Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. The standard treatments include stimulant medications and behavior therapy. However, these don't work for all patients. New research explores using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to supplement standard ADHD care.
This article reviews a recent study testing EMDR for treating ADHD in a 12-year-old boy. Key findings indicate that EMDR improved his executive functioning and emotional regulation. This suggests EMDR could help ADHD children struggling with trauma history. More studies are still necessary, but it shows early promise as an additional treatment option.
EMDR Overview
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of psychotherapy developed specifically to treat trauma and PTSD, along with other psychological issues.
How EMDR Therapy Works:
- Uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or tones) to process traumatic memories
- The goal is to desensitize distressing memories and reprocess them adaptively
- 8-phase approach guided by a trained EMDR therapist
EMDR helps the brain make new connections and integrate memories in healthier ways. Studies show it reduces PTSD and trauma symptoms for many patients.
Why Might EMDR Help Treat ADHD?
There are several reasons why EMDR therapy shows early promise as a supplemental treatment for ADHD, especially in patients with adverse childhood experiences.
Shared Brain Areas Impacted:
- Both ADHD and PTSD involve executive dysfunction in the prefrontal cortex
- This leads to emotional dysregulation and inhibition problems
- EMDR enhances prefrontal cortex activity
Trauma Exacerbates ADHD Symptoms:
- Stress and trauma can worsen inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity
- Fight-or-flight state becomes a chronic baseline for some
- EMDR helps process memories fueling trauma reactions
Integrative Approach:
- EMDR combines aspects of psychotherapies like CBT and dialectical behavior therapy already used for ADHD
- A multi-pronged approach fits ADHD's complex synergistic impairments
While more research is still needed, these factors indicate that EMDR aligns well with areas requiring attention in ADHD care. The therapy shows theoretical promise both on its own and when combined with standard ADHD treatments.
A recent case study put this theoretical promise of using EMDR for ADHD to the test.
About the ADHD-EMDR Study
An interesting 2021 case study explored using EMDR as a treatment approach for ADHD. Published in the Journal of Personalized Medicine, this small pilot study aimed to assess feasibility and begin gathering initial outcomes data.
The participant was a 12-year-old Brazilian boy adopted at age 9. He was formally diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) using DSM-5 criteria. The child also had symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a significant history of early childhood trauma and adverse experiences.
Study Methods:
- Used standard EMDR protocol to target traumatic memories
- He focused on memory of his mother's death when he was 3 years old
- Had 2 EMDR sessions for 65 minutes each
- Evaluated with neuropsychological tests before and after
Study Findings
The researchers found:
- Improved executive functioning after EMDR treatment
- Improved performance on tests of memory, reasoning, and attention
- Decrease in emotional dysregulation symptoms
- Suggests EMDR helped reprocess traumatic memories adaptively
While only a small case study, this research demonstrates the potential benefits of using EMDR with ADHD children who have a trauma history. It may improve cognitive symptoms and emotional/behavioral control.
Limitations and Next Steps for ADHD-EMDR Researchers
While these initial findings show promise, the pilot study has significant limitations to consider before drawing conclusions or changing clinical practice.
Limitations of this early ADHD-EMDR research include:
- Very small sample (n=1)
- Cannot determine cause and effect
- Specific to one patient's profile
Recommended next steps for researchers on EMDR treatment for attention deficit disorder involve:
- Larger randomized controlled trials
- Confirm whether findings generalize
- Compare outcomes to standard treatments
- Examine brain activity changes with EMDR
More rigorous study is required before adopting EMDR as best practice for addressing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, these limitations provide a blueprint for vital research to conduct to move this innovative application of EMDR forward.
Takeaway for Readers
This small but innovative case study suggests EMDR therapy may benefit some ADHD patients - especially those with adverse childhood experiences.
It likely will not replace standard treatments like stimulants and behavior therapy. However, EMDR could provide added value in managing trauma-related impairments in executive and emotional functioning.
If you or your child has treatment-resistant ADHD, consider discussing EMDR with your mental health provider. More research is underway to clarify if results transfer to larger groups. For now, view it as an adjunct option to supplement primary ADHD care.
Common Questions About EMDR and ADHD
Can EMDR help treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
Early research suggests EMDR may benefit some ADHD patients - especially those with a history of adverse childhood experiences or trauma. The therapy may help reprocess memories and improve executive functioning related to emotion/behavior control.
Is EMDR used as a first-line ADHD treatment?
No, at this time, EMDR is considered an adjunct treatment. Standard care, like stimulant medications and therapy, are still the primary treatments for ADHD. Be sure you are also getting a professional diagnoses from a psychological assessment. However, EMDR may provide added benefits in some instances.
What are the benefits of using EMDR for ADHD?
Potential perks of adding EMDR for ADHD patients with trauma history include:
- Improved thinking skills, memory, and attention span.
- Enhanced ability to manage emotions and behavior.
- Decreased trauma-related symptoms.
How effective is EMDR for treating ADHD?
Early research on using EMDR with ADHD shows promising results in case studies. However, large-scale studies are still needed to confirm efficacy and compare outcomes to standard ADHD treatments. Effectiveness likely depends on the individual case.
