Bradley Hospital in Rhode Island is investigating a new treatment for ADHD in teenagers involving transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique. Dr. Brian Kavanaugh, leading the research, explains that TMS targets the prefrontal cortex, a brain region crucial for attention, memory, and control.
“Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive way to activate patches of the brain to increase brain activity and improve clinical symptoms,” Dr. Kavanaugh told WJAR in an interview.
A Black teenage participant, Amaya Harvey, struggled with ADHD symptoms despite traditional treatments like medication and dietary changes. Her mother, Keesha Ingram, enrolled her in the TMS trial. Initial results were promising, but symptoms returned over time. A subsequent booster treatment proved beneficial.
“My brain would run really fast. I wouldn’t be able to say stuff fluently so I would say something and it would come out fast, people wouldn’t understand me,” Harvey also told WJAR.
While the study is still ongoing, with more participants needed, early findings suggest TMS is safe and potentially effective for ADHD in teenagers. Researchers are now focused on determining the long-term benefits of the treatment.
How does ADHD affect Black children?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While it affects children of all backgrounds, the experience of ADHD for Black American kids is often marked by unique challenges.
A CDC report shows that Black children are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD or another learning disability compared to their non-Black peers.
When Black children are correctly diagnosed with ADHD, the available treatment options are similar to those for children of other racial backgrounds. These typically include:
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- Medication: Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. They can help improve focus, attention, and impulsivity. Non-stimulant medications are also available for some children.
- Behavioral therapy: This involves teaching children and parents strategies for managing ADHD symptoms. It can include techniques for improving organization, time management, and problem-solving skills.
- Educational accommodations: Schools can provide accommodations to help children with ADHD succeed in the classroom. This might include extended time on tests, preferential seating, or breaks during class.
It’s crucial to note that the effectiveness of treatment can vary significantly between individuals. A combination of medication and behavioral therapy is often the most effective approach. However, finding the right treatment plan may require trial and error.
Addressing the disparities in ADHD diagnosis and treatment for Black American children requires a multifaceted approach. This includes increasing awareness of ADHD symptoms, reducing racial biases in the health care system, expanding access to mental healthcare, and providing culturally competent care.
