About Computer Treatments for ADHD

The symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are often treated with medication, but some researchers and therapists are treating the core issues of hyperactivity and inattention with innovative computer technology. This is more than typical game-playing. Computer treatments for ADHD use neurofeedback or biofeedback to improve ADHD symptoms.

Definition

• The theory behind neurofeedback is that brain waves in people with ADHD do not operate in the same range as their neurotypical peers. Computer games utilizing neurofeedback provide a visual representation of the brain waves in real time, allowing people to take action that changes the brain waves and brings them back into a healthy range. In the same way that physical exercise strengthens muscles, consistently altering brain waves trains the brain to maintain healthy patterns. This results in improved ADHD symptoms.

Neurofeedback

• A new wave of computer programs uses headgear to measure the brain's electrical activity as games are played. The headgear sends information about the brain waves to the software, the waves are interpreted, and they then have an effect on the game. Waves that are not in a healthy range have a negative impact, so the player can consciously create a change in his brain waves and see the immediate response through successful game play.

Attention Training Systems

• This type of computer game also uses headgear to read brain waves, but the games are more targeted to increase attention. They may require the player to focus on a moving object, or alter aspects of game play that require sustained attention to specific tasks.

Biofeedback

• These computer programs take a different approach, using fingertip sensors to obtain biofeedback. Their goal is to teach the player how to relax. The graphics in the game take different forms, and the player must reach and maintain a relaxed state to make items respond. The player may need to make a wheel turn or make floating objects move up or down by altering her emotions. As in any computer game, there are a variety of levels, and a goal must be met before moving on to the next one.

Video Games

• Operating on the same principle as the computer games, headgear reads brains waves and uses them to impact the video game being played. In one car racing game, the neurofeedback affects the controller, causing it to be less responsive until the player brings his brain waves back into a healthy range.

Research

• The Institute for Behavioral Health in Commack, NY, keeps statistics of their patients with ADHD being treated with computer-based therapy. They show that 82 percent reduced their hyperactivity and 82.8 percent exhibited improved attention. As of August 2009, two clinical trials were under way to test the effectiveness of computer training in those with ADHD. Researchers at Tufts Medical Center have reported preliminary success testing computer-based training with children.