Retraining Your Brain: How Meta-cognitive Therapy May Help Adult ADHD

by A. Grano on May 25th, 2010 at 7:00 am

A new study sheds light on the old saying, ‘we are our own worst enemy’ with regards to how our thoughts impact our performance and overall well-being.

A ‘psychological intervention’ known as meta-cognitive therapy showed highly effective results on a group of adults at the ADHD Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. Participants showed improved self-management skills as well as increased attention, two common symptoms of ADHD.

Initially developed to address anxiety and depression, the meta-cognitive approach works by helping patients regain control over detrimental thought processes by recognizing patterns of worry, fixation and rumination, or other interfering thoughts.

Using the same cognitive-behavioral principles and methods, the ADHD meta-cognitive study targeted the focus and concentration needs of the participants, helping them develop new ways of controlling attention and modifying negative thoughts that can lead to productivity pitfalls.

Applying the Findings

While it may be a while before the exact methods and strategies used in the study reach the general public, identifying our own personal trigger thoughts that sidetrack effective time management, organization, and planning may be a good start. Evaluating current strategies is also helpful for establishing more successful patterns.

We can also ensure that we are properly fueling our brains and supporting healthy cognition by maintaining a holistic lifestyle, including a nutritious diet, adequate sleep and exercise, and effective stress management.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies can help maintain harmony, health, and systemic balance in the brain and nervous system to further complement efforts. Asian Ginseng, Gotu cola, and Rosemary are known for having positive effects on cognitive functioning.

Research shows that both ADD and ADHD are considered the same condition. Although the term ADD is still used by the public to identify a subset of ADHD, ADHD is the proper medical terminology for people with attention disorders whether they display signs of hyperactivity or not. In our posts when we use the term ADHD, we are also referring to ADD and vice versa.

Brain Tonic^™ is a homeopathic remedy that relieves forgetfulness and mental fatigue, and increases alertness.