In the United States, an estimated 5% of children have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to the American Psychiatric Association. At San Diego Neurofeedback in La Mesa, California, neurofeedback therapist and educational psychologist Linda Nerenberg, MS, LEP, BCN, provides successful treatment methods for men, women, and children dealing with ADHD. Linda knows that every individual is unique and deserves the highest caliber of highly personalized mental health care and medical support. From neurofeedback to other effective coping strategies and tools, Linda is here to help.

ADHD Q & A

What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) impacts focus, self-control, and other important life skills. This brain disorder is characterized by a continuous pattern of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention that gets in the way of normal functioning and daily life.

ADHD is more prevalent in children and teens, but it can occur at any age.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

Many people with ADHD act impulsive and are often fidgety and distracted easily. Some of the symptoms of ADHD are:

  • Daydreaming
  • Forgetfulness
  • Excessive talking
  • Fidgeting or having a hard time sitting still

Most people with ADHD have difficulty with certain functions and skills, such as:

  • Managing emotions
  • Flexible thinking
  • Memory
  • Planning, preparation, and organization

You might also have trouble paying attention to details, following instructions or conversations, and finishing tasks.

What causes ADHD?

The cause of ADHD isn’t definitive, but experts have associated the condition with differences in brain anatomy.

Various factors could contribute to the development of ADHD, such as:

  • Genetics
  • Alcohol use, cigarette smoking, or drug use while pregnant
  • Low birth weight
  • Brain injuries
  • Premature delivery

Exposure to environmental toxins at a young age or in utero, such as high lead levels, might also be involved in the onset of ADHD.

What are the treatments for ADHD?

After an evaluation, Linda creates an individualized treatment plan to determine the best way to manage you or your child’s ADHD. If you have ADHD, it’s beneficial to manage distractions, get organized, and create a routine. Give yourself a positive environment that encourages a happy and healthy mind.

Linda might suggest:

  • Talk therapy to help develop coping mechanisms and strategies
  • Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and outdoor activities
  • Stress management and mindfulness
  • Education and training about ADHD
  • Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback

With neurofeedback, Linda places electrodes on your scalp and electrically monitors your brain waves while you play a video game on a computer screen. Your brain waves are reflected on the screen and when your brain approaches a more comfortable state, you’re rewarded with a positive response in the video game.

This gradually helps you focus, exercise, and train your brain to gain better control over your thoughts and brain functions.

Linda can not only help with ADHD/ADD, but she also has extensive experience treating children with various learning disabilities, and learning problems in school. For compassionate care for ADHD and other learning disabilities, please click here to book online.