-1733307894593.webp)
Living with ADHD can feel like an overwhelming challenge, where everyday tasks such as writing an email or staying focused seem daunting. Common symptoms like difficulty concentrating, restlessness, impulsivity, and ADHD paralysis make daily functioning a struggle. Among several claims on calming these individuals, one that has gained traction is pertinent to constant ringing sounds inducing a calming feeling among those with ADHD.
To understand if this claim has a concrete basis or otherwise, we at OnlyMyHealth spoke to an expert– Namrata Upadhyay, Co-Founder and Clinical Psychologist at Synapses Neuropsychiatry Center, New Delhi.
Related: Mental Health Matters: How ADHD Amplifies Intrusive Thoughts and Ways to Handle Them
The Science Behind Sound Therapy For ADHD
-1733308334505.jpg)
Upadhyay explains,“People with ADHD tend to have a higher level of “mental background noise” or neural activity. A steady external sound, like constant ringing or white noise, creates a predictable auditory environment. This reduces the brain’s tendency to seek additional stimulation from distractions.”
ADHD is linked to low levels of dopamine and arousal in the brain, making it harder for individuals to stay focused on tasks, some studies suggest that listening to music, specifically constant sounds could be a simple and effective tool to enhance concentration.
In a 2021 study, researchers found that beta waves, ranging from 12.5–30 Hz, can improve focus and cognitive performance in people with ADHD. Brown noise, which contains deep bass frequencies, falls within the low-frequency range that aligns with beta waves, potentially making it beneficial for individuals with ADHD. Additionally, white and pink noise too were found to improve cognitive function in those with ADHD.
How These Sounds Help Those With ADHD
This is because constant sounds provide consistent sensory input, which helps reduce distractions and offers mild stimulation to support attention. Corroborating this, our expert says that this consistent sound may also calm the brain’s need for novelty, ultimately aiding in emotional regulation and focus. Upadhyay further emphasizes, “People with ADHD may find constant ringing or white noise helpful for focus because it provides consistency in sensory input, reduces distractions, and offers mild stimulation to support attention.”
Upadhyay also highlights how sound can impact those with ADHD: “A steady external sound creates a particular and predictable auditory environment, which helps reduce the brain’s need to seek additional stimulation from distractions.” This consistent sensory input can help regulate focus and emotions, ultimately leading to better management of ADHD symptoms.
The Role of Music In ADHD Management
In addition to sound therapy, music can also play a key role in managing ADHD symptoms. A study examining found that some students with ADHD showed improved classroom performance when listening to music while working. However, the results were not universal, as music seemed to distract some participants. Despite this, experts suggest that certain types of music can help increase dopamine levels, which are often deficient in people with ADHD.
Music therapy; whether active (playing an instrument) or passive (listening to music) has shown promise in reducing ADHD symptoms. For individuals looking to improve concentration, experts recommend listening to calm, medium-tempo music with simple, easy-to-follow rhythms, which can help enhance focus and productivity.
Related: Alia Bhatt Reveals Having Attention Deficit Disorder; Signs And Symptoms To Look Out For
Bottomline
By providing consistent stimulation and improving focus, these simple, accessible solutions can help people with ADHD better manage their symptoms and improve their daily functioning. With these findings in mind, people with ADHD may want to explore brown noise, white noise, and music therapy as tools to enhance concentration and cognitive performance without the need for expensive treatments or extensive research. By incorporating these sound-based techniques into their routines, individuals with ADHD can take control of their attention, emotions, and overall well-being.