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ADHD Occupational Therapy Interventions

Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder is a biochemical disorder with behavioral components. As such, the use of occupational therapy interventions to mitigate or treat ADHD has become increasingly popular over the past decade. The practice is more frequently used with pediatric patients, but can also be employed with adults. The focus of occupational therapy for ADHD is to improve school and work performance by emphasizing self-management techniques.

  1. Sensory Integration

    • Sensory integration therapy provides the patient with regulated stimulation of the five senses. Its intention is to assist the patient in effectively organizing and interpreting sensory information.

    Self-Regulation Programs

    • Self-regulation programs are designed to teach ADHD patients how to regulate their alertness and focus to more effectively concentrate on tasks. One of the most popular of these programs is ALERT, which is aimed at both children and adults (see Resources).

    Sensory Circuits and Diets

    • This intervention involves the careful management of sensory input (sensory diet) and regulation of alertness levels (sensory circuit) to regain focus after breaks (for example, after lunch) and maintain concentration throughout the workday.

    Sports

    • ADHD patients are encouraged to participate in physical activity, in particular organized sports. This allows a diversion of hyperactive energy into a socially appropriate and beneficial activity.

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