Research on brain training for ADHD is limited, and few programs have been approved by the FDA. However, studies have found that it may improve some symptoms of ADHD.
Brain training is the idea that you can alter your brain through a variety of repetitive and frequent exercises. This can involve tools, including:
- phone apps
- computer programs
- physical therapy
- occupational therapy
- neurofeedback
- mental exercises, such as sudoku
These tools are designed to support:
- attention
- visual processing
- problem-solving
- concentration
- impulse control
- decision making
Those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be able to improve symptoms through brain training, but it’s still best to support with other treatments.
“Brain training programs work to harness neuroplasticity,” says Cara Koscinski, a doctor of occupational therapy. “This means our brains can form new connections over time.”
“Brain training is a nonpharmaceutical intervention that uses technology tools to help people with ADHD improve executive functioning,” explains counselor Joshua McKivigan.
Executive functioning is a skill set that includes:
- paying attention
- remembering information
- multitasking
- making decisions
McKivigan says that effective brain training includes pre- and post-testing to monitor a user’s progress.
“There is data that suggests decreases in ADHD symptoms do occur over time,” says McKivigan. “However, I don’t see this as a substitute for working with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or a mental health therapist.”
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Though it had no effect on hyperactivity or teacher ratings of symptoms, the researchers noted that training IC alone may have the potential to positively impact inattentive symptoms of ADHD.
Another small 2020 study involving 32 male students found that combined neurofeedback and game-based cognitive therapy were able to improve all symptoms except attention deficit and auditory response control.
The most effective ADHD brain exercises are those administered by medical professionals.
These include:
- eye exercises
- interactive metronome (IM) exercises
- neurofeedback exercises
Koscinski employs interactive metronome exercises as an occupational therapist. These exercises may help improve visual attention.
“Interactive metronome pairs physical exercise with timing. Many professionals use it with high success to boost functional outcomes,” she says.
Although some programs have listed measures of success, none of the following programs have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat ADHD, and only some are supported by research.
Many programs require major time and financial commitments. Before beginning any new program, talk with a medical professional.
Brain Balance
Providing programs for children and adults, Brain Balance combines nutrition and 1-hour daily cognitive training activities to help participants improve various behavioral aspects.
The program provides in-person training as well as virtual options.
According to a 2020 study, parental responses showed that 75% of children showed up to 25% improvement, and 25% of children demonstrated 60% to 85.7% improvement after 5 to 6 months in the Brain Balance program.
Improvements were reported in the following areas:
- panic or anxiety attacks
- worrying
- depression-like symptoms
- mood
- obsessive thoughts or behaviors
- social withdrawal
- pessimism
- emotional regulation
- emotional self-awareness
- emotional expressiveness
Keep in mind that the primary study author worked for Brain Balance Achievement Centers at the time of publication, and the survey data came from the centers themselves rather than an outside researcher.
BrainTrain
BrainTrain develops brain training software for medical and educational professionals. The program can be used with children and adults.
A 2018 study showed that BrainTrain users improved in skills specific to the tasks, though the researchers cite concerns about the long-term transferability of the skills and study quality.
Brain training programs have become the basis for several apps and computer programs that are easily accessible on devices like tablets or mobile phones. Some involve extra equipment, while others only require a smartphone.
While most aren’t clinically proven to help with ADHD, they may still offer some benefits.
Play Attention
Play Attention aims to improve focus and concentration by using a computer-based program combined with an armband. The armband measures the user’s attentiveness.
Instead of moving forward in the game with a controller, the user continues on the video journey by paying attention. The program is geared toward older kids and adults.
Koscinski uses this program in her practice.
Mightier
Mightier is an app-based heart rate biofeedback game designed to help kids “navigate big emotions.”
According to the company website, children using Mightier technology and therapy had major reductions in symptoms compared to a control, though the studies themselves aren’t listed. These symptoms included:
- aggression
- oppositional behavior
- parental stress
Additional trials are currently in process.
EndeavorRx
EndeavorRx is an
According to a 2021 study on EndeavorRx, researchers noted an “overall lack of support for this approach to treatment.”
Importantly, they noted that there are “multiple psychosocial and pharmacological treatment options with much more evidence supporting their effectiveness than any commercially available cognitive training program.”
Still, the app is considered a medical device and can be prescribed by a medical professional.
Apps might not offer much benefit for brain training, but it doesn’t hurt to try them in addition to a treatment plan.
There are also a number of apps on the market that can help people with ADHD (and everyone) stay organized, productive, and on-task.
Some brain training apps include:
Koscinski uses Visual Attention Therapy and Memory Games in her work.
A note on the effectiveness of brain training
It’s important to remember the science around the effects of brain training for ADHD symptoms is new.
“The evidence is still emerging about significant long-term gains in cognitive function. Additionally, and of critical importance, is the ability to transfer the skills from programs to real life,” Koscinski says.
Koscinski cautions that each app should have evidence to support its claims. Further, brain training may not work for every person with ADHD.
“I’ve yet to encounter an intervention that works for everyone,” McKivigan says. “If it isn’t a successful intervention for some people, it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t work at all. It just means that it doesn’t work for everyone.”
Research on brain training is still emerging, and findings thus far about the effectiveness of reducing ADHD symptoms have been mixed.
These programs are not one-size-fits-all. Experiment and speak with your healthcare team to find what works best for you.
It is also important to note that these programs are not a replacement for treatment prescribed by your doctor. You should always check with a doctor or other specialist before starting any new programs in addition to behavioral or medication interventions.
Whitney Sandoval is a freelance writer living with her family in the Midwest. She writes about parenting, infertility, and pregnancy, with bylines in What To Expect, The Kitchn, and What’s Up Moms. Along with hiding from her family, Whitney’s hobbies include running, yoga, and drinking lattes.
