Typically, those with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) have problems with following through on instructions, paying attention to what they need to attend to, seem not to listen, are disorganized, have poor handwriting, miss details, have trouble starting tasks or with tasks that require planning or long-term effort, appear to be easily distracted, or forgetful. In addition, some people with ADD can be fidgety, verbally impulsive, unable to wait their turn, and act on impulse regardless of the consequences. But, remember -- not all people with ADD have all of these difficulties, nor all of the time.

ADD is not an illness and it is not a disorder in the usual sense. It is a collection of temperamental traits, and a style of thinking. The task of the individual who has these traits is to harness them and use them to their advantage. Harnessing requires learning how to learn efficiently and effectively.

How is biofeedback used to treat ADD?

Neurofeedback, or EEG biofeedback, helps you learn to self-regulate your brain waves to improve your concentration. With time, you can acquire the skill of producing brain wave patterns that are associated with focusing and concentrating.

Unlike stimulants, Neurofeedback training appears to have a direct long-term effect on increasing your ability to remain focused (decreased "slow wave" brain activity) and spend extended periods of time concentrating in a problem-solving manner (increased "fast wave" brain activity).

There is a significant decrease in the phenomenon of tuning out (associated with Alpha and/or Theta brain waves) while trying to concentrate. In addition, Neurofeedback appears to have a similar effect to stimulants in that it increases your "natural guards" to inhibit or avoid impulsive actions.

People already taking medication can continue while training, however, most find that they can gradually reduce the dosage as self-regulation is mastered.

Biofeedback equipment used for ADD attention training

Training systems such as the Brainmaster or ABT Bioscan use visual feedback and auditory feedback, making you aware of which brain rhythms are present. Displays can be of many types, and computer displays are capable of producing a wide variety of useful displays. These can include "thermometers", video games, and other graphic displays.

The Brainmaster can be set up to train to reinforce, or to reduce, any brain waves or combination of brain waves.

The ABT Bioscan reads brain waves in the theta, mid alpha and SMR/low beta brain wave bands to help reduce the symptoms of insomnia, anxiety and attention deficit disorders and for improving meditation.

The ABT Bioscan is compact and portable. It may be used at home in bed, during reading, listening to a lecture or anywhere you have problems concentrating.