demonstrated that practice effectively improves skills such as attention control and reduction of automatic response rate.

Heeren and Philippot (2011) and Semple (2010) presented numerous works on improving executive functions with practice, such as: memory, attention and cognitive control.

These works were based on structured Mindfulness programs, lasting 8-10 weeks, applied to parents and children. Studies have also indicated an improvement in attention, impulsivity, and self-directed behavior.

Mindfulness helps with self-regulation

Psychologist, physician and researcher at the Department of Psychiatry of the State University of New York Upstate Medical University (USA), Russell Barkley has been one of the main responsible for the progress of science in this field. According to him, Attention Deficit is a self-regulation disorder, linked to neuropsychological processes that depend on the frontal lobes of the brain.

  • Self-regulation is the ability to direct one’s conduct towards a goal, that is, to direct behavior towards a specific goal. Through executive functions, we have the necessary tools for this.

ADHD is a condition in which the brain has a strong tendency to wander and distraction, and can be accompanied by other characteristics such as impulsivity and hyperactivity. Furthermore, it may present comorbidities (existence of two or more simultaneous pathologies), such as mood and anxiety disorders, nutrition and personality disorders.

Therefore, the scientific community already includes Mindfulness as a support in the multidisciplinary treatment for ADHD and considers its positive effects, as well as therapy, psychoeducation, psychiatry and drugs.

The human mind is very complex and any help in our evolution, functioning and well-being is very welcome.

Mindfulness practices

If you suffer from ADHD, seek out a Mindfulness specialist to help you (if needed, I am here). Below, we share some mindfulness practices that you can try and, who knows, feel the benefits in your own life.

The mail Mindfulness and ADHD: the practice relieves symptoms and helps to regain concentration appeared first on Personalize.

Fernanda Miguez (contato@fernandamiguez.com.br)

– She is an astrologer trained by the Astrology Society of Rio de Janeiro (SARJ) and creator of the Astrology of Consciousness Project. She worked for 10 years in the team of astrologer Maria Eugênia de Castro and as a contributor to 13 books in the area. She is an engineer from the UERJ, she is currently studying Psychology. She is trained in the area of ​​self-knowledge, works as a Mindfulness trainer at MTi (Mindfulness Trainings International) and is Professor of Cultivation of Emotional Balance at Albert Einstein-SP.

Source: Terra

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