Hypnotherapy is one of many alternative treatment options used for addressing a range of conditions, including Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).  This is part of a growing trend as people look for solutions to health problems that do not carry the same risk of side effects as some conventional prescription medication. 

What is ADD?

ADD is one of many behavioural disorders that affects children, and is characterised by a range of symptoms, including an inability to concentrate, forgetfulness, restlessness and mood swings. Chemical imbalances in the brain are the primary cause, and the condition is typically treated with medication that attempts to restore the equilibrium. Whilst effective, the side effects often lead sufferers or parents to seek natural alternatives.  Side effects include insomnia, nervousness and a lack of creativity in children.  Recent research has found that some ADHD patients only have one aspect of the condition, namely attention deficit or hyperactivity – though some do have both elements.

What is Hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is the term used to describe the therapy that is undertaken when a patient has been hypnotised. Hypnosis can best be described as a state of relaxation and concentration, where the subject is still aware of what is taking place in their environment. It essentially involves attention to one subject, while temporarily suspending everything else, and is conducted under the supervision of a trained therapist.  This state enables the subconscious mind to remain awake and receptive to initiatives from the therapist.  If experienced under the guidance of a trained hypnotherapist, hypnosis is perfectly safe. Besides ADD, hypnotherapy is also used to treat a wide range of other conditions, including anxiety, asthma, phobias, insomnia, stress and panic attacks.  

How Can Hypnotherapy Help ADD?

Hypnotherapy can be utilised to help ADD sufferers to transform their behaviours, gain a sense of control, increase their self esteem and competence, and reduce stress. In the same way that counselling is used to identify problems, identify goals and track progress hypnotherapy can use the state of hypnosis to concentrate the patients mind on resolving the pattern of negative behaviour. This is especially useful for ADD sufferers who have trouble focusing on a subject for any length of time. It is particularly helpful when it is integrated into a treatment program and adapted to the sufferer’s developmental age.  While it may not necessarily improve the core symptoms of ADD, it can help with the associated symptoms such as sleep disturbances.

Find out about other effecitve natural ADD treatments.