Published online Dec 22, 2015. doi: 10.5498/wjp.v5.i4.397
Peer-review started: June 15, 2015
First decision: August 25, 2015
Revised: September 8, 2015
Accepted: October 16, 2015
Article in press: October 19, 2015
Published online: December 22, 2015
Processing time: 189 Days and 15 Hours
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) manifests by high levels of inattention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. ADHD starts in childhood and results in impairments that continue into adulthood. While hyperactivity declines over time, inattention and executive function difficulties persist, leading to functional deficits. Adolescents and adults with ADHD have pervasive impairment in interpersonal and family relationships. They may develop addiction, delinquent behavior and comorbid psychiatric disorders. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, persistent residual symptoms are common, highlighting the need for novel treatment strategies. Mindfulness training, derived from Eastern meditation practices, may improve self-regulation of attention. It may also be a useful strategy to augment standard ADHD treatments and may be used as a potential tool to reduce impairments in patients with residual symptoms of ADHD. Clinically, this would manifest by an increased ability to suppress task-unrelated thoughts and distractions resulting in improved attention, completion of tasks and potential improvement in occupational and social function.
Core tip: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic and potentially handicapping developmental disorder that affects both children and adults. Recent advances in research have led to improved screening, diagnostic algorithms, pharmacologic and psychosocial treatment for patients with ADHD. However, impairing residual symptoms persist for most affected individuals. This article explores empirical evidence supporting the use of meditation for inattention in ADHD. The results of the study have found evidence for mindfulness training as a potentially effective treatment for residual inattention after pharmacological treatment of ADHD. Adequately powered prospective studies are needed to firmly establish efficacy.