Brain Stimulation Therapy for ADHD

ADHD occurs, at least in part, because of abnormalities in the functioning of certain brain processes. For instance, individuals with ADHD have alterations in the functioning of a chemical messenger called dopamine within the brain. Because brain abnormalities are implicated in ADHD, brain stimulation techniques may be beneficial for treating it.

The Role of Dopamine in ADHD

ADHD and dopamine go hand-in-hand, and it’s important to understand this before learning about ADHD stimulation techniques for the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, within the brain. It’s involved in the brain’s reward system, and certain dopamine receptors are specifically involved in attention and impulse control. ^[3]

In individuals with ADHD, dopamine dysfunction occurs in several brain regions, resulting in cognitive impairments. Problems with dopamine function in the brain can cause cognitive deficits and reduce motivation to complete mentally challenging tasks. People with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine in their brains, resulting in characteristic ADHD symptoms, such as issues with focusing and learning difficulties. ^[1]

ADHD dopamine deficiency can be the result of genetic abnormalities. Research has indicated that alterations in gene codes that determine the density of dopamine transporters can lead to ADHD. Certain medications developed to treat ADHD, like methylphenidate, work by increasing dopamine levels. ^[1]

The Role of Brain Stimulation in ADHD

People with ADHD often engage in dopamine-seeking behavior, meaning they act in a way that increases stimulation in the brain. This process aligns with optimal stimulation theory, which says that people want to maintain an ideal level of arousal. In those with ADHD, hyperactive behaviors can help with achieving the right level of arousal.

Researchers have found that children with ADHD are more active when they’re in environments that provide low levels of stimulation. This supports the argument that hyperactivity is a stimulation-seeking behavior. ^[4]

The Reward System in ADHD Brains

In people with ADHD, the brain’s reward system typically works differently compared to those without the psychiatric disorder. For instance, the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine both play a role in motivation and reward processing. With impairments in these systems, people with ADHD are less sensitive to delayed rewards. This means they prefer instant gratification over working toward a reward they’ll receive in the future, such as receiving incentives through achieving targets at work or school. ^[5]

This preference for immediate rewards is linked to impulsive behaviors and challenges in long-term planning. This occurs because the reduced response to delayed rewards makes it very difficult for a person with ADHD to prioritize future goals over the pleasure that comes from fulfilling present desires. Consequently, those with ADHD have difficulty with tasks that require sustained effort, which interferes with effective planning and working toward long-term goals. ^[6]

Self-Regulation Challenges in ADHD

Because of dopamine deficiencies, people with ADHD often struggle with self-regulation. This deficiency impairs their ability to sustain attention, delay gratification, and manage impulses, leading to difficulties in everyday tasks. For instance, dopamine deficiencies can lead to problems with procrastination, particularly if the task at hand is not especially enjoyable or stimulating for the person with ADHD. If a task isn’t interesting, it can be difficult for someone with ADHD to find the motivation to do it. ^[7]

Over time, difficulties with self-regulation and motivation can become a vicious cycle. The person will find themselves caught in a pattern of avoiding mentally challenging tasks, and then feeling frustrated when they complete it at the last minute, but not to the best of their abilities.

Ultimately, this can lead to reduced self-esteem, which creates a cycle in which procrastination continues. Because of low self-esteem, a person who lives with ADHD may believe they cannot be successful, so they will continue to procrastinate. ^[8]

Strategies for Enhancing Brain Stimulation

Fortunately, there are ways to stimulate the brain and overcome ADHD dopamine deficiency. Based on research, the strategies below can be helpful:

• Physical Activity: Exercise is a stimulating activity, and regular exercise can bring significant benefits to those with ADHD. A recent research report evaluating multiple previous studies found that exercise interventions were effective for managing clinical symptoms of ADHD. Not only can exercise improve attention problems, but it’s also beneficial for reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity. ^[9]
• Gamification: Adding gamification elements to boring routine tasks can be an effective way to stimulate the brain for task completion. For instance, some learning apps and study tools use gamification features, such as rewards, competition, and points, which can be motivating for a person with ADHD. ^[10]
• Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness interventions like yoga, meditation, and body scanning have significant benefits for ADHD symptoms. The body of research on mindfulness for ADHD has found that this intervention improves attention as well as hyperactivity and impulsivity. Because mindfulness interventions focus on developing self-awareness and attending to the present, they can be useful for regulating ADHD symptoms. ^[11]

ADHD Treatment That Incorporates Dopamine Regulation

In addition to the ADHD brain stimulation strategies above, many people with ADHD benefit from professional treatment. The treatment strategies below can target the dopamine deficiencies seen in ADHD:

• Medication: Medication is typically the first line of treatment for ADHD symptoms, likely because it’s the best method for targeting dopamine deficits. Stimulant medications are the most common type of medication used to treat ADHD symptoms. Medications in this category include methylphenidate, as well as amphetamines like Adderall and Vyvanse. These medications block dopamine’s reuptake, making more of it available in the brain. While stimulants are very effective for many people with ADHD, some people do not respond to these medications. Others find adverse effects like weight loss and insomnia to be intolerable. In these cases, non-stimulants like guanfacine can be beneficial. ^[12]
• Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), may offer additional benefits to those with ADHD. In CBT sessions, people can learn to reframe negative or distorted thinking patterns and develop skills for overcoming impulsivity and better emotional regulation. ^[13]
• Lifestyle Changes: Finally, a professional can help you create lifestyle changes to improve brain health and manage ADHD symptoms. Healthy lifestyle habits, like having a consistent sleep schedule and getting regular exercise, can be essential for reducing ADHD symptoms. It’s also important to follow a nutritious diet, emphasizing whole foods, to promote brain health. ^[14][15]

If you’re struggling with ADHD symptoms, it’s important to seek professional treatment. A mental health clinician, such as a psychologist or clinical social worker, can collaborate with you to develop an individualized treatment plan customized to meet your unique needs.