The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a brainwave-based assessment tool that will be used to help diagnose ADHD, called the neuropsychiatric EEG-based assessment aid system (NEBA). This noninvasive test utilizes electroencephalogram (EEG) technology to measure brainwaves; the ratio of theta to beta brainwaves is then calculated and used to aid in diagnosis.

FDA approval lends credibility to practitioners in the field of EEG biofeedback (neurofeedback) that have used the same ratio to guide diagnosis and treatment of ADHD for years. Researchers have reported higher theta levels and decreased beta activity in the brains of children and adolescents with ADHD as early as the 1930s.

ADHD treatment for children and adolescents can be an enjoyable experience because video game-like feedback is frequently used. As a result of neurofeedback, theta/beta ratios can be normalized, leading to changes in cognition and behavior. Students that have undergone neurofeedback for ADHD are often able to focus better for longer periods of time, complete school assignments faster, improve test grades and exhibit more appropriate behavior in the classroom and in their home environment.

Although medication for ADHD can be effective for some, there are many short and long-term side effects to the body and mind. Neurofeedback treatment is a promising option for parents seeking a more natural method of treating ADHD symptoms.

EEG brainwave assessment and neurofeedback are available at Better Brain Services, LLC, in Gulf Breeze. For more information, visit BetterBrainServices.com.