Red Light Therapy for ADHD – Natural Support for Focus and Calm

Introduction: Red Light Therapy for ADHD Care

ADHD is short for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and can affect children and adults. It results in challenges with attention, impulsivity, and controlling emotions. This disorder can cause numerous problems in everyday life, as the individual may struggle to focus on work, stay organized, or manage their time effectively. Children suffering from ADHD usually cannot sit still or stay focused in school, while adults can experience issues at work or in their relationships.

Although medications like stimulants and non-stimulants, as well as behavior therapies, are often used to treat ADHD, they are not effective in everyone. Some individuals have annoying side effects such as sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, or mood shifts. Others simply do not want to be on a daily medication. Because of these constraints and increasing desire for natural and non-invasive treatments, many individuals are now seeking alternative therapy.

Red light therapy is growing popular as one of these promising alternatives. It is a non-drug, safe therapy that utilizes specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to promote brain function. These lights penetrate the cells of the body, augmenting cellular energy production, boosting blood supply, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cellular healing. Since brain function is inextricably linked to energy metabolism and blood flow, red light therapy should be able to boost mental focus, mood control, and attention, the essential challenges of ADHD.

Below, we explain how red light therapy works, what studies have to say about its benefits for people with ADHD, and how you can bring it as an adjunct therapy to improve attention, reduce impulsiveness, and overall cognitive processing.

Understanding ADHD: Causes, Symptoms, and Progression

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that also affects adults and children. Most are diagnosed with ADHD in childhood, although their symptoms may extend into adolescence and adulthood. ADHD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interferes with day-to-day functioning and development. The exact reason for ADHD is unknown, but it is believed to happen when genetic, neurological, and environmental factors act together. If there is a family history of ADHD, you or a relative could have a higher chance of getting ADHD. Environmental toxins such as tobacco smoke, alcohol, lead, or prematurity may increase the risk, too.

The signs of ADHD are generally divided into two general categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Individuals with inattentive symptoms may struggle to organize tasks, follow instructions, or maintain focus on a task. People with hyperactive-impulsive symptoms may have difficulty sitting still, talking too much, cutting others off, or acting on impulse without thinking. Some individuals have both sets of symptoms, which is called combined-type ADHD.

Challenges with Traditional ADHD Treatments

Those who try traditional treatments for ADHD are typically not satisfied with the results. Traditional treatments for ADHD usually involve a combination of medication, behavioral treatment, and lifestyle changes. While these treatments alleviate the symptoms, they never address the underlying cause of the disorder.

Medication, specifically the administration of stimulant drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin) or amphetamines (Adderall), is one of the primary ADHD treatments. Although these drugs have the ability to increase concentration and reduce impulsivity, they do have some side effects that are characterized by insomnia, suppressed appetite, fast heart rate, anxiety, and mood swings.

Behavioral therapy, another favored technique, involves designing coping responses, improving organization, and controlling impulsive behavior. While useful, it requires frequent time, effort, and, on occasion, the involvement of parents, teachers, or mental health professionals.

How Red Light Therapy Supports Brain Function in ADHD

The Science Behind Red Light Therapy for Cognitive Regulation

Red light therapy is an outpatient procedure that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to activate brain function at the cellular level. Red light therapy penetrates the scalp and reaches the brain tissue, where the mitochondria of the neurons absorb it. The wavelengths cause the mitochondria to increase energy production as ATP. The increase in energy production helps maintain mental clarity, emotional stability, and cognitive regulation.

In individuals with ADHD, there are certain areas of the brain—namely, those that have to do with attention, behavior, and emotion regulation—that often show decreased activity or delayed maturation. Red light therapy has the potential to normalize brain function by stimulating blood flow, reducing inflammation, and increasing energy levels in these vital areas.

Overall, red light therapy offers a surgery-free, drug-free method of supporting cognitive control by causing the brain to function more efficiently and remain in equilibrium better—something that most people with ADHD are not simply able to do daily.

Does Red Light Therapy Work for ADHD? What Research Says

Red light therapy is getting a lot of buzz for its potential impact in assisting individuals with ADHD, but it is early days for research. Experiments have shown that red light therapy enhances brain function by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting cellular healing. Red light therapy has been shown in some trials to reduce impulsive behavior, increase calmness, and improve focus.

Clinical Studies on Red Light Therapy for ADHD Patients

Study 1: Low-Level Laser Therapy Shows Promise for Cognitive Recovery After Traumatic Brain Injury.

Objective

We conducted this study to determine whether low-level laser therapy (LLLT) using near-infrared light at 800 nm could aid in restoring memory and intellectual function after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice. 

Results

When light therapy was administered approximately 1 hour after brain injury, it helped mice locate a hidden platform in a water maze test more quickly — a measure of improved memory and learning. The optimal outcomes were achieved using a dose of 60 J/cm², either transcranially (via the skull) or directly applied to the brain (following skull opening). This treatment also reduced brain inflammation, as evidenced by fewer activated immune cells (microglia). Giving light therapy over an extended period or for extended days did not have the same effects. The therapy did not enhance movement, decrease swelling, or decrease the size of the injury itself.

Conclusion

LLLT can potentially enhance cognitive recovery and alleviate brain inflammation following a traumatic brain injury, particularly when administered early and at an appropriate dosage. Further study is necessary to determine optimal treatment parameters and how it works.

Study 2: Low-Level Laser Therapy as a Non-Drug Treatment for Dementia Symptoms.

Objective

The research objective was whether or not low-level laser therapy (LLLT) could improve thinking and memory problems in people with dementia, as drugs typically don't work very effectively and are associated with side effects.

Results

In a population of patients treated with LLLT to the head, both at 2 weeks and 8 weeks, there was a statistically significant increase in their Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores. There was no quantifiable improvement in the group that received a sham treatment. There were few, non-significant changes in the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scores in both groups.

Conclusion

This study suggests that LLLT may be a potent, non-pharmacological therapy for supporting cognitive function in patients with dementia. It might be combined with standard medication with fewer side effects.

Note: These clinical trials do not show the direct use of red light therapy for ADHD, but they demonstrate how red light therapy improves brain function and supports the repair and regeneration of neurons (brain cells).

Choosing the Right Red Light Therapy Device for ADHD Support

Key Features to Look for in an Effective Device

Choosing good red light therapy equipment is crucial when you want to perform red light therapy for ADHD at home. The best device should possess all the essential features and be safe and effective for home applications. The following are the vital features to look for while buying an effective red light therapy unit:

Specific Wavelengths

The device must emit a therapeutic range of red and near-infrared light. For attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, it must emit red light at around 610, 630, 650, and 660 nm and near-infrared light at around 810, 830, 850, 980, and 1064 nm. They assist in enhancing brain function by stimulating cellular regeneration, improving blood flow, and reducing inflammation.

FDA Clearance

The device should be FDA-approved. FDA-approved devices or those from other nations' safety certifications undergo extensive testing to confirm that they are safe and effective for use.

Appropriate Power Output

The device should be sufficiently robust to allow the light to penetrate deeply into tissues without any disturbance or energy loss.

Variable Intensity Levels

Variable intensity levels enable you to control the treatment, which can be adjusted according to your level of comfort and sensitivity.

Portability

The equipment must be portable, allowing you to follow it and maintain regular sessions even when traveling out of town or on vacation.

Total Spectrum Devices: Red Light Therapy Tailored for ADHD

Overview of the Total Spectrum Series for Mental Performance

RLT Home is a company that manufactures a variety of good-standard and high-quality red light therapy machines. The machines emit the optimal spectrum of near-infrared and red light, which can indeed promote brain activity. They are FDA-approved and hold other certifications, such as CE and RoHS, which attest to their efficacy and safety. With proper power irradiance, these machines enable light to penetrate deeply into the cells of the brain, promoting cellular healing. They also come with user-friendly features that make them easy to use at home.

RLT Home offers a variety of sizes for the devices, from whole-body panels for complete care. Sessions can be customized by users based on comfort and need with adjustable intensity levels. They are designed with an automatic shut-off feature to avoid overuse and ensure safety. Based on whether you are concerned with cognitive health or overall wellness, the devices are designed to offer you results you can trust.

Best Practices for Using Red Light Therapy for ADHD Care

Finding the Right Dosage: Frequency, Session Length, and Distance

After purchasing a red light therapy device, you need to perform red light therapy for ADHD properly. You should start with short sessions and allow breaks between them. You can perform red light therapy 3 to 5 times a week, with each session lasting 10–20 minutes, and you must place the device 6–12 inches away from your body to avoid overheating

Conclusion: The Role of Red Light Therapy in ADHD Management

Why are More People Turning to Red Light Therapy for ADHD?

More people are turning to red light therapy for ADHD because it is a safe method that naturally improves brain activity. Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to help regulate mood and enhance brain function by reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation, and stimulating cellular recovery.

What are the Dangers of Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is harmless, even though it can occasionally cause side effects if there is improper use. If it is used for an extended period or placed too close to the skin, it can lead to overheating. Similarly, exposing your eyes directly to light can lead to eye damage.

FAQs: Addressing Common Questions

What does red light therapy do for ADHD?

Red light therapy treats ADHD by improving brain activity. Red light therapy does this by reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, enhancing blood flow towards brain cells, and stimulating cellular recovery.

What light is best for ADHD?

The best light for ADHD is red or near-infrared light, especially in the low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or red light therapy range. 

What are the top 3 treatments for ADHD?

The top 3 treatments for ADHD are medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes. Medicines like Adderall and Ritalin help improve focus and concentration: therapy and a healthy routine support better control and daily functioning.

References

1. Low-Level Laser Light Therapy Improves Cognitive Deficits and Inhibits Microglial Activation after Controlled Cortical Impact in Mice.
2. Significant Improvements in Cognitive Performance Post-Transcranial, Red/Near-Infrared Light-Emitting Diode Treatments in Chronic, Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Open-Protocol Study.