Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects children, teens and adults. It causes problems with attention, hyperactivity and behaviour. It makes it hard to sit still, pay attention and control behaviors or emotions.

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. It affects about 5-9 percent of school-age children and adolescents, often seriously affecting academic performance. 

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is three times more common among boys than girls. The number of children diagnosed has increased over the past decade, likely due to greater awareness and recognition of the disorder. More than 4 million Canadians have it.

Symptoms of ADHD

Three main signs:

• Inattention
• Hyperactivity (restlessness)
• Impulsivity (acting before thinking)

We share some examples with you here to get a better understanding of the condition

• fidgeting or squirming
• inability to play quietly
• talking excessively
• difficulty waiting for things, like their turn in line or the end of a school day
• forgetfulness and losing things like toys, pencils and books
• being easily distracted by external stimuli such as noise or movement; getting sidetracked by unimportant thoughts or events; trouble paying attention to details
• makes careless mistakes;
• Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities; does not appear to listen when spoken to directly;
• does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behaviour or failure to understand instructions);
• Has trouble organizing tasks and activities. The symptoms of ADHD must be present before age 12 and cause significant impairment in at least two areas of life (home life and school).

Causes of ADHD

The exact cause is unknown. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder does not discriminate by race, gender or socioeconomic status; however, certain factors make it more likely for someone to develop this condition. Researchers believe that genetics and environmental factors play a role in the development of the disorder.

• Studies have shown that ADHD runs in families, suggesting that genes are involved in causing it. If one parent has it, there’s an increased chance that another family member will have it, too; identical twins have a higher likelihood than non-identical twins
• Researchers also think changes in certain brain chemicals might be responsible for the symptoms.
• Another well-spoken theory is exposure to environmental toxins during pregnancy and childhood
• And finally, if the mother has diabetes while pregnant

Treatment for ADHD

While medication is often prescribed to manage these symptoms, non-medical interventions such as behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes can also be effective. A psychiatrist or healthcare professional can help individuals develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in ADHD

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a specialized form of psychotherapy that has been proven effective in reducing the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This approach is based on the idea that thoughts and feelings affect behaviors and that changing our thinking can change our behavior.

Sensory Processing Therapy in ADHD

Sensory processing therapy (SPT) is a broader term encompassing various therapeutic approaches to improve sensory processing abilities. SPT aims to help individuals with sensory processing difficulties better understand and regulate their responses to sensory input.

It involves working with a therapist who can provide various sensory experiences and activities designed to help the individual learn how to respond appropriately to different types of sensory input. Through this therapy, individuals can improve their ability to function in daily life, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve their overall quality of life.

Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) for ADHD 

Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a specific type of SPT that uses music to regulate the autonomic nervous system and improve social engagement. Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) therapy is a neurologically-based intervention aiming to enhance social engagement and regulate the autonomic nervous system. By stimulating the vagus nerve, Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) helps individuals with ADHD better process sensory information and regulate their emotions.

While Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) and SPT can benefit individuals with ADHD, Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) therapy has shown promising results in reducing hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) therapy explicitly targets the auditory system through specialized music and sound frequencies. As research continues, Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) therapy may become an increasingly important tool in treating ADHD in adults.

What Does Safe and Sound Protocol Therapy Look Like at The Insight Clinic?

Safe and Sound Protocol is a non-invasive listening therapy for the individual journey of our client toward improved nervous system regulation. Our Safe and Sound Protocol is a therapeutic method based on scientific research that aims to restore safety to the nervous system. Our Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) utilizes specially filtered music that stimulates the vagus nerve and is made to be used in conjunction with our other therapeutic modalities and approaches in the clinic.

The Safe and Sound Protocol is a non-invasive acoustic vagus nerve stimulator that enables your clients to connect with themselves, others, and the world from a position of physiological safety. Dr. Stephen Porges, the creator of the Polyvagal Theory, created it. 

Through over-the-ear headphones that can be delivered in-clinic or remotely, our client listens to the SSP playlists. Using the neural network linked to hearing activates the ventral vagal complex. Use the algorithmically filtered music of the SSP to shift the nervous system into safety. We offer this therapy to patients with many mental conditions. Contact our team, book your first free discovery session, and choose your therapist.

Conclusion

ADHD in adults is a brain condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Patients have been increasingly recognized in recent years. Recent research studies have shown that Sensory Processing Therapy (SSP) can effectively manage it in adults. Compared to other treatments, SSP has been found to have fewer side effects and can provide longer-lasting benefits.

SSP therapy typically involves a series of sessions over several weeks or months, during which patients are exposed to specific sensory stimuli designed to help them regulate their responses. Studies have shown SSP can significantly improve executive functioning and social communication, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve adults’ overall quality of life. Contact us to learn more or book an appointment