ARCHIVE
High-Functioning Autism: Strengths and Challenges Explained
Learn the strengths and challenges of high-functioning autism, why it’s misunderstood, and how brain-based support can help people thrive.
Table of Contents
What Is High-Functioning Autism?
High-functioning autism is often misunderstood. People who fit this description may be praised for their intelligence, strong verbal skills, or intense focus, while their very real social, communication, and sensory challenges are quietly minimized. Others are judged as awkward, unsocial, or difficult, without recognition of the remarkable strengths that frequently accompany this neurotype.
The truth is that these strengths and challenges are not separate. They are different expressions of the same underlying brain differences.
Even the term “high-functioning autism” can be misleading. While still commonly used, it is not a formal diagnosis and can unintentionally invalidate the daily struggles many autistic individuals experience. It may also reinforce masking, the conscious or unconscious effort to appear neurotypical in order to fit in, often at significant emotional cost.
Today, autism is diagnosed as autism spectrum disorder, reflecting a wide continuum of abilities and support needs. Individuals previously described as having high-functioning autism are now typically diagnosed with Level 1 autism spectrum disorder, indicating a need for support with social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviors, even when outward functioning appears strong.
For the purposes of this blog, the terms high-functioning autism (HFA) and Level 1 autism spectrum disorder (ASD) will be used interchangeably, as both remain widely recognized.
It is important to understand that functioning well on the surface does not mean life is effortless underneath. Many individuals with HFA perform well academically, maintain employment, or live independently, yet still face ongoing challenges with flexibility, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and social connection.
Because these struggles are often less visible, diagnosis is frequently delayed until later in childhood, adolescence, or even adulthood, research has found.
True understanding requires moving beyond labels and stereotypes. When families, educators, and clinicians recognize both the strengths and the challenges of autism at this level, they can provide brain-based support that helps individuals with Level 1 ASD not just cope but truly thrive.
Many individuals with high-functioning autism perform well academically, maintain employment, or live independently, yet still face ongoing challenges with flexibility, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and social connection
4 Common Challenges in High-Functioning Autism
While people with HFA often possess significant cognitive abilities, they still experience core autism-related challenges. These difficulties are neurological, not behavioral choices. Understanding them is critical to getting effective support.
1. Deficits with HFA Social Interactions Difficulties
For many people with high-functioning autism, social interaction can feel like navigating a world without an instruction manual. Studies show that adults with autism show unique brain activity and behaviors when making social decisions, while still sharing core social-mapping brain systems with others. These challenges highlight the differences and strengths in how social information guides choices, including:
- Difficulty with eye contact
Eye contact may feel uncomfortable, distracting, or overwhelming rather than connective with the people around them, even loved ones. - Challenges with reciprocal conversation
Conversations may lean toward monologues, limited back-and-forth, or difficulty gauging when to speak or stop talking. - Trouble interpreting nonverbal cues
Facial expressions, tone of voice, sarcasm, or body language may be misread or missed entirely. - Difficulty forming or maintaining friendships
Social rules that seem intuitive to others often require conscious effort, leading to fatigue or social withdrawal.
A 2022 study shows these challenges stem from differences in social cognition networks within the brain, particularly regions involved in emotional processing and theory of mind.
2. Dislike of Change and Need for Predictability
Change can be deeply unsettling for people who may struggle with Level 1 ASD. It’s not due to stubbornness or defiance; instead, it’s most likely because predictability provides neurological safety.
Strong Preference for Routine and Predictability
Routines help regulate sensory input, reduce anxiety, and conserve mental energy. Research shows that consistent structure supports emotional regulation in people with autism who struggle with neurodevelopmental delays.
Stress Response to Unexpected Disruptions
3. Restricted or Intense Areas of Interest
A hallmark of HFA is intense focus on specific subjects. While this can become a strength, challenges can arise when:
- Interests dominate the conversation or time
- Flexibility across tasks becomes limited
- Transitions away from preferred topics cause distress
Neuroimaging studies suggest this intensity is linked to reward circuitry activation and deep-focus attention systems. Without guidance, these interests may narrow opportunities but, with personalized support, they often become pathways to mastery.
4. Sensory Sensitivities in High-Functioning Autism
Many people living with Level 1 ASD experience heightened sensitivity to sensory input, including:
- Loud or unexpected noises
- Bright or flickering lights
- Strong smells or tastes
- Certain textures or physical touch
Sensory overload can activate stress responses, leading to avoidance, irritability, or shutdown. Research links these sensitivities to atypical sensory integration and cortical excitability patterns in the brain.
Distinctive Strengths in High-Functioning Autism
Too often, discussions of autism stop at the challenges. The truth is that people with HFA have strengths born out of their characteristic differences. They often emerge because of them.
1. Strong Ability to Concentrate with Deep Focus
When engaged, people with Level 1 ASD can often sustain attention for extended periods of time. This kind of deep focus enables:
- Advanced skill development
- Technical mastery
- Long-term project completion
In supportive environments, studies show the concentration they exhibit rivals, and often exceeds, neurotypical performance. This has been seen particularly well in fields like technology, research, design, and the arts.
2. Strong Memory, Intelligence, and Visual Thinking
Many people with HFA demonstrate exceptional traits that are often revered in professional or specific social settings, which may include:
- Above-average memory recall
- Strong vocabulary and factual retention
- Visual-spatial or pattern-based thinking
Research highlights enhanced perceptual processing and memory networks in autistic brains, contributing to creative problem-solving and innovative thinking.
3. Honesty, Authenticity, and Acceptance
Another remarkable trait in those with HFA is that they tend to be refreshingly direct. They tend to value truth, fairness, and transparency over social performance. This can look like sharing in clear communication styles, having a lack of manipulation or hidden agendas, and genuine acceptance of differences in other people.
In relationships and within workplaces, this kind of integrity builds trust and connection with others, especially when paired with mutual understanding and compassion. This is a major trait to appreciate when trying to understand and support someone with Level 1 ASD.
4. Reliability and Conscientiousness
The same traits that drive routine and focus often translate into exceptional dependability. Many people with Level 1 ASD have been known to have similar behavioral consistencies, such as:
- Reliability
- Detail-oriented
- Greater work ethic
- More trustworthiness
- Lower levels of absenteeism
- Punctual and consistent work
- Advantage in long-term memory
- Higher degrees of accuracy on visual tasks
- Ability to perform repetitive jobs in isolation
- Deeply committed to their responsibilities
Employment studies increasingly highlight these qualities as major assets when workplaces provide appropriate accommodations. These extraordinary strengths aren’t discussed enough but are beginning to be understood and valued in the workplace.
Blog: What Happens When People with Autism Go Untreated?
It’s important to note that recent research notes distinct differences between autistic women and men in the workplace. Autistic women often face more intense social/communication stress, masking autism for acceptance, and gendered appearance expectations, which leads to increased anxiety.
Autistic men tend to struggle more visibly with executive function issues, specific sensory overload, and disclosing their disability. Both genders need flexible, structured environments. Women are often under-recognized or diagnosed later due to masking.
It’s important to acknowledge that there are key differences among autistic men and women as well for a more comprehensive workplace roadmap. A 2023 study shows that autistic men and women can experience sensory under-responsiveness differently. These differences may shape how each navigates attention, stress, and daily demands
Brain Health and Co-Occurring Conditions in High-Functioning Autism
High-functioning autism rarely exists in isolation. While autism itself reflects a unique pattern of brain wiring, many people also experience co-occurring conditions that influence mood, attention, energy, and daily functioning. These overlapping challenges are not signs of “more severe” autism. They are reflections of how interconnected brain systems communicate, regulate stress, and process information. These co-occurring conditions may include, but are not limited to:
- ADHD
- Anxiety disorders
- Mood challenges
- Obsessive-compulsive tendencies
- Inflammatory or metabolic imbalances
Research shows that these mental health disorders can amplify social, sensory, or executive-function challenges if left unrecognized. Because these symptoms often overlap or mask one another, they are sometimes misattributed to personality traits or “just part of autism,” delaying effective support and better understanding.
Viewing Level 1 ASD through a brain-health framework helps clarify what aspects of brain function are related to autism and what may stem from other, treatable co-occurring mental health disorders.
A 2025 study in Human Brain Mapping shows that overlapping brain-network differences, particularly in attention, emotion regulation, and executive functioning, can intensify daily challenges, especially if left unaddressed.
This is where a brain-health assessment becomes so critical. Functional brain imaging, such as brain SPECT scans, can identify patterns related to overactivity, underactivity, or dysregulation across specific brain regions. These insights allow clinicians like those at Amen Clinics to move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches and develop targeted, individualized treatment plans.
Early identification and brain-informed intervention are associated with improved emotional regulation, social functioning, and long-term life outcomes.
This can be especially true when strengths are understood and valued while more challenging aspects of Level 1 ASD can be successfully addressed to optimize well-being.
Thriving With High-Functioning Autism: A Brain-Health Perspective
High-functioning autism is not a limitation, but a different neurological operating system. When challenges are misunderstood or ignored, autistic individuals can struggle unnecessarily. But, when strengths are recognized and brain health is supported, those same traits can become powerful advantages that help them succeed farther than they realized was possible.
At Amen Clinics, a whole-brain approach helps individuals with high-functioning autism better understand how their brain works so they can reduce friction, enhance resilience, and build lives aligned with their natural strengths.
FAQ About High-Functioning Autism
1. What challenges do people with high-functioning autism commonly face?
Typical challenges include HFA social interaction difficulties and missed cues, need for routine and dislike of change, intense or restricted interests, and sensory sensitivities.
2. What are some unique strengths of individuals with high-functioning autism?
Strengths often include deep focus on interests, strong memory and visual thinking skills, honesty and acceptance of others, and high reliability or conscientiousness.
3. What does “high-functioning autism” mean compared to other forms of autism?
The term refers informally to those on the autism spectrum without major intellectual impairment who often live independently or attend mainstream school or work. Typically aligned with a Level 1 autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, these individuals still struggle and need support.
4. How can recognizing strengths help someone with high-functioning autism?
Leveraging strengths builds confidence, meaningful work, and self-esteem while targeted support addresses challenges like social skills or sensory regulation.
5. What role does brain-health assessment play in high-functioning autism?
Brain-health evaluation helps identify activity patterns and co-occurring conditions, allowing personalized strategies that enhance strengths and reduce challenges.
High-functioning autism and other mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we provide personalized, science-backed treatment plans designed to target the root causes of your symptoms. Our 360-approach includes brain SPECT imaging, clinical evaluations, innovative therapeutic techniques, medications (when necessary), and holistic lifestyle recommendations to promote the health of your brain, body, and mind. Speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Amen Clinics
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
References
- Grosvenor LP, Croen LA, Lynch FL, Marafino BJ, Maye M, Penfold RB, Simon GE, Ames JL. Autism Diagnosis Among US Children and Adults, 2011-2022. JAMA Netw Open. 2024 Oct 1;7(10):e2442218. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.42218. PMID: 39476234; PMCID: PMC11525601.
- Banker, S. M., Schafer, M., Barkley, S., Trayvick, J., Chen, A., Peters, A. W., Thinakaran, A. A., Gu, X., Foss-Feig, J. H., & Schiller, D. (2025). Neural tracking of social navigation in autism spectrum disorder. Biological Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2025.08.018
- Nagib W, Wilton R. Examining the gender role in workplace experiences among employed adults with autism: Evidence from an online community. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation. 2021;55(1):27-42. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.3233/JVR-211144
- Krendl AC, Betzel RF. Social cognitive network neuroscience. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci. 2022 May 5;17(5):510-529. doi: 10.1093/scan/nsac020. PMID: 35352125; PMCID: PMC9071476.
- Hatherly, K., Stienwandt, S., Salisbury, M. R., Roos, L. E., & Fisher, P. A. (2023). Routines as a Protective Factor for Emerging Mental Health and Behavioral Problems in Children with Neurodevelopmental Delays. Advances in neurodevelopmental disorders, 7(1), 35–45. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41252-022-00260-y
- Dell’Osso, L., Massoni, L., Battaglini, S., De Felice, C., Nardi, B., Amatori, G., Cremone, I. M., & Carpita, B. (2023). Emotional dysregulation as a part of the autism spectrum continuum: a literature review from late childhood to adulthood. Frontiers in psychiatry, 14, 1234518. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1234518
- Matyjek, M., Bayer, M., & Dziobek, I. (2023). Reward responsiveness in autism and autistic traits – Evidence from neuronal, autonomic, and behavioural levels. NeuroImage: Clinical, 38, 103442. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nicl.2023.103442
- Patil, O., & Kaple, M. (2023). Sensory Processing Differences in Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Narrative Review of Underlying Mechanisms and Sensory-Based Interventions. Cureus, 15(10), e48020. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.48020
- Buckley, E., Sideropoulos, V., Pellicano, E., & Remington, A. (2024). Higher levels of neurodivergent traits associated with lower levels of self-efficacy and wellbeing for performing arts students. Neurodiversity, 2. https://doi.org/10.1177/27546330241245354 (Original work published 2024)
- Brown Nicholls, L. A., & Stewart, M. E. (2023). Autistic traits are associated with enhanced working memory capacity for abstract visual stimuli. Acta Psychologica, 236, 103905. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.103905
- Eisner, D. “Autistic Employees: Workplace Barriers and Solutions for Positive Employment Outcomes ”. The Journal of Healthcare Ethics & Administration Vol. 11, no. 4 (Fall 2025): 59-82, https://doi.org/10.22461/jhea.9.7171
- Kiep, M., Spek, A., Ceulemans, E. et al. Sensory Processing and Executive Functioning in Autistic Adults. J Autism Dev Disord 55, 2075–2084 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-023-06008-4
- Waters, D. K., Baranek, G. T., Glenn, E., Riehl, H., DeMoss, L., Dawson, G., & Carpenter, K. L. H. (2025). Unique and shared influences of anxiety and ADHD on the behavioral profile of autism in early childhood. Frontiers in child and adolescent psychiatry, 4, 1585507. https://doi.org/10.3389/frcha.2025.1585507
- Morawetz, C., Hajrić, M., Rammensee, R. A., Berboth, S., & Basten, U. (2025). Wired to Regulate: Brain Connectivity Predicts Emotion Regulation Capacity and Tendency. Human brain mapping, 46(16), e70400. https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.70400
Related Articles
Boost Focus with 10 ADHD Study Tips
Discover 10 simple, brain-based tips from Amen Clinics to help people with ADHD improve concentration, study habits, and learning success.
Have trouble focusing? Can’t keep your mind from wandering? Get easily distracted? These are common symptoms of ADHD. And if you have this mental health condition, you may find it challenging to learn and study effectively.
Figuring out how to study with ADHD can feel like chasing butterflies in a hurricane. It’s equally frustrating and exhausting as it is aimless and unproductive. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Based on over 30 years of clinical practice and tens of thousands of brain scans on people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention deficit disorder (ADD), Amen Clinics has developed strategies that help you boost focus and study more effectively.
In this blog, you’ll find answers to the most common questions people with ADHD ask about improving concentration and the ability to study. Whether you’re a student, professional, or lifelong learner, these simple shifts can transform your ability to focus, retain information, and actually enjoy learning again.
Based on over 30 years of clinical practice and nearly 300,000 brain scans on people with ADHD and other mental health issues, Amen Clinics has developed strategies that help you boost focus and study more effectively.
1. HOW CAN I CREATE A DISTRACTION-FREE STUDY ENVIRONMENT?
Your environment plays an important role in your ability to concentrate. Research shows that people with ADHD have brains that are more sensitive to sensory input, making the right setup essential for studying success.
What environment cues support focus?
Visual imagery, color choices, mental clutter can overstimulate the ADHD brain. Choose calming colors like soft blues, muted greens, or neutral tones to help quiet mental noise. Organize your space so everything has a place that feels balanced—think minimal but not sterile.
Some research suggests that studying outdoors or by a window with natural sunlight may reduce inattention while improving mood and alertness. When your brain knows what to expect visually, it has more energy to focus internally.
2. SHOULD I SIT AT THE FRONT OF THE ROOM TO PAY ATTENTION?
Essentially, yes, you should. Here’s why: proximity equals presence. Sitting front and center has been shown to minimize your field of distractions and maximize your chances of staying locked in.
How does proximity to the speaker affect my brain activity?
When you’re physically closer to the action, your brain’s attentional networks light up more efficiently. You hear and see better, plus, your brain doesn’t have to filter out as many competing sounds or movements.
It’s a simple shift with a powerful payoff, especially for lectures, Zoom meetings, or group discussions in school or at work.
3. IS MINIMIZING BACKGROUND NOISE REALLY IMPORTANT?
Absolutely! ADHD brains tend to hyper-process stimuli, which means even low background chatter can pull you off task. Silence is golden and strategic in this case.
How much noise impairs ADHD focus?
Research shows that even moderate noise (like a ticking clock or hallway footsteps) can disrupt working memory and task persistence in people with ADHD.
Noise-canceling headphones, white noise machines, or focus-enhancing soundtracks like binaural beats can help. Silence is ideal, but if that’s not possible, choose consistent, neutral sounds over unpredictable noise.
4. WHY SHOULD I TAKE BREAKS INSTEAD OF CRAMMING?
Your brain needs a bit of breathing room to reset and refocus. Cramming floods your prefrontal cortex, the part responsible for decision-making, organization, and concentration. These three functions are already challenged in ADHD brains, so give yourself space to reset.
What’s the optimal study-rest cycle?
Do about 15 to 20 minutes of focused work followed by a 5- to 10-minute break. After about four rounds, take a longer break of about 15 to 30 minutes.
Use your short breaks to stretch, hydrate, move, or look out the window. This will help your brain shift gears and reset for alertness.
5. HOW DOES PHYSICAL ACTIVITY HELP ME CONCENTRATE?
Movement is like a natural medicine for the ADHD brain. Exercise increases the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters that are typically low in people who are struggling with ADHD.
These neurotransmitters are involved in attention, motivation, and mood. Keeping them balanced is one of the key ways to boost focus and attention.
Related: 7 Natural ADHD Treatments You Can Start Today
What kind of activity works best?
Any form of aerobic activity can work. A brisk five-minute walk, a dance break, or a few jumping jacks can improve focus for up to an hour. Even a walk around the block before studying can prepare your brain for better retention. Findings in a 2021 study show that the benefits of regular exercise increase over time.
6. CAN CREATIVITY BOOST MY FOCUS AND LEARNING?
Yes, creativity can be a powerful reset button. Creative activities stimulate different brain regions, giving your executive function networks a well-deserved break.
Why intersperse creative hobbies during study?
Sketching, doodling, journaling, or playing music engages the brain’s default mode network, which allows ideas to settle and consolidate. These creative breaks recharge your mental battery so you return to study tasks with sharper focus and more stamina.
7. COULD SPACING STUDYING IMPROVE MY ATTENTION?
Yes! Cramming is like sprinting a marathon. You might finish, but you’ll forget most of it tomorrow. Instead, let your brain breathe and build lasting connections to retain the information, not just memorize it.
How to schedule study sessions over time?
Break down your learning into smaller chunks over multiple days. For example, study 30 minutes a day for a week instead of two hours in one sitting.
Spaced repetition improves long-term memory and reduces burnout. Use study apps or set simple reminders to review flashcards or notes over time without the anxiety of forgetting.
Podcast: Stop Believing These ADHD Myths: Get the Real Deal, with Dr. Steven Storage
8. DOES SLEEP AFFECT MY CONCENTRATION?
Yes. ADHD brains that are sleep-deprived struggle even more with attention, mood regulation, and impulse control.
That’s bad news for the estimated 25 to 50 percent of people with ADHD who experience sleep problems, according to research. And the nearly 70 percent of children with ADHD who don’t get enough sleep.
What’s the best nap or sleep habit for focus?
Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night and stick to a consistent bedtime. If you feel like you’re dragging midday, a 10–20 minute power nap can improve alertness without grogginess.
Poor sleep can exacerbate ADHD in children, so be intentional about making sleep a priority.
9. WHAT KIND OF SNACK HELPS MY BRAIN FOCUS?
Food is fuel, but not all fuel is created equal. The ADHD brain thrives on consistent, nutrient-dense meals that stabilize blood sugar and support neurotransmitter production.
Which foods support sustained attention?
You can start by filling your refrigerator and pantry with foods like the following:
- Go for high-protein snacks like turkey slices, hard-boiled eggs, or protein smoothies.
- Add in some brain-boosting fats like avocado or almonds.
- Choose low-glycemic carbs like berries or sweet potatoes.
- Steer clear of sugary snacks, food dyes, and processed foods to prevent spikes then crashes of your energy and focus.
You can create a brain-healthy nutrition plan that can help you get a boost when you’re learning how to study with ADHD.
Related: Foods That Help With ADHD
10. SHOULD I REWRITE MY NOTES TO STUDY BETTER?
Yes! Also, ditch the highlighters for better outcomes. Rewriting activates multiple senses, improves recall, and reinforces what you’ve learned more effectively than passive review.
How does rewriting enhance memory?
Research shows writing by hand strengthens neural encoding by engaging motor memory, visual processing, and language centers simultaneously. Try summarizing your notes in your own words after each study session. For added benefit, say them out loud for even deeper retention.
WHAT BRAIN-BASED ROUTINE CAN TIE ALL THESE ADHD STUDY TIPS TOGETHER?
Learning how to study with ADHD is about finding a rhythm that works for you outside of the typical rigid routines. A well-rounded study plan weaves together your environment, energy, and creativity in a way that feels sustainable.
What does an effective ADHD study schedule look like?
Here’s a sample study routine that you can tailor to your schedule.
| Time Block | Activity |
|---|---|
| 2:30 PM – 2:40 PM | 10‑minute walk to wake up your brain |
| 2:40 PM – 2:50 PM | Have a healthy snack and a glass of water |
| 2:50 PM – 3:00 PM | Set up a clutter‑free space, play calming music or silence |
| 3:00 PM – 3:20 PM | First study block |
| 3:20 PM – 3:30 PM | Quick break (dance, look out the window, go outside) |
| 3:30 PM – 3:50 PM | Second study block |
| 3:50 PM – 4:00 PM | Creative break (doodle, journal, play an instrument) |
| 4:00 PM – 4:20 PM | Third study block |
| 4:20 PM – 4:30 PM | 10‑minute walk |
| 4:30 PM – 4:50 PM | Review and rewrite notes (by hand, if possible) |
| 4:50 PM – 5:00 PM | Clean up space |
Adjust the timing to your own energy peaks and lows. Make sure to include physical activity, creative rest, healthy food and hydration, and active study techniques.
ADHD and other mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we provide personalized, science-backed treatment plans designed to target the root causes of your symptoms. Our 360-approach includes brain SPECT imaging, clinical evaluations, innovative therapeutic techniques, medications (when necessary), and holistic lifestyle recommendations to promote the health of your brain, body, and mind. Speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Amen Clinics
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
Ghanizadeh, Ahmad. “Sensory processing problems in children with ADHD, a systematic review.” Psychiatry investigation vol. 8,2 (2011): 89-94. doi:10.4306/pi.2011.8.2.89
Kuo, Frances E, and Andrea Faber Taylor. “A potential natural treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: evidence from a national study.” American journal of public health vol. 94,9 (2004): 1580-6. doi:10.2105/ajph.94.9.1580
Schramm M, et al. Electrophysiological evidence for increased auditory crossmodal activity in adult ADHD. Frontiers in Neuroscience. Volume 17 (2023) https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2023.1227767
Wajszilber, Dafna et al. “Sleep disorders in patients with ADHD: impact and management challenges.” Nature and science of sleep vol. 10 453-480. 14 Dec. 2018, doi:10.2147/NSS.S163074
Larssen I, et al. Sleep interventions for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A systematic literature review. Sleep Medicine. Volume 102, February 2023, Pages 64-75. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2022.12.021
Chan, Y. S., Jang, J. T., & Ho, C. S. (2022). Effects of physical exercise on children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Biomedical journal, 45(2), 265–270. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bj.2021.11.011
Girard-Joyal, O., & Gauthier, B. (2022). Creativity in the Predominantly Inattentive and Combined Presentations of ADHD in Adults. Journal of attention disorders, 26(9), 1187–1198. https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547211060547
Chillemi, K., & Frye, D. (2022, September 21). Preventing autistic burnout and ADHD burnout. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/functional-legacy-mindset/202209/preventing-autistic-burnout-and-adhd-burnout
Marano, G., Kotzalidis, G. D., Lisci, F. M., Anesini, M. B., Rossi, S., Barbonetti, S., Cangini, A., Ronsisvalle, A., Artuso, L., Falsini, C., Caso, R., Mandracchia, G., Brisi, C., Traversi, G., Mazza, O., Pola, R., Sani, G., Mercuri, E. M., Gaetani, E., & Mazza, M. (2025). The Neuroscience Behind Writing: Handwriting vs. Typing-Who Wins the Battle?. Life (Basel, Switzerland), 15(3), 345. https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030345
Neurofeedback for ADHD and Anxiety: A Natural Brain-Based Approach That Lasts
The benefits of neurofeedback for ADHD and anxiety includes improved focus, consistent self-regulation, and more.
Table of Contents
Neurofeedback for ADHD and Anxiety: A Drug-Free Approach
Struggling with focus, procrastination, or feeling overwhelmed in today’s world is not uncommon. However, if you—or your child or teen—is unable to focus, learn, or perform daily tasks due to ADHD or anxiety, you may need help.
While stimulant medications are the most common treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention deficit disorder (ADD), and anti-anxiety pills are often a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, they aren’t the only options. Many people are now turning to neurofeedback for ADHD and anxiety for a natural, brain-based approach that trains the brain to function better.
Studies have shown that neurofeedback can improve focus and emotional regulation, especially in kids and teens.
At Amen Clinics, we’ve seen amazing results in people of all ages who’ve used this technique to overcome restlessness, impulsive behaviors, and anxiety without relying on medication. Here’s a closer look at how neurofeedback works and why it can lead to lasting positive change.
Many families are now turning to neurofeedback for ADHD and anxiety for a natural, brain-based approach that trains the brain to function better.
JOEY AND MONICA’S STORY: REAL KIDS, REAL RESULTS
There is real-world proof that neurofeedback for ADHD works. Look at Joey, for example. At age 9, he was struggling with hyperactivity, impulsive behavior, and difficulty paying attention in class. After his doctor suggested stimulant medication, his mom made the decision to explore other options.
That’s when she decided to visit Amen Clinics and learned about neurofeedback therapy as a natural ADHD treatment for children and adults. After just a few weeks of sessions, Joey’s focus improved, and his restlessness calmed. Best of all, the changes stuck after he finished his sessions.
Then there’s 17-year-old Monica, who was dealing with anxiety, mood swings, and trouble in school. Traditional therapy helped a little, but not enough to be consistent. And when she was on medications, she tried didn’t feel right.
Once she visited Amen Clinics and started neurofeedback, everything began to shift. Within a month, she felt less anxious. After six months, Monica was more focused and emotionally balanced. Even her family noticed how much calmer and cooperative she had become.
Related: 10 Ways to Overcome Impulse Disorders
WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Think of neurofeedback as a workout for your brain. It’s a safe, non-invasive way to help the brain learn how to self-regulate better using real-time feedback.
During a session, your (or your child’s) brain waves are monitored using sensors placed on the scalp. When the brain is in a focused, calm state, you get a reward—like a sound, a graphic on the screen, or points in a game.
Most people wonder what to expect from neurofeedback and if it’ll be a fast or obvious result. The reality is that, over time, this “training” helps the brain recognize what calm and focus feel like and how to return to that state more easily on its own.
That’s the big difference. It doesn’t just temporarily treat symptoms. Studies show promising results in teaching the brain to function better long-term.
Press Play for Natural Ways to Heal ADHD
In this video, Amen Clinics psychiatrist and ADHD specialist Dr. Steven Storage reveals non-drug ADHD treatments that work.
Click below to tune in:
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE NEUROFEEDBACK OVER MEDICATION
ADHD medications can be helpful for some people, but they’re not for everyone. Some individuals experience side effects like appetite changes, mood swings, or trouble sleeping. Others don’t respond well to meds at all.
That’s why many parents are seeking natural ADHD treatments for kids that don’t involve altering brain chemistry with drugs. Neurofeedback therapy offers a way to teach the brain to function better—without any unwanted side effects.
Related: 7 Natural ADHD Treatments You Can Start Today
BECOMING THE BOSS OF YOUR BRAIN
One of the best parts of neurofeedback? It helps anxious people feel empowered and confident. Instead of feeling like they’re “broken,” they learn that they can change their brain and calm nervousness.
For kids like Monica, who struggled with anxiety, that sense of control can be life changing. Neurofeedback becomes a non-medication treatment for anxiety to overcome fearfulness increase a sense of peace.
Kill the ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts)
People who have ADHD or anxiety are often filled with ANTs—automatic negative thoughts—that pop up and create stress or self-doubt. At Amen Clinics, we also teach people how to identify and stop those ANTs.
When used alongside neurofeedback as a natural ADHD treatment for kids or adults, this strategy helps people take charge of their thoughts and their brain health. Think of it as a way to build lasting mental strength.
Related: Negative Thinking: Do You Have an ANT Infestation in Your Head?
Conclusion: A Calmer, More Focused Future Is Possible
If you or your child is struggling with ADHD or anxiety, know that lasting change is possible—without relying solely on medication. Neurofeedback therapy offers a safe, non-invasive way to retrain the brain for better focus, emotional regulation, and overall mental wellness.
Just look at Joey, who went from restless and distracted to focused and calm after just a few weeks of neurofeedback sessions. Or Monica, whose anxiety and mood swings improved so much that even her family noticed a transformation. Their stories aren’t rare—at Amen Clinics, we’ve seen thousands of individuals benefit from this science-backed, brain-based therapy.
Whether you’re exploring options for your child, your teen, or yourself, neurofeedback could be the missing piece in your mental health journey. With the right tools and support, you can build a brain that works better—and a life that feels better.
FAQ
Yes! At Amen Clinics, we’ve seen amazing results using neurofeedback for ADHD and anxiety. People become calmer, more focused, and more in control. It’s also recognized by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a top-level treatment for ADHD.
Unlike medication, which often only manages symptoms short-term, neurofeedback helps train the brain to function better long-term. It’s a great option for people looking for drug-free solutions or for kids or adults who don’t respond well to medications.
You (or your child) will play fun, brain-based games while wearing small sensors that read brain activity. When their brain is in a focused or calm state, you get instant feedback. Over time, this helps the brain repeat those healthy patterns more often.
ADHD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we provide personalized, science-backed treatment plans designed to target the root causes of your symptoms. Our 360-approach includes brain SPECT imaging, clinical evaluations, innovative therapeutic techniques, medications (when necessary), and holistic lifestyle recommendations to promote the health of your brain, body, and mind. Speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Amen Clinics
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
Nguyen GH, Oh S, Schneider C, Teoh JY, Engstrom M, Santana-Gonzalez C, Porter D, Quevedo K. Neurofeedback and Affect Regulation Circuitry in Depressed and Healthy Adolescents. Biology (Basel). 2023 Nov 3;12(11):1399. doi: 10.3390/biology12111399. PMID: 37997998; PMCID: PMC10669603.
Van Doren J, Arns M, Heinrich H, Vollebregt MA, Strehl U, K Loo S. Sustained effects of neurofeedback in ADHD: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2019 Mar;28(3):293-305. doi: 10.1007/s00787-018-1121-4. Epub 2018 Feb 14. PMID: 29445867; PMCID: PMC6404655.
Trambaiolli, L. R., Kohl, S. H., Linden, D. E. J., & Mehler, D. M. A. (2021). Neurofeedback training in major depressive disorder: A systematic review of clinical efficacy, study quality and reporting practices. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 125, 33–56. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.02.015
Gray SN. An Overview of the Use of Neurofeedback Biofeedback for the Treatment of Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury in Military and Civilian Populations. Med Acupunct. 2017 Aug 1;29(4):215-219. doi: 10.1089/acu.2017.1220. PMID: 28874922; PMCID: PMC5580369.
Chen C, Xiao X, Belkacem AN, Lu L, Wang X, Yi W, Li P, Wang C, Sha S, Zhao X, Ming D. Efficacy Evaluation of Neurofeedback-Based Anxiety Relief. Front Neurosci. 2021 Oct 28;15:758068. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2021.758068. PMID: 34776855; PMCID: PMC8581142.
Cueli, M., Rodríguez, C., Cabaleiro, P., García, T., & González-Castro, P. (2019). Differential Efficacy of Neurofeedback in Children with ADHD Presentations. Journal of clinical medicine, 8(2), 204. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm8020204
Patil, A. U., Madathil, D., Fan, Y. T., Tzeng, O. J. L., Huang, C. M., & Huang, H. W. (2022). Neurofeedback for the Education of Children with ADHD and Specific Learning Disorders: A Review. Brain sciences, 12(9), 1238. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12091238
Quiz: Is Your Child’s Anger Out of Control?
Take our child anger quiz to find out if your child’s temper is typical—or a red flag for a deeper issue that needs attention.
Are there moments when your child yells at you in public, hits their sibling, or throws things across the room in frustration? You’re not alone, and it doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent. Studies show that it’s normal for children experience outbursts from time to time, which is part of their developmental journey.
That said, a child’s anger can sometimes become so intense that it begins to affect their daily life, relationships, and school performance. When aggressive behavior in kids becomes frequent and disruptive, it may signal something deeper than just a phase you can simply “wait out” as a parent.
Some outbursts may be early signs of behavioral problems that call for intervention and tailored child anger management strategies.
In this blog, we’ll explore potential underlying neurological or mental health conditions and offer practical approaches to help your child manage big emotions effectively. Plus, you’ll find a quiz to help you gauge if your child’s anger is a problem.
Anger in kids isn’t always just a phase. Sometimes, it’s a sign of something deeper—like ADHD, anxiety, or even a brain issue. Take the quiz to find out what your child’s temper might really mean.
ANGER IN A CHILD’S BRAIN
Sometimes, child anger issues are not just about defiance or frustration. Intense or hard-to-manage anger could be rooted in the way a child’s brain functions. These brain differences may be linked to mental health conditions like:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Temporal lobe abnormalities
Consider the story of Denise, a 13-year-old girl who once pulled a knife on her mother during a temper outburst. Upon realizing that this was beyond the usual teenage behavior, her parents decided to take her to Amen Clinics for mental health assessments for children to understand what could be causing her distress.
A brain-imaging scan using a technology called SPECT showed that Denise had abnormal activity in her left temporal lobe.
The temporal lobes of the brain are involved in mood stability, memory, and learning. Abnormal activity in this region is associated with aggression, dark or violent thoughts, and emotional instability. It’s also seen in reading difficulties.
Denise always had school problems, especially when reading, and that caused intense frustration. She would blame herself, thinking, “If I just try harder, I won’t be so stupid.”
But trying harder wasn’t the real issue. Her brain simply required support. Through a tailored treatment plan and educational therapy, her child anger problems subsided.
Her academic and emotional well-being greatly improved. Since then, her mother no longer had to worry about her daughter threatening her with a knife.
If your kid’s anger is out of control, it’s important to get a complete evaluation to see if it may be due to child behavioral disorders, a traumatic brain injury (even a mild one), or a temporal lobe problem.
With proper treatment of the underlying issue, your child can stop feeling so angry and start feeling better fast. This will help them perform better at school, make friends more easily, and get along better with the whole family.
Press Play to See How a Young Boy Stopped Being So Mad All the Time
In this video, watch as a caring mother tried desperately to find a solution to her son’s explosive temper tantrums without success. Then see what turned it all around.
Click below to tune in:
UNDERSTANDING THE ROOTS OF YOUR CHILD’S ANGER
Anger is a natural human emotion that both adults and children experience. But when it becomes frequent, intense, and disruptive to your child’s daily life, you need to look beneath the surface.
When you understand what causes anger in children, you become more empowered to respond with empathy and compassion rather than frustration.
Here are some of the common triggers for anger in children:
1. Unmet Expectations
Do you always find yourself asking,” Why is my child so angry?” especially whenever they explode over issues that appear small? Research shows that exhaustion, overstimulation, hunger, or feeling ignored are needs that, when unmet, can escalate into outbursts.
2. Communication Challenges
Kids with explosive tempers are usually not able to express what they are feeling, more so when embarrassment, fear, or jealousy are at play. Being unable to find the right words or feeling misunderstood can make your child’s frustration build up so quickly that it results in yelling, defiance or aggression.
3. Environmental Stressors
Signs of anger issues in children can also emerge as a result of them being in an environment that feels unstable or overwhelming. Events like moving to another home, starting a new school, the arrival of a new sibling, or parental conflict can disrupt their sense of stability and safety.
Such stressors can spark insecurity and confusion, making the child easily irritable.
4. Developmental Stages
Research shows that some of the stages in child development are more emotionally intense compared to others. For instance, during the “terrible twos,” your toddler may want to do things by themselves, but they are yet to learn the skills to manage frustration.
Likewise, adolescents have social pressure and identity to deal with, which can make them more sensitive and reactive.
Both stages are characterized by a strong desire for autonomy, which may lead to frustration, anger, and power struggles, especially when they feel restricted or misunderstood.
5. Underlying Mental Health Conditions
In some children, chronic anger may be the result of deeper issues. Mental health issues like anxiety, ADHD, sensory processing difficulties, and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) can alter how a child processes stimuli and regulates their emotions.
In such cases, anger may be a sign that a neuropsychological issue needs attention. If a child’s temper is leading to behavioral or school problems, it’s a sign there may be an underlying mental health problem.
Related: A Parent’s Guide to Children’s Mental Health
STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS AND MITIGATE ANGER
Understanding how to deal with an angry child is an important step towards helping them through difficult emotions. So here are ways in which you can empower your child:
1. Encourage open communication.
Reassure your child that it’s OK to talk to you about how they feel at any time, even if they are angry. Frustrations in a child begin to ease when they feel heard and understood.
You can achieve that by using open-ended questions, for example, “Can you help me understand what happened?” and “What do you need right now to feel better?”
2. Teach simple coping mechanisms.
You can gently guide your child on how to manage emotions like anger by introducing coping tools that are simple and age appropriate. Help them regain control using techniques like:
- Taking a deep breath
- Slowly counting up to 10
- Using phrases like “I need a break” or “I’m upset”
3. Establish consistent routines.
Studies show that children thrive in routines. Knowing what to expect can make your child feel safer.
You can lower your child’s anxiety and reduce their anger flare-ups by establishing regular mealtimes and bedtimes. Also, when change is unavoidable, try notifying them in advance.
4. Model appropriate behavior.
Your child will mirror how you handle stress in their presence. If you respond with self-control and calmness, they will start doing the same over time.
Try naming your emotions, too. For example, “I’m feeling so disappointed right now, so I’m going to take a deep breath.”
5. Know when to seek professional support.
If your child’s anger is frequent, feels overwhelming, or affects their relationships in school or at home, it’s time to reach out for professional support.
Functional brain imaging, such as SPECT, and child mental health assessments can be very instrumental in identifying underlying issues. Such evaluations can guide mental health experts in creating tailored treatment plans that work long-term.
CHILD ANGER QUIZ
Take this quiz to see if your child’s anger is out of control.
-
Is your child getting into trouble at school or at risk of being suspended or expelled due to anger, aggression, or fighting?
-
Is your child a danger to him/herself or to others?
-
Does your child get excluded from playdates and parties with other children because of problem behavior?
-
Do your child’s angry outbursts disrupt your home life and cause strife in the family?
-
Is your child too old to be having temper tantrums and meltdowns, but still having them?
-
Does your child feel guilty and frustrated because they can’t control their anger?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s likely that your child would benefit from an evaluation. This doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent, and you definitely aren’t alone.
In fact, anger issues are one of the most common reasons why parents take their children to see a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Anger issues, aggressive behavior, and other mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we provide personalized, science-backed treatment plans designed to target the root causes of your symptoms. Our 360-approach includes brain SPECT imaging, clinical evaluations, innovative therapeutic techniques, medications (when necessary), and holistic lifestyle recommendations to promote the health of your brain, body, and mind. Speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Amen Clinics
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
National Center for Health Statistics. (2019). Health, United States, 2018 – Mental health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544286/
Rao, V., Rosenberg, P., Bertrand, M., Salehinia, S., Spiro, J., Vaishnavi, S., Rastogi, P., Noll, K., Schretlen, D. J., Brandt, J., & others. (2009). Aggression after traumatic brain injury: Prevalence and correlates. The Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, 21(4), 420–429. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2918269/
Kaźmierczak, I., Zajenkowska, A., Rajchert, J., Jakubowska, A., & Abramiuk-Szyszko, A. (2023). The Role of Anger Expression in Unmet Expectations and Depressive Symptoms. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(15), 1–20. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20155900
Sukhodolsky, D. G., Smith, S. D., McCauley, S. A., Ibrahim, K., & Piasecka, J. B. (2016). Behavioral interventions for anger, irritability, and aggression in children and adolescents. Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, 26(1), 58–64. https://doi.org/10.1089/cap.2015.0120
Selman, S. B., & Dilworth‐Bart, J. E. (2024). Routines and child development: A systematic review. Journal of Family Theory & Review, 16(2), 272–328. https://doi.org/10.1111/jftr.12549
Performance Anxiety: 5 Proven Ways to Overcome It
Discover 5 science-backed methods to overcome performance anxiety. Learn effective techniques to boost confidence and reduce stress naturally.
It’s normal to feel a few butterflies before a big moment. But when your heart starts pounding like a drum before public speaking, your hands go clammy before a friendly pickleball match, or your mind goes completely blank before a test—you may be dealing with performance anxiety.
Also known as stage fright, competitive anxiety, or “choking,” this intense fear of being judged or failing in high-stakes situations can affect anyone—students, athletes, executives, musicians, even romantic partners. And it’s far more common than most people realize.
In fact, up to 60% of individuals experience performance anxiety at some point in their lives, according to research in Frontiers in Psychology.
The good news? You don’t have to keep living at the mercy of your nerves. With the right strategies, you can train your brain and body to respond with calm instead of panic when you’re under pressure.
In this blog, we’ll explore science-backed stress management strategies to reduce performance anxiety—so you can step into the spotlight, the arena, or the boardroom with confidence and clarity.
Also known as stage fright, competitive anxiety, or “choking,” performance anxiety involves an intense fear of being judged or failing in high-stakes situations. And it can affect anyone.
UNDERSTANDING PERFORMANCE ANXIETY
Performance anxiety is not considered a diagnosable mental health condition. Rather it falls under the umbrella of anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety or generalized anxiety disorder.
It typically occurs in situations where you’re expected to perform, be evaluated, or deliver results under pressure. It can show up in a wide variety of settings:
- Professional environments
- Academic challenges
- Athletic competitions
- Social interactions
- Dating
While a little nervous energy can motivate you, excessive anxiety can interfere with your ability to think clearly, communicate confidently, and perform at your best. You may experience common symptoms like:
- A racing heart
- Heavy breathing/hyperventilating
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Tight muscles or tension headaches
- Negative self-talk
- Sweating
- Freezing, or your mind going blank
In some instances, it can lead to a full-blown panic attack. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re in the company of some high-performing athletes, executives, and actors. The key to overcoming this is learning tools to manage those reactions and retrain your mind and body.
STRATEGY #1: PRACTICE RELAXATION TECHNIQUES TO OVERCOME PERFORMANCE ANXIETY
One of the most effective ways to overcome performance anxiety is through intentional relaxation techniques that calm your nervous system. These methods help shift your body out of fight-or-flight mode and into a calmer, more focused state mentally, emotionally, and physically.
How Relaxation Reduces Physical Symptoms of Performance Anxiety
When you’re anxious, your body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. This ramps up those physical symptoms and can make your thoughts race faster than you can think through them.
Relaxation techniques have been shown to reduce anxiety naturally by soothing your parasympathetic nervous system, which results in slower breathing, lower heart rate, and easing muscle tension.
Simple Relaxation Exercises to Incorporate into Your Routine
Here are a few simple stress management strategies you can try:
- Deep breathing: Inhale through your nose and visualize filling your belly for four seconds, hold for four, exhale through your mouth for six. Repeat for two to five minutes.
- Box breathing: Inhale for four, hold for four, exhale for four, hold for four. Repeat for at least 5 minutes to reset your nervous system.
- Progressive muscle relaxation: First, find a comfortable place to lie down and breathe. Then, tense and release each muscle group, starting at your toes and moving upward.
The Long-Term Benefits of Relaxation for Anxiety Relief
Practicing relaxation regularly trains your body to respond more calmly in high-pressure situations wherever you are. Over time, these techniques can reduce anxiety naturally and become your go-to tools for navigating stress in healthier (and easier) ways.
Strategy #2: Build Confidence with Visualization Techniques
Another powerful strategy to overcome performance anxiety is through visualization—mentally rehearsing success. Visualization is one of the top boost confidence techniques used by athletes, public speakers, and performers because it works.
The Power of Visualization in Overcoming Anxiety
Visualization helps you tap into your brain’s ability to simulate experiences. When you vividly imagine yourself performing well, your brain fires off the same neural pathways as it would if you were actually doing it.
By making the event or goal feel familiar and less threatening, you end up reducing performance anxiety and achieving more than you thought you would.
Step-by-Step Guide to Effective Visualization for Anxiety Reduction
- Find a quiet place and close your eyes.
- Imagine the scenario where you feel performance anxiety—a meeting, stage, sports tournament, or test, for example.
- Visualize yourself feeling calm, confident, and in control.
- Include all five senses. What do you hear, see, feel, touch, or smell?
- Repeat daily leading up to the event.
Why Visualization Works: Understanding the Mind-Body Connection
Visualization strengthens the mind-body connection by reinforcing positive expectations. When you “see” yourself succeeding, your body follows suit in action, which reduces performance anxiety and boosts self-trust over time.
You can also try guided imagery to help you relax and fall asleep when needed. Basically, this technique involves envisioning yourself in an imaginary environment—a tropical beach, a flower-filled meadow, or a cozy fireplace, for example—and taking in the sights, scents, and sounds. After visiting this imaginary place, you feel more relaxed.
STRATEGY #3: USE COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT) TO REFRAME NEGATIVE THOUGHTS
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a psychological approach that helps you identify and challenge the unhelpful thoughts driving your anxiety. By shifting your mindset, CBT allows you to reduce anxiety naturally and respond to stress with a plan.
Related: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: What Is It and Who Can Benefit?
How CBT Helps You Change Your Perception of Performance Anxiety
One of the best stress management strategies CBT offers is cognitive restructuring. Instead of thinking…
“I’m going to fail.”
…CBT can help you reframe your thoughts to…
“I’ve prepared for this, and I can handle it.”
This mental shift allows you to take back the mental control you need to reduce panic and restore balance in your life.
H3. CBT Techniques You Can Use to Manage Performance Anxiety
Try these CBT-inspired tools to help manage your performance anxiety:
- Thought records: Write down your anxious thoughts and find evidence that supports or disproves them.
- Exposure therapy: Test your fears by gradually taking small steps toward the thing you’re avoiding.
- Affirmation replacement: Replace anxious self-talk with confidence-boosting affirmations.
Related: Gain Control Over Negative Self-Talk
Finding Professional Support for CBT
If you’re struggling to cope with persistent performance anxiety, working with a mental health professional can help you apply CBT principles in a more personalized way. Therapy offers a safe space to explore deeper fears and reduce anxiety naturally over time.
STRATEGY #4: ADOPT MINDFULNESS PRACTICES FOR BETTER FOCUS AND CALM
Mindfulness—the practice of being present without judgment—is one of the most reliable stress management strategies for reducing anxiety naturally. You can learn to stay focused during high-stakes moments by taking a moment to recenter yourself.
The Role of Mindfulness in Managing Anxiety
Mindfulness interrupts that spiral of anxious thoughts by grounding you in the present. This helps reduce anxiety naturally by shifting your attention away from what could go wrong and toward what is happening right now.
Easy Mindfulness Techniques to Practice Before a Performance
These can boost confidence techniques that help you center yourself before stressful events. Choose one or more to use when you need them:
- 5-4-3-2-1 grounding: Name five things you see, four you can touch, three you hear, two you smell, and one you taste.
- Mindful walking or stretching: Move your body slowly while paying attention to each movement.
- Body scan meditation: Bring awareness to each part of your body from head to toe.
How Mindfulness Can Improve Long-Term Stress Management
Consistent mindfulness practice improves emotional dysregulation, sharpens focus, and builds stress resilience. It makes this one of the most sustainable stress management strategies for managing performance anxiety long-term.
STRATEGY #5: DEVELOP HEALTHY LIFESTYLE HABITS TO MANAGE STRESS AND ANXIETY
Your everyday habits—how you eat, sleep, and move—play a major role in how your body responds to stress. Healthy routines can help you stay grounded and reduce the intensity of performance anxiety.
Research shows that eating the wrong foods can trigger anxiety at the moments when you need to be at your best. For example, eating a high-fat diet, getting inadequate amounts of protein, and consuming excessive amounts of sugar and refined carbohydrates can negatively impact focus, energy, and memory—all things you need when it’s time to perform.
Press Play to Learn How Caffeine Affects Anxiety
If you struggle with performance anxiety, you may want to check your caffeine intake. Too much java may be giving you the jitters.
Click below to tune in.
How Regular Exercise Can Reduce Anxiety and Boost Confidence
Decades of research on physical activity shows that it boosts mood-enhancing brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. Regular exercise is a beneficial way to reduce anxiety naturally, improve sleep, and help you feel more capable and in control.
The Importance of Sleep and Nutrition in Anxiety Management
You may already know that a lack of sleep and poor nutrition spikes cortisol (stress) levels. But did you know that they can also make you more reactive to stress?
Prioritizing rest and eating balanced meals can help your brain and body perform optimally. Proper sleep and nutrition help calm your body’s nervous system, so you don’t get so fearful when you need to perform.
Creating a Healthy Routine to Support Stress Management
To recap, here are a few simple habits that enhance your daily stress management strategies to calm anxiety:
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
- Eat whole, nutrient-dense foods
- Move your body regularly
- Limit sugar and caffeine
- Stay hydrated
Fortunately, even these small changes can add up to greater emotional balance and resilience.
COMBINING TECHNIQUES FOR MAXIMUM CONFIDENCE AND PERFORMANCE
In most cases, no single method will solve performance anxiety overnight. The most effective approach is to combine multiple confidence-boosting techniques that work for your unique personality and lifestyle.
Building a Personalized Strategy to Overcome Performance Anxiety
To manage your performance anxiety, feel free to mix and match strategies that you’ll enjoy doing again and again:
- Use mindfulness to ground yourself
- Practice visualization before a big event
- Apply CBT when negative thoughts arise
- Relax your body through breathing
- Maintain a healthy, active, and purposeful lifestyle
Performance anxiety doesn’t have to control your life. Creating your own personalized toolkit will help you be better prepared to handle any high-pressure situation with clarity and confidence.
FAQ
Performance anxiety isn’t classified as a formal mental health disorder, but it falls under the broader category of anxiety-related issues. It’s closely related to social anxiety and can significantly impact quality of life if left unaddressed.
Yes. Performance anxiety isn’t limited to public speaking or performing on stage. It can show up during athletic competitions, academic testing, work presentations, romantic relationships, and even one-on-one conversations—any situation where you feel pressure to perform.
Try deep, slow breathing or box breathing to reset your nervous system. These techniques calm your body’s fight-or-flight response in minutes, helping you feel more grounded and in control when the pressure is on.
Amen Clinics
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
National Center for Health Statistics. (2019). Health, United States, 2018 – Mental health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544286/
Rao, V., Rosenberg, P., Bertrand, M., Salehinia, S., Spiro, J., Vaishnavi, S., Rastogi, P., Noll, K., Schretlen, D. J., Brandt, J., & others. (2009). Aggression after traumatic brain injury: Prevalence and correlates. The Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, 21(4), 420–429. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2918269/
Kaźmierczak, I., Zajenkowska, A., Rajchert, J., Jakubowska, A., & Abramiuk-Szyszko, A. (2023). The Role of Anger Expression in Unmet Expectations and Depressive Symptoms. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(15), 1–20. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20155900
Sukhodolsky, D. G., Smith, S. D., McCauley, S. A., Ibrahim, K., & Piasecka, J. B. (2016). Behavioral interventions for anger, irritability, and aggression in children and adolescents. Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, 26(1), 58–64. https://doi.org/10.1089/cap.2015.0120
Selman, S. B., & Dilworth‐Bart, J. E. (2024). Routines and child development: A systematic review. Journal of Family Theory & Review, 16(2), 272–328. https://doi.org/10.1111/jftr.12549
10 Things Parents Should NEVER Do
Based on Tens of Thousands of Patients at Amen Clinics, Our Child Psychiatrists Have Identified 10 Bad Parenting Habits You Should Avoid.
As parents, it’s common to focus on parenting strategies that will help you raise mentally strong kids, but you may be overlooking what NOT to do. These people are typically well-intentioned, but their parenting skills aren’t helping them get the results they desire.
Based on tens of thousands of patients at Amen Clinics, our child psychiatrists have seen parents who unknowingly engage in habits that are counterproductive. Here’s a look at 10 bad parenting habits you should avoid.
If you want to learn more about what too many parents are doing wrong, tune in to the Change Your Brain Every Day podcast, hosted by Dr. Daniel Amen and his wife Tana Amen. Their episode on parenting “don’ts” is available wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
10 BAD PARENTING HABITS
-
Ignore your child’s brain.
Your child’s brain controls everything they do—how they think, behave, and relate to others. When their brain works right, they work right, but when their brain is troubled, they are more likely to have trouble in their life. And if they have problems in their life, you have problems in yours.
Healthy brain function is critical for focus, mood stability, motivation, academic performance, and so much more. But most parents don’t think about the health of their child’s brain. This is a major mistake. If you want your child to be their best, you must teach them to love and care for their brain.
The brain SPECT imaging work at Amen Clinics shows that a child’s brain health is linked to emotional and behavioral issues. The SPECT scans below show:
- Healthy brain
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention deficit disorder (ADD
-
Rarely spend quality time with your child.
Healthy parent-child relationships require “special time” together. If you don’t spend time with them one-on-one, they are likely to develop resentment and rebel against you.
One of the most effective things you can do is spend at least 20 minutes of quality time each day with your child—listening and doing something they want to do (within reason).
Silence your phone so you can pay 100% attention to your child. Research has found that when parents are always distracted by their devices, it interferes with a child’s emotional intelligence development. A child may act out and behave poorly in an attempt to get your attention.
-
Be a poor listener.
When you are disagreeing with your child and they are talking, do you interrupt them? Are you focusing on understanding what they are saying, or are you thinking of how you are going to respond to them?
Being a bad listener sends the message that your child isn’t important enough to merit your attention. And this can have devastating effects on their self-esteem.
Learn active listening. Don’t judge or criticize what they are saying, rather repeat back what you hear. Ultimately, your child can solve a lot of their own problems.
-
Use name calling.
Never tell your child “You’re a spoiled brat” or say “You’re stupid” when they’ve made a mistake or done something wrong. This is not helpful for their development.
Children will internalize these negative names and begin to believe them, which can adversely affect their self-esteem.
-
Be overly permissive.
Letting your child do whatever they want may make them “happy” in the moment, but it can be detrimental in the long run. Multiple studies have demonstrated that the children who grow up to have the most mental health problems had permissive parents who never set appropriate boundaries.
Children need clear boundaries to help them understand what is and is not OK. Do this by being firm and kind. Develop a set of rules and stick by them.
-
Fail to supervise your child.
The brain’s frontal lobes—which are involved in planning, judgment, and impulse control—are not fully developed until about age 25. Therefore, you need to act as your child’s frontal lobes until theirs develop. Failing to do so increases the chances that your child will engage in risky behaviors that can have major consequences.
Healthy supervision means checking in on what your child is doing and with whom and helping them make good decisions. This doesn’t make you a helicopter parent—rather, it shows how much you care.
-
Be a lousy role model.
If your motto is “Do as I say, not as I do,” you’re setting yourself up for trouble. Being a poor role model means your child will likely pick up on that and follow your lead.
If you lie, cheat, are rude or disrespectful, eat an unhealthy diet, and never address your own health, your child is going to follow your example. So, model how you want your child to be.
-
Only notice what your child does wrong.
Noticing all the little mistakes your child makes infuses them with a negative mind-set and self-view. This can carry over into adulthood and hold them back from reaching their potential.
In addition, if the only time you notice them is when they are doing something wrong, you are teaching them that doing something bad is the best way to get any attention from you.
Instead, do whatever you can to catch them doing things right as often as possible. By doing that, you will reinforce their good behavior and good choices.
-
Ignore their mental health issues.
Mental health issues, such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), can have a devastating impact on your child’s life. On average, it takes 11 years from the time a child starts to develop mental health symptoms to when they are seen for their first psychiatric evaluation.
In the meantime, children with untreated mental health conditions can struggle to succeed in school, in their friendships, and in life. These types of problems can rob them of their mental strength, happiness, self-esteem, motivation, and focus. As their parent, pay attention and take them for an evaluation if you have any concerns.
-
Ignore your own mental health problems.
If you’re suffering from any mental health conditions, it can devastate your children. Remember the saying, “Put on your own oxygen mask first.” You need to take care of yourself and be the best version of you so you can also be the best parent to them.
If you have trouble with focus, anxiety issues, depression symptoms, or other mental health issues, seek help from a mental health professional.
LEARN BETTER PARENTING SKILLS
Discover more common parenting mistakes and helpful parenting strategies on Dr. Amen and Tana’s Change Your Brain Every Day podcast, available wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Reviewed by Amen Clinics Inc. Clinicians
We Are Here For You
Behavior problems, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other childhood mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Amen Clinics
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
Keator DB, et al. Adverse childhood experiences, brain function, and psychiatric diagnoses in a large adult clinical cohort. Frontiers in Psychiatry, Volume 15 (2024). https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1401745
Anda, Robert F et al. “The enduring effects of abuse and related adverse experiences in childhood. A convergence of evidence from neurobiology and epidemiology.” European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience vol. 256,3 (2006): 174-86. doi:10.1007/s00406-005-0624-4
Gu, Wenjie et al. “Impact of adverse childhood experiences on the symptom severity of different mental disorders: a cross-diagnostic study.” General psychiatry vol. 35,2 e100741. 22 Apr. 2022, doi:10.1136/gpsych-2021-100741
Related Posts
How Negative Thinking Literally Shrinks Your Brain
Facebook-f X-twitter Youtube TL;DRNegative thinking isn’t just a habit. New study shows it may be linked to changes in brain function. Strong negativity bias is associated
Mental Health and Post-Concussion Syndrome: Katie’s Story
Facebook-f X-twitter Youtube TL;DRKatie Jolly struggled with mental health challenges for most of her life, often feeling ashamed and without clear answers.Her breakthrough came after
10 Ways Brain SPECT Imaging Can Help Understand and Treat ADD/ADHD
Brain SPECT scans can help people understand why they are experiencing mental health issues. Plus, brain scans can aid mental health professionals in treating
Sally was 40 years old when she sought care at Amen Clinics for mental health issues. For years, she had been struggling with troublesome symptoms, including a short attention span, distractibility, disorganization, and restlessness.
These are all symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD). However, Sally didn’t think adults could have ADD/ADHD, so she wasn’t interested in hearing about treatment for this common condition.
This could have been the end of her journey, and she would have continued suffering from her symptoms. But a brain scan changed everything.
Scientists have long believed that atypical activity levels in the brain are tied to ADHD. Neuroimaging research published in 2024 confirms that abnormal brain function leads to the behavioral symptoms seen in ADHD.
In this blog, you’ll discover how brain SPECT scans can help people understand why they are experiencing mental health problems. Plus, you’ll learn how brain scans can aid mental health professionals in treating ADHD and other conditions.
CASE STUDY: SALLY GETS A BRAIN SCAN
Although Sally wasn’t interested in learning about adult ADHD treatment options, she was intrigued about seeing how her brain was functioning. That’s why she decided to get a SPECT scan.
Sally underwent two brain scans—one at rest and the other while she performed a concentration task. The results showed good overall brain activity when she was at rest.
When she tried to concentrate, however, she experienced a reduction in brain activity. This is the opposite of what occurs in a healthy brain. The decrease was especially pronounced in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), an area involved in attention and organization.
When Sally saw her scans, she burst into tears and asked, “You mean, it’s not all my fault?”
What the brain scans showed was that none of the symptoms she was experiencing were her fault. Her short attention span, disorganization, and distractibility weren’t due to a lack of willpower or a lack of effort. They were related to abnormal brain function.
Sally realized that having ADHD is like needing glasses. Are people who wear glasses stupid, lazy, or just not trying hard enough to see better? Of course not!
Similarly, people with ADHD aren’t stupid, lazy, or not trying hard enough. They just need help to increase activity in their prefrontal cortex, so they can focus better.
Sally did very well on an ADD/ADHD treatment plan that helped turn her life around. But if she had never seen her brain scan, she probably never would have gotten the help she needed.
MENTAL HEALTH IS BRAIN HEALTH
Did you know that psychiatry is the only medical field that doesn’t look at the organ it treats? This means that people like Sally often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years while their symptoms worsen.
Because mental health professionals don’t look at the brain, it means they have to rely on guesswork to diagnose and treat patients with symptoms of ADD/ADHD.
It doesn’t have to be this way. As in Sally’s case, brain scans can make a major difference.
What is SPECT? Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is a nuclear medicine imaging technique that measures blood flow and activity in the brain. It helps take the guesswork out of psychiatry.
10 WAYS SPECT BRAIN SCANS CAN HELP UNDERSTAND AND TREAT ADHD
Brain scans show how the brain functions.
While MRI and CT brain imaging studies show the structure of the brain, SPECT brain scans show how it functions. Basically, SPECT shows areas of the brain with:
- Healthy activity
- Activity that is too high
- Activity that is too low
In Sally’s case, it showed that activity was too low in the prefrontal cortex while she was concentrating. It can also reveal signs of head trauma, exposure to toxins, and drug and alcohol abuse—all of which can contribute to symptoms associated with ADD/ADHD.
Brain scans reveal the health of your brain.
The health of your brain plays a major role in your ability to focus, pay attention, and be organized. There is no way to know about the health of your brain unless you look at it.
One neuroimaging study in The Lancet Psychiatry involving brain scans from over 3,200 patients found differences in brain function in people with ADHD.
Brain scans offer a more accurate diagnosis.
Most psychiatric illnesses are diagnosed based on symptom clusters—the same way they have been diagnosed for over 100 years. SPECT brain imaging adds an objective, biological component to give doctors important additional information for a more accurate diagnosis.
Common symptoms of ADD/ADHD include:
- Short attention span
- Poor impulse control
- Organization problems
- Being easily distracted
- Procrastination
- Trouble with follow-through
Looking at the brain helps physicians know what is causing those symptoms. Research published in Radiology indicates that functional brain imaging can identify ADHD.
Brain imaging reveals there are 7 types of ADHD.
Brain imaging shows that ADD/ADHD is not a single or simple disorder. In fact, there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD. Each type needs distinctive treatment. Knowing your type, or your child’s type, is the key to getting the most effective treatment. The 7 types of ADD are:
- Classic ADD
- Inattentive ADD
- Overfocused ADD
- Temporal Lobe ADD
- Limbic ADD
- Ring of Fire ADD
- Anxious ADD
SPECT brain scans reduce shame and stigma.
Seeing the brain helps people with ADD/ADHD understand that their lack of impulse control, inattention, or disorganization aren’t signs of weakness or personal failure. Realizing that these symptoms are biological in nature can help people overcome feelings of guilt and shame.
Brain scans help break denial.
When people see their brain scan, they can no longer deny that they have ADD/ADHD. It helps them understand that their condition is real. This knowledge motivates them to take action to treat it.
Seeing your brain scan makes you want a better brain.
When people see their SPECT scans compared to healthy SPECT scans, they tend to develop brain envy. That’s what happened to Sally. Wanting a better brain motivated her to start taking better care of her brain, which helped minimize her symptoms.
Brain imaging helps to get the most effective treatment.
With a comprehensive evaluation that includes brain imaging, there is no need for guesswork. People with ADD/ADHD can get a more effective treatment plan that is personalized for their individual needs.
Sally’s treatment plan included nutritional interventions, an exercise plan, a sleep program, targeted supplements, and medication.
Brain scans encourage compliance.
After seeing her brain, Sally was more encouraged to follow her treatment plan, which helped decrease her symptoms of ADD/ADHD.
SPECT scans offer hope.
Seeing before-and-after scans of patients who have improved their brain health and overcome ADD/ADHD offers hope to people who are struggling with symptoms that are holding them back.
FAQs ABOUT GETTING HELP FOR ADHD
To help you understand more about ADD/ADHD, here are some answers to common questions.
Who can diagnose and treat ADHD?
Healthcare providers who are qualified to give ADHD screening tests and to make an ADHD diagnosis include:
- Psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals
- Pediatricians, internists, family practice physicians, and primary care physicians
- Therapists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, social workers, and other licensed healthcare professionals
Most providers can treat ADHD with behavioral therapy or lifestyle modifications. However, the only ones who are qualified to prescribe medications, such as stimulants, are psychiatrists and other physicians.
Who can perform a brain SPECT scan?
The professionals at Amen Clinics have built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans related to behavior—over 250,000 brain scans and growing—making it the best in the world. Over the past 30-plus years, Amen Clinics has performed SPECT scans on patients ranging from 9 months of age to 105 years old from more than 155 countries.
This brain-based process produces better-than-average results. Based on outcome studies, 85% of patients report improved quality of life after being treated at Amen Clinics.
Where can I get tested for ADHD near me?
You can get tested for ADHD locally by visiting any of the healthcare providers listed above. Where can you get tested for ADHD if you also want to get a SPECT scan? If you’re interested in getting a brain scan for a more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment plan, consider visiting one of Amen Clinics’ 11 locations.
Amen Clinics has outpatient facilities in the following metro areas: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, New York, Orange County, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, and Washington DC.
How do doctors test for ADHD?
Healthcare providers use a variety of ADHD diagnostic tools, screening evaluations, and self-assessments, such as:
- ADHD questionnaires and checklists: These allow clinicians to understand more about your symptoms.
- Computerized continuous performance tests (CPTs): Computerized tests help measure attention and impulsivity.
- Online tests: The Adult ADHD Quiz from Amen Clinics is a self-assessment that offers important insights.
- Medical examinations: Physicians may perform a physical exam to rule out medical causes of ADHD symptoms.
We Are Here For You
ADD/ADHD and other mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Amen Clinics
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
Norman, L. J., Sudre, G., Price, J., & Shaw, P. (2024). Subcortico-cortical dysconnectivity in ADHD: A voxel-wise mega-analysis across multiple cohorts. American Journal of Psychiatry. https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.20230026
Huaiqiang Sun, Ying Chen, Qiang Huang, Su Lui, Xiaoqi Huang, Yan Shi, Xin Xu, John A. Sweeney, Qiyong Gong. Psychoradiologic Utility of MR Imaging for Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Radiomics Analysis. Radiology, vol. 287, No. 2, 2017. https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.2017170226
Hoogman, Martine et al. Subcortical Brain Volume Differences in Participants with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adults: A Cross-Sectional Mega-Analysis.
The Lancet Psychiatry, Vol. 4, Issue 4, 310 – 319, 2017. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(17)30049-4/abstract
Related Posts
How Negative Thinking Literally Shrinks Your Brain
Facebook-f X-twitter Youtube TL;DRNegative thinking isn’t just a habit. New study shows it may be linked to changes in brain function. Strong negativity bias is associated
Mental Health and Post-Concussion Syndrome: Katie’s Story
Facebook-f X-twitter Youtube TL;DRKatie Jolly struggled with mental health challenges for most of her life, often feeling ashamed and without clear answers.Her breakthrough came after
WHAT IS CLASSIC ADHD?
Classic ADD is often referred to as ADHD. The “H” is for hyperactivity and is one of the more notable symptoms of this type. Classic ADD/ADHD is the most common diagnosis of the 7 types and is the easiest to recognize. That’s because hyperactivity is one of the more notable symptoms of this type. The hyperactive-impulsive ADHD type is seen more frequently in boys. As babies, they tend to be colicky, active and wiggly. As children, they tend to be noisy, impulsive and demanding. Their hyperactivity, constant need for excitement, and conflict-seeking behavior typically make them the center of attention. Parents of these kids are often tired, overwhelmed and even embarrassed by the behavior of their non-stop, hard-to-control children. In adolescence and adulthood, people who suffer from Classic ADD typically have difficulties handling stress and maintaining relationships. As a group, these individuals also have low self-esteem, which can have negative consequences at work, at home, and in relationships. The standard treatment for Classic ADD in both children and adults is stimulant medications, such as Ritalin or Adderall. Sometimes negative reactions to these medications can be extreme, such as hallucinations, violent outbursts, psychosis, and suicidal behavior.ADD/ADHD IN THE BRAIN
Most of the 7 types of ADHD and ADD share a common feature of brain function. In people who don’t have ADD, concentration increases blood flow in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). This brain region is involved in focus, planning, organization, judgment, empathy, and impulse control. When activity increases in this region, it helps us focus and stay on task. In people with ADD, however, the opposite occurs. Blood flow decreases during concentration. This makes it difficult to focus. In fact, the harder they try, the harder it gets! This shows that this condition is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. ADD/ADHD is a neurobiological disorder with serious psychological and social consequences. In fact, research shows that having ADD/ADHD increases the risk of having other mental health disorders, such as clinical depression and substance use disorders.CORE ADD/ADHD SYMPTOMS
Though each of the ADD subtypes has its own set of symptoms, they all share the same core symptoms:- A short attention span for regular, routine, everyday tasks (homework, chores, etc.)
- Distractibility
- Organization problems (like having a messy room, always running late, etc.)
- Procrastination
- Forgetfulness
- Problems with follow-through
- Poor impulse control (saying or doing something before thinking it through)
TYPE 1: CLASSIC ADD SYMPTOMS
In addition to the core characteristics, Classic ADD entails a number of additional signs and symptoms, including:- Inattentiveness
- Has trouble listening when others are speaking; frequently interrupts
- Makes careless mistakes/poor attention to detail
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
- Has difficulty waiting their turn
- Acts as though they’re driven by a motor
- Talks excessively
CLASSIC ADHD TREATMENT
Medication isn’t the only way to treat ADD/ADHD. In fact, there are many natural ways to help ADD symptoms. Here are 6 lifestyle interventions that can help manage symptoms.- Keep moving.
- Make it fun.
- Be a stand-up employee.
- Get good sleep.
- Create a support structure.
- Get a customized solution.
- Do you have adult ADHD?
- What is your ADD type?
Are You Raising Competent Young Adults or Just Big Kids?
Excerpted from Raising Mentally Strong Kids, by Daniel Amen, MD, and Charles Fay, PhD Eighteen—that magic number we see as “adulthood.” Way before that age most of us hope that our kids are growing in independence, resourcefulness, responsibility, and resilience. As most seasoned parents know, however, it takes well into our children’s mid-twenties, or later, for most of us to feel they no longer need our guidance. It takes well into our children’s mid-twenties, or later, for most of us parents to feel they no longer need our guidance.WHY YOUNG ADULTS STILL NEED PARENTAL GUIDANCE
Basically, a young person’s brain is still developing until their mid-twenties, so they still need parental guidance. “Guidance” doesn’t mean that we need to be overly involved in their adult lives, trying to control their decisions. Nor does it mean that we are rescuing them from their poor decisions or even typical challenges. Guidance means we are showing that we care and believe in them, continuing to model what we hope they will become, and sharing our wisdom when they want it. That’s why most of the parenting skills of practical neuroscience also apply to young adult children. When you face relationship challenges or hear about their struggles, don’t hesitate to respond with love and firmness.5 PRINCIPLES OF RAISING MENTALLY STRONG KIDS AND YOUNG ADULTS
To raise mentally strong kids and young adults, you need to know the Five Principles of Love and Logic. Like a delicious meal, the first four principles are the ingredients. The fifth represents the wonderful results of combining them: Mutual Dignity + Shared Thinking + Shared Control + Empathy = Healthy Relationships.-
Develop mutual dignity with adult children.
- Asking nicely
- Maintaining healthy boundaries
- Setting limits that place responsibility and accountability where it belongs
2 (and 3). Strengthen shared thinking and shared control.
Boundaries help transition responsibility and accountability to where it belongs. When you embrace them, you give up trying to control your child. You allow them to take control and learn to use their brains. That’s the only way your children will grow up and you’ll transition out of the parent role.-
Use empathy.
-
Create healthy relationships.