Recommended to treat symptoms of learning disorders, hypnosis can also support children with Attention Deficit Disorder, with or without Hyperactivity (ADHD). The professional’s techniques can then act on hyperactivity and/or inattention, in order to help them adopt good habits.
What are the 3 main symptoms of ADHD?
Attention Deficit Disorder, with or without Hyperactivity, is characterised by a triad of symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. The first shows up as difficulty concentrating for more than a few minutes; the second, as constant, uncontrolled physical restlessness; the third, as impulsivity, both physical and verbal.
This triad of symptoms is mostly seen combined or mixed together in children with ADHD, though some may show a predominance of hyperactivity/impulsivity, or a predominance of inattention.
Generally, ADHD symptoms are treated with conventional or traditional medicine. Hypnosis, meanwhile, fits into a complementary therapeutic approach. It can improve comfort for children and teenagers, easing the effects of ADHD and improving the management of associated disorders…
How does hypnosis support children with ADHD?
Safe for the child, hypnosis acts on their subconscious, aiming to reprogram and change their behaviour. But the child remains in control of themselves throughout the sessions, and can say “no” or leave the room if they feel the need to.
During the first session, called the “intake assessment,” the child doesn’t even need to be present at the appointment with the hypnotherapist: this allows parents to speak freely and calmly about their child’s situation and symptoms. In return, the professional takes the time to explain their approach, building a relationship of trust.
Depending on the child’s needs, the hypnotherapist can reduce unwanted behaviours linked to ADHD, using relaxation, breathing or visualisation techniques. They can help the child concentrate, reduce stress, or even improve their self-confidence. They can also help change how the child sees themselves, since the ADHD label is often seen as limiting or as making them different.
How does hypnosis adapt to the patient’s age?
While the goals may be the same from one child with ADHD to another, hypnosis sessions are adapted to their age, using a wide range of techniques and tools.
For example, the professional may recommend objects to help with concentration, such as a chewable pen topper. They can use hypnotic stories or magical thinking to better manage emotions. From age 8, they can introduce the child to self-hypnosis, so they can find their own calm and maintain that state.
On average, it takes around 5 hypnosis sessions to see a change in the child.
Don’t hesitate to contact a hypnotherapist on the Ora Visio platform to discuss support together! Requesting the intake assessment, for example, helps to clearly identify the issues.
