Mindfulness as a tool to support ADHD symptoms

Mindfulness as a tool to support ADHD symptoms


Mindfulness practice improves the functioning of the prefrontal cortex




OTAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD) has long been questioned about its existence. More than a difficulty paying attention, it is a neurobiological disorder, affecting the executive functions of the brain. Mindfulness can be used as a supportive tool for people with ADD/ADHD, helping them to become aware of when their attention is shifting so they can renew their focus on a given topic.

The research points out that the practice of full attention – the principle of Mindfulness – decreases the activation of the amygdala and, therefore, improves the functioning of the prefrontal cortex. Located behind the frontal lobe of the brain, this structure is associated with the ability to monitor attentional conflicts.

With the practice of Mindfulness it is possible to notice an improvement in attentional, emotional and behavioral regulation. The practice has also been incorporated into protocol interventions.

Among researches, 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 programs, lasting eight to ten weeks, applied to parents and children. Studies have indicated an improvement in attention, impulsivity, and self-directed behavior.

What is self-regulation?

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.

Therefore, ADD/ADHD is a condition in which the brain has a strong tendency to be distracted and distracted. Dr. Kathia Matias also states that it can be accompanied by other characteristics such as impulsivity, hyperactivity (ADHD) and that it also has comorbidities – the existence of two or more simultaneous diseases, such as mood and anxiety disorders, nutrition and personality.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Psychologist and professor Russel Barkley, a physician and researcher in the Department of Psychiatry at the State University of New York Upstate Medical University, in the United States, was one of the main authors of a large body of literature 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.

The frontal lobe, according to psychiatrist Katiha Matias, is the conductor of our behavior and has three regions involved in reasoning, decision making, emotions and feelings:

  • Ventromedian region: Impairs decision making (reason x emotion);
  • Somatosensory region: located in the right hemisphere (makes decisions with emotions and feelings). Its deregulation is responsible for the physical symptoms of tachycardia, sweating, tremors, among others;
  • Dorsolateral region: Deregulation impairs decision making (emotions and feelings). There is an impairment of cognition here, both for speech and numbers.

The scientific community already includes Mindfulness as a support in the multidisciplinary treatment of ADD/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.

The mail Mindfulness as a tool to support ADHD symptoms 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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