1386 Mindfulness meditation in ADHD

Abstract

<h3>Aims</h3> ADHD is highly heterogeneous with a multi-factorial aetiology, diverse neurocognitive impairments and co-occurring problems, as well as positive traits such as creativity. Self-control deficits in everyday life, including problems controlling impulses, switching attention, regulating emotional responses, initiating and organizing tasks, impact functioning of children with ADHD. In children self-control ratings are an important predictor for health, wealth, academic, occupational and crime outcomes years later, therefore, improving self-control is important. Evidence-based interventions for children with ADHD include medication and behavioural treatments, although both have limitations and medication may have side effects. Other interventions merit further exploration and the aim of this literature review was to look at mindfulness meditation as an intervention. <h3>Methods</h3> A literature search was conducted to look at the benefits of mindfulness meditation in ADHD <h3>Results</h3> Mindfulness training is an intervention based on eastern meditation techniques. It helps increase awareness of the present moment, enhances non-judgmental observation,strengthens ability to control attention, retain focus and reduce distraction, and increases awareness of emotions making impulsive actions less likely. There is a growing body of research on the effectiveness of mindfulness for children, adolescents and adults with various psychopathologies, including anxiety and depression and sleep disorders. In adults, numerous studies have found that mindfulness interventions have a significant positive effect on ADHD symptoms, with improvements in executive functioning and self-reported emotion dysregulation. Various studies in children and adolescents also report positive outcomes. Zylowksa (2008) found that self-reported ADHD symptoms and performance on several neurocognitive attention tasks improved after mindfulness training in a mixed group of children and adults. A study by van der Oord (2012) involving 22 children showed a significant reduction in ADHD behaviour following an eight week mindfulness programme, delivered in a group format, and a reduction in parental stress. However teacher ratings showed non-significant effects. A further study with an eight week mindfulness programme (van de Weijer-Bergsma 2012) involving 10 adolescents and their parents found a self-reported reduction in attention and behaviour problems, with improved executive functioning. There were also improvements in performance in attention tests, and a reduction in parental stress in fathers but not mothers. In a study involving 25 children, aged 7-11 years, Santonastaso (2020) found that mindfulness orientated meditation had positive effects on neuropsychological measures and ADHD symptoms, the authors suggesting it as a promising tool for ameliorating cognitive and clinical manifestations of ADHD. <h3>Conclusion</h3> As mindfulness-based training has become more popular, there is a need to examine whether it is beneficial for individuals with ADHD. Although most studies have small sample sizes, there is an emerging body of evidence that mindfulness training is an effective approach in children and adolescents with ADHD, maintenance strategies being required for long term effectiveness. Studies point toward improved planning, cognitive flexibility and better interactions within families. However, there are no published studies comparing the efficacy of mindfulness interventions with standard pharmacological treatment. The outcome of such studies in future will be of interest.