Effects of Yoga in Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Due to these core symptoms, more than 30-50% of children with ADHD may experience impaired motor abilities.

Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty maintaining focus on tasks for extended periods, forgetfulness, restlessness, fidgeting, impatience, trouble waiting in line, frequent interruptions, frequent falls, injuries, and clumsiness. Additionally, 39% of children with ADHD also have Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (CDS), which is characterized by symptoms such as daydreaming, slow and limited movement, appearing drowsy and lethargic, blank staring, looking confused, and impairments in motor and cognitive skills. CDS has been linked to psychopathology and functional impairments, including symptoms of depression and anxiety, independent of ADHD.

Treatment options for ADHD include both pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches. Due to its neurological basis, pharmacological treatments are typically the first-line intervention. However, physical exercise interventions such as yoga are also considered alternative therapeutic options. Yoga requires participants to perform complex motor skill combinations accurately and fluidly. Research suggests that yoga enhances dopamine and serotonin levels, which play a role in modulating motor, executive, impulsive, and cognitive functions. As a mind-body intervention, yoga improves attention and inhibitory control, making it an enjoyable and effective therapeutic approach for children with attention deficits. The aim of our study was to examine the effects of an 8-week yoga intervention on core symptoms, Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome, and motor skills in children with ADHD.

Inclusion criteria

• Aged 6 to 12 years
• Able to understand and accept verbal instructions
• Using medication which includes methylphenidate
• After the titration period, the drug dose should be between 0.6-1 mg/kg
• Not participating in any additional intervention programs other than the medication treatment initiated after the diagnosis
• The child and the parent being willing to participate in the study

Exclusion criteria

• Having comorbid diagnoses such as specific learning disorder, autism spectrum disorder, psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, or mental retardation
• Having a neurological, metabolic, or orthopedic condition such as head trauma, cerebral palsy, epileptic seizures, or visual and speech impairments.