The Brain Filter in People with ADHD Versus Neurotypical People

I. Introduction

II. The Brain Filter Concept

• Definition of Brain Filter
• Relevance in Daily FunctioningImpact on Cognitive Processes

III. How the Neurotypical Brain Filter Works

• Efficient Filtering of Information
• Role of Executive Function
• Selective Attention
• Impulse Control and Task Management
• Task Positive network, and Default mode network

IV. ADHD Brain Filter: Key Differences

• Impaired Filtering Mechanism
• Overload of Sensory Input
• Dysregulated Attention
• Weakened Executive Function

V. Neurological Basis of Differences

• Dopamine Dysregulation
• Prefrontal Cortex and ADHD
• Network Differences

VI. Consequences of Filter Differences

• For ADHD Individuals:
• For Neurotypical Individuals:

VII. Coping Strategies for People with ADHD

• Environmental Modifications
• Mindfulness and Focus Techniques
• Medication and Its Impact
• Behavioral Therapy

VIII. Conclusion

I. Introduction

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts our ability to focus, stay organized, and manage impulses. It can feel like there’s a constant tug-of-war between what we want to get done and what we can actually focus on. For many, it shows up in childhood, but the effects often stay with us through adulthood. What’s important to remember is that ADHD isn’t about a lack of willpower or effort—it’s about understanding how our brains work and finding strategies that help us thrive.

The brain has a filter, like a coffee filter that lets in all of the drink, but none of the grounds.  It helps us to focus on the important things.  In folks with ADHD, our filter doesn’t quite work like those with a neurotypical brain.

II. The Brain Filter Concept

• Definition of Brain Filter

The brain’s filter is like the compass that guides us through the constant stream of information, helping us decide what’s worth our attention and what can be let go. Every moment, we’re hit with countless stimuli—sounds, sights, thoughts—but the brain has this incredible ability to prioritize what really matters. It’s how we stay focused on what’s important and avoid getting swept away by distractions.

• Relevance in Daily Functioning

When this filter is working well, it allows us to stay present, make intentional choices, and manage the chaos. But when the filter isn’t functioning as it should—like for those with ADHD—it can feel like everything is coming at you all at once, making it harder to focus, prioritize, or feel in control. It’s not about trying harder; it’s about understanding how your brain works and finding tools to navigate the noise with compassion and clarity.

• Impact on Cognitive Processes

This means that focusing on one task or staying present can be a real struggle, not because of a lack of effort or care, but because the brain has a hard time deciding what’s most important in that moment. The cognitive process becomes more about navigating the flood of information than moving smoothly from thought to action. It’s not about pushing through or trying harder—it’s about understanding how the brain works and finding compassionate strategies that support focus and clarity in the midst of it all.

III. How Neurotypical Brain Filters Work

• Efficient Filtering of Information

In a neurotypical brain, processing information often feels like following a clear, well-lit path. There’s a natural rhythm—your brain receives information, sorts through what’s relevant, and helps you stay focused on the task at hand. It knows how to prioritize what’s important, gently filtering out distractions so you can move forward with intention and clarity.

For someone with ADHD, that path isn’t quite as clear. The brain takes in all the information, but instead of automatically filtering out the noise, it lets everything in. It’s like walking down a crowded street where every person, sound, and sight grabs your attention at once. The brain has a harder time deciding what to focus on and what to let go of. So, staying on task or managing priorities can feel overwhelming—not because of a lack of effort, but because the brain is processing so much more at once.

The difference isn’t about capability or willpower—it’s about how the brain is wired. For those with ADHD, it’s about learning to work with their brain, finding tools and strategies to create structure and focus, and offering themselves the grace and understanding that their path might look different, but it’s no less valid.

• Role of Executive Function

The prefrontal cortex is like the brain’s wise guide, helping us stay focused, make decisions, and filter out distractions. It’s the part of the brain that steps in when we need to prioritize, plan, or control our impulses—it’s where we sift through all the noise and figure out what truly matters in the moment.

When it comes to regulating attention, the prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in helping us stay present and focused on the task at hand. It’s the CEO, pointing us toward what’s important and gently nudging away the distractions that don’t serve us. But for those with ADHD, this part of the brain doesn’t always work in the same way. These executive functions are the mental skills that help us plan, organize, manage time, and control impulses. They’re what allow us to set goals, break them down into steps, and keep moving forward, even when things get tough or distractions pop up.

At their core, executive functions are what help us stay in control of our thoughts, emotions, and actions. They give us the ability to pause, think things through, and choose a response that aligns with our values instead of reacting impulsively. It’s how we shift gears when plans change, stay motivated when things get hard, and find focus in a world full of distractions.

It’s not a matter of trying harder; it’s about understanding that the prefrontal cortex in an ADHD brain needs different tools and strategies to thrive. 

• Selective Attention

The ability to focus on relevant tasks while ignoring irrelevant stimuli is about honing in on what truly matters, even when life feels full of distractions. It’s that deep sense of presence, where we can zero in on what’s in front of us and let the noise of the world fade into the background. This isn’t just about willpower; it’s about learning to stay grounded and intentional in a way that lets us filter through the clutter and focus on the work, conversation, or moment that deserves our attention.For many of us, this ability feels natural, but for others—especially those with ADHD—it’s a daily struggle.

• Impulse Control and Task Management

Smooth transitions between tasks and reduced impulsivity are about navigating life’s shifts with grace and intention. It’s the ability to move from one thing to another without getting bogged down by overwhelm or distraction. Imagine being able to seamlessly shift your focus, adapt to changes, and stay grounded in the moment, even when plans change or new challenges arise.  Having an idea about the person you want to be, and considering that before you make choices becomes essential.

Reduced impulsivity means pausing before reacting, giving ourselves a moment to choose our response rather than acting on a whim. It’s about creating space to think things through, which helps us respond in ways that align with our values and goals. It’s not always easy, especially when life throws curveballs or emotions run high.  At the same time, when those emotions grab you, and we want to scream and spit at the world it is the most important time to hold a moment and think about our response.

For many, managing these transitions and impulses comes more naturally, but for others—especially those with ADHD—these skills can require extra effort and understanding. 

• Task positive network, and Default mode network

The TPN (Task Positive Network) and DMN (Default Mode Network) are like the two sides of our brain’s conversation about focus and reflection.

The TPN is our brain’s “go-to” system when we’re deeply engaged in a task, making decisions, or solving problems. It’s like the part of us that’s fully in the moment, working hard to stay on track and navigate the task at hand. When we’re focused and in the zone, the TPN is at work, guiding us through the specifics of what we’re doing and helping us stay grounded in the present.

On the flip side, the DMN is our brain’s “inner world” system. It lights up when we’re not focused on the external world but instead diving into our thoughts, memories, or daydreams. It’s where we do our deep thinking, reflect on our experiences, and envision the future. When we’re drifting off or letting our mind wander, the DMN is doing its thing.

Balancing these two networks is essential. The TPN keeps us anchored and productive, while the DMN gives us space for introspection and creativity. When we understand and work with these networks, we can harness both our focus and our reflection, finding harmony between doing and dreaming.

IV. ADHD Brain Filter: Key Differences

• Impaired Filtering Mechanism

Instead of naturally blocking out irrelevant stimuli, the ADHD brain can let everything in, making it hard to focus on one thing without being overwhelmed by the noise of everything else. It’s not about a lack of willpower or effort; it’s about the way the brain processes and manages the flood of information.

The challenge is finding ways to support this filtering process, creating a space where focus can thrive amidst the chaos. With understanding and the right tools, it’s possible to build strategies that help manage distractions and nurture the ability to stay engaged with what’s important. Oftentimes, minor modifications to the environment make a huge difference.  Using a single stimulus to “ground” us can help us not only focus on one incoming stimulus, but organize other stimuli coming in.  For example, someone flipping a pen top to bottom, tapping and turning it over again focuses the physical input, so that the person can also focus on the lecture they are listening to, and process it.  

• Overload of Sensory Input

In ADHD, an overload of sensory input is like having every sense on high alert all at once. Picture walking into a bustling, brightly lit room where every sound, sight, and smell is amplified—each one calling for your attention. For someone with ADHD, this constant bombardment of sensory stimuli can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to focus or process any one thing clearly.

This sensory overload means that the brain is trying to handle more information than it can comfortably manage. Instead of filtering out the background noise, everything gets through, creating a swirl of distractions that can make even the simplest tasks feel daunting.

• Dysregulated Attention

Balancing hyperfocus and distractibility—can be a real challenge for someone with ADHD. It’s like trying to dance between two extremes: on one side, there’s hyperfocus, where you become so absorbed in one thing that you lose track of everything else around you. On the other, there’s distractibility, where your attention flits from one thing to another, making it hard to stay engaged with any one task.

For someone with ADHD, these shifts aren’t just about difficulty concentrating—they’re about a constant battle to manage where their focus lands and how long it stays there. Hyperfocus can be both a blessing and a curse; it’s the intense concentration that can lead to remarkable productivity, but it also means losing track of time and neglecting other responsibilities. Distractibility, on the other hand, means that even with the best intentions, staying on task can feel nearly impossible when everything around you demands attention.

The real challenge is in finding a balance—understanding how to harness the power of hyperfocus when it’s beneficial and managing distractibility so it doesn’t derail progress. It’s not about blaming oneself for these difficulties; it’s about developing strategies and tools that support better focus and help navigate the shifts between attention and distraction.

• Weakened Executive Function

Deficiencies in prefrontal cortex activity can significantly impact decision-making and impulse control for people with ADHD. The prefrontal cortex is like the brain’s executive manager, overseeing our ability to plan, make decisions, and regulate our impulses. When this part of the brain isn’t functioning at its best, it can be challenging to make thoughtful choices and control spontaneous reactions.

In practical terms, this means that decision-making can become more about reacting to immediate impulses rather than considering long-term consequences. For someone with ADHD, this might look like making snap decisions or struggling to think through the potential outcomes of their actions. It’s like trying to steer a ship without a clear map or compass—there’s a lot of steering back and forth without a clear direction.

Impulse control also suffers because the brain’s ability to pause, reflect, and choose a measured response isn’t as strong. This can lead to acting on impulse rather than taking a moment to assess the situation. It’s not about a lack of self-control or discipline; it’s about understanding that the prefrontal cortex isn’t always able to manage these processes as effectively.  At the same time, like a muscle, impulse control can be exercised.  With hard work it can be lengthened so that consideration for who you want to be is considered to help you make the best choice for yourself in that moment, while looking at the big picture. 

V. Neurological Basis of Differences

• Dopamine Dysregulation

Dopamine is like the brain’s reward and motivation chemical, playing a crucial role in how we experience pleasure, drive, and focus. In ADHD brains, dopamine doesn’t always function the way it does in neurotypical brains. This can impact motivation and focus in a few significant ways.

When dopamine levels are off, it can make it harder to experience the sense of reward or satisfaction that typically comes with completing tasks. This means that activities that should feel motivating might not spark the same drive or excitement. For someone with ADHD, this can lead to challenges in staying motivated or feeling engaged, especially with tasks that don’t offer immediate rewards or stimulation.

Additionally, dopamine is key to regulating attention and focus. When the dopamine system isn’t working optimally, it can be harder to sustain attention or resist distractions. It’s like trying to keep your gaze fixed on a single point when everything around you is vying for your attention.

Managing these challenges often involves finding ways to boost dopamine levels through strategies that provide immediate rewards, structure, and engagement. It’s about understanding how the dopamine system works and using that knowledge to create an environment where motivation and focus can thrive, even when the brain’s chemistry presents additional hurdles.

• Prefrontal Cortex and ADHD

Reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex can have a significant impact on how someone with ADHD manages their focus and filtering abilities. The prefrontal cortex is crucial for executive functions—things like decision-making, impulse control, and prioritizing what’s important. When its activity is diminished, it can affect how effectively someone filters out distractions and maintains attention on relevant tasks.

Here’s how it plays out:

1. Difficulty Prioritizing: With reduced prefrontal cortex activity, the brain struggles to prioritize what’s important. This means that everything—whether it’s a crucial task or a minor distraction—can feel equally urgent or demanding. The result is a heightened sense of overwhelm and difficulty focusing on any one thing.
2. Struggles with Impulse Control: The prefrontal cortex helps regulate impulses and control reactions. When its activity is low, it becomes harder to pause and think before acting. This can lead to impulsive decisions and reactions, making it challenging to stay on track or make thoughtful choices.
3. Challenges with Filtering: One of the key roles of the prefrontal cortex is to filter out irrelevant stimuli and distractions. With reduced activity, the brain might not effectively block out these distractions, allowing more noise to interfere with focus. This means that background sounds, unrelated thoughts, or other environmental factors can intrude more easily, making it harder to stay concentrated.

In essence, when the prefrontal cortex is less active, it’s like trying to drive with a foggy windshield—everything feels blurry and hard to navigate. Understanding this helps in creating strategies and supports that can help manage these challenges, such as using tools for organization, setting clear priorities, and developing techniques to minimize distractions.

• Network Differences

In people with ADHD, the Task Positive Network (TPN) and the Default Mode Network (DMN) can be dysregulated, meaning their balance and functioning are disrupted. We are currently still working to understand it, and there have been a few theories.  The current one as of this blog has been that in people with ADHD, the DMN remains active even when the TPN is active. Here’s how it affects attention and focus:

1. Task Positive Network (TPN) Dysregulation: The TPN is activated when we’re engaged in focused, goal-directed tasks. In ADHD, this network might not activate as efficiently, or it might not sustain activation long enough to maintain focus on tasks, or it may be dealing with the DMN staying “on”. This can make it challenging to stay on track with work or projects because the brain struggles to keep the attention centered on the task at hand. Additionally, the TPN might be overactive or underactive, causing fluctuating levels of attention and difficulties in maintaining consistent focus.
2. Default Mode Network (DMN) Dysregulation: The DMN is active when the brain is at rest and engaged in internal thoughts, daydreaming, or self-referential processing. In ADHD, the DMN may remain too active during tasks requiring concentration or may not deactivate properly when focus is needed. This can lead to frequent mind-wandering or getting easily distracted by irrelevant thoughts. Essentially, when the DMN doesn’t shut down as it should, it becomes harder to filter out distractions and stay present with the task.

The interplay between the TPN and DMN is crucial for effective attention management. When these networks are dysregulated, it’s like trying to drive with one foot on the gas and one on the brake—there’s a constant battle between staying focused and getting sidetracked. Understanding this dysregulation helps in developing strategies to manage attention, such as creating structured environments, using tools to enhance focus, and implementing techniques to minimize internal distractions.

VI. Consequences of Filter Differences

• For ADHD Individuals

For someone with ADHD, the challenges related to attention regulation, task prioritization, impulsivity, emotional and cognitive overload, and executive functioning can be significantly different from those experienced by their neurotypical counterparts. 

People with ADHD often find it difficult to regulate their attention, impulsivity, and task prioritization. They may experience frequent shifts between tasks or get easily distracted by external stimuli or their own thoughts. This contrasts with neurotypical individuals, who generally have a more consistent ability to focus and sustain attention on a task, control their impulses, and prioritize what’s important.

The brain is constantly processing a high volume of sensory input, which can lead to emotional and cognitive overload. This ongoing barrage of stimuli can make it difficult to focus or manage emotions effectively. Neurotypical individuals usually have a better ability to filter and manage sensory input, leading to less frequent emotional and cognitive overwhelm.  Rejection sensitive dysphoria is also commonly associated with individuals struggling with ADHD, and we sometimes required assistance in managing that overwhelm.

• For Neurotypical Individuals:

Neurotypical individuals often experience more consistent attention regulation, better control over cognitive resources, and easier transitions between tasks compared to those with ADHD. Here’s a closer look at why this is:

Consistent Attention Regulation

• Stable Focus: Neurotypical people generally have a well-regulated attention system that allows them to maintain focus on tasks without being easily distracted. This stability comes from an effective filtering system in the brain that helps prioritize important information while tuning out irrelevant stimuli.
• Efficient Resource Allocation: Their cognitive resources are allocated efficiently, allowing them to stay engaged with a task for extended periods. This consistent attention is supported by the balanced activity of networks like the Task Positive Network (TPN), which helps sustain focus and manage task-related demands.

Better Control Over Cognitive Resources

• Effective Filtering: Neurotypical brains are adept at filtering out unnecessary stimuli. This means that when they need to focus on a task, their brain effectively reduces the impact of distracting information. This filtering ability helps in maintaining attention on what’s relevant and ignoring what’s not.
• Balanced Cognitive Load: They can better manage cognitive load, meaning they handle multiple tasks or sources of information more smoothly without becoming overwhelmed. This balance is supported by the efficient regulation of executive functions like working memory and cognitive flexibility.

Easier Transition Between Tasks

• Seamless Shifts: Transitioning between tasks is generally smoother for neurotypical individuals. Their executive functions—particularly those managed by the prefrontal cortex—help them plan, organize, and switch gears efficiently. They can easily adjust their focus and prioritize new tasks without significant difficulty.
• Reduced Overlap: The ability to manage transitions effectively is partly due to a well-regulated Default Mode Network (DMN) and Task Positive Network (TPN). When the DMN deactivates appropriately and the TPN activates, it supports smooth task switching and reduces cognitive friction.

For individuals with ADHD, these processes can be less streamlined. The ADHD brain may struggle with sustained attention, efficient filtering of irrelevant stimuli, and smooth task transitions due to differences in how these networks operate. Understanding these differences highlights why specific strategies and supports are crucial for managing attention and executive functioning in ADHD.

VII. Coping Strategies for People with ADHD

• Environmental Modifications

Minimizing distractions and creating structured routines are powerful ways to manage ADHD, and here’s why they work so well:

Minimizing Distractions

• Less Overwhelm: When we reduce the sensory overload around us, it’s like clearing away the clutter so we can see more clearly. For someone with ADHD, a less chaotic environment helps the brain focus better by letting go of the constant barrage of competing stimuli. A quiet, organized workspace can make a huge difference in staying on task.
• Focused Attention: By creating a space with fewer interruptions, we help the brain to better filter out what’s irrelevant. This means less mental energy spent on distractions and more capacity to stay engaged with the task at hand. It’s about setting up an environment where focus can thrive.

Creating Structured Routines

• Predictable Rhythm: A well-structured routine brings a sense of predictability and order. For those with ADHD, this consistency can be a comforting anchor in the midst of chaos. Knowing what to expect helps reduce the mental load of figuring out what comes next and supports a smoother flow through daily tasks.
• Organized Approach: Having a routine means breaking tasks into manageable steps and allocating time for each one. It helps in planning and prioritizing, making it easier to stay on track and achieve goals. Think of it as laying out a map that guides you through the day with more clarity and purpose.
• Easing Decision-Making: By following a routine, we reduce the number of decisions we need to make about what to do next. This can lessen decision fatigue and help us stay focused. When routines are in place, there’s less mental strain about what to tackle, allowing us to channel our energy more effectively.

In essence, these strategies help create a supportive framework that aligns with the unique needs of the ADHD brain. It’s about making space for focus and productivity, while also embracing the importance of compassion and understanding in navigating the daily journey.

• Mindfulness and Focus Techniques

Mindfulness and focus techniques are powerful tools for training attention and enhancing self-awareness, and here’s how they work:

Mindfulness

• Cultivating Present-Moment Awareness: Mindfulness encourages us to fully engage with the present moment. By practicing mindfulness, we learn to observe our thoughts and feelings without judgment, which helps us become more aware of what’s happening in our minds and bodies. This heightened awareness can improve our ability to focus on the task at hand and reduce the tendency to get caught up in distractions.
• Enhancing Emotional Regulation: Mindfulness helps us recognize and understand our emotional responses. By becoming more aware of our emotions and how they affect our behavior, we can better manage our reactions and maintain a sense of calm and control. This emotional insight supports better focus and reduces impulsivity.
• Building Attention Skills: Regular mindfulness practice trains the brain to return to a point of focus when it wanders. This exercise strengthens our attention control, making it easier to sustain concentration over time. It’s like giving our brain a workout to improve its ability to stay on task.

Focus Techniques

• Improving Concentration: Techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique or time-blocking help structure our work and break tasks into manageable segments. By using these techniques, we can improve our ability to concentrate by setting clear goals and creating a rhythm that supports sustained attention.
• Reducing Distractions: Focus techniques often involve strategies for minimizing interruptions, such as turning off notifications or creating a designated workspace. This helps create an environment where we can maintain better control over our attention and stay engaged with our tasks.
• Enhancing Task Management: Techniques like prioritizing tasks and setting specific, achievable goals help us manage our workload more effectively. This structured approach supports better organization and focus, making it easier to tackle tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

In essence, mindfulness and focus techniques provide practical ways to train our attention and increase self-awareness. They help us develop a deeper understanding of how our minds work, improve our ability to concentrate, and create a supportive environment for achieving our goals. Through consistent practice, we build the skills to navigate distractions and stay present with greater ease and intention.

• Medication and Its Impact

Stimulants and non-stimulants are two common approaches to treating ADHD, and they each play a unique role in how the brain manages attention and distractions. Think of them as different tools that help tune the brain’s filtering system, allowing for clearer focus and better control over what matters. Here’s how they work:

Stimulants

• Boosting Neurotransmitter Levels: Stimulants, like methylphenidate and amphetamines, work by increasing the levels of key neurotransmitters—primarily dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are like the fuel that powers attention, focus, and impulse control. When their levels rise, the brain can more easily filter out distractions and stay locked in on what’s important.
• Normalizing Brain Function: Stimulants also help bring balance to the brain networks that regulate attention and executive functioning, especially the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain that handles decision-making, focus, and impulse control. When this area is functioning well, the brain is better at sorting out relevant from irrelevant information, making it easier to stay on task.
• Improving Attention Control: With the boost in dopamine and norepinephrine, stimulants increase the brain’s ability to stay focused and manage distractions. For people with ADHD, this can mean the difference between feeling scattered and finding a rhythm that keeps them engaged in the present moment.

Non-Stimulants

• Modulating Neurotransmitter Activity: Non-stimulant medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv), take a different approach. Atomoxetine increases norepinephrine levels, which can help with attention and reduce impulsive behavior. Guanfacine works on a different set of receptors that support attention and help calm hyperactivity.
• Supporting Cognitive Functions: While non-stimulants may take a bit longer to show results, they offer steady support to the brain’s attention and executive control systems. Over time, they help the brain’s filtering system become more efficient, so that focusing on what matters becomes easier.
• An Alternative Approach: For those who don’t respond well to stimulants or who experience unwanted side effects, non-stimulants provide a different way forward. They work by targeting different parts of brain function, offering a more personalized approach to managing ADHD and improving attention.

In a Nutshell

Both stimulants and non-stimulants help adjust the brain’s filtering system, but they do so in different ways. Stimulants tend to provide more immediate, noticeable improvements in focus and attention, while non-stimulants offer a slower, steadier path. The key is finding the approach that works best for each individual—whether that’s a fast-acting boost or a more gradual shift in how the brain processes and prioritizes information.

• Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is like giving the brain a workout, training it to better handle distractions and focus on what matters most. For people with ADHD, their brain filter—the system that helps them sort through the noise of life and zero in on the important stuff—can feel like it’s constantly on overdrive or just not working as well as they’d like. That’s where behavioral therapy comes in, and I enjoy using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy or ACT approaches with clients.

Strengthening Self-Awareness

ACT teaches us to recognize patterns in our thoughts and behaviors. It’s like shining a light on how we respond to distractions or impulses. For someone with ADHD, this awareness is key. The more you notice how your brain reacts to stimuli, the better you can learn to pause, assess, and choose a different response. This practice helps sharpen the brain’s filter, making it easier to focus on what truly deserves attention.

Building New Habits

Through ACT, individuals with ADHD learn practical strategies to manage their environment and behaviors—things like breaking tasks into smaller pieces, using reminders, or creating routines. Over time, these strategies help the brain build stronger pathways for staying focused and filtering out distractions. It’s like creating a mental muscle memory for attention. The more you practice, the stronger and more automatic these habits become, helping to compensate for the brain’s natural challenges with filtering.

Managing Emotional Triggers

ADHD isn’t just about focus—it’s also about how emotions can sometimes hijack attention, and how many of us struggle with rejection sensitive dysphoria. ACT helps individuals learn how to regulate emotional responses, which can be a huge factor in improving the brain’s filtering system. When emotions aren’t running the show, it’s easier to stay grounded and make thoughtful decisions about where to direct your energy and focus.

Reducing Impulsivity

By practicing techniques that slow down impulsive reactions—whether that’s taking a breath before responding or creating a pause between thought and action—ACT strengthens the brain’s ability to filter out unnecessary distractions. This improved impulse control helps people with ADHD focus on long-term goals rather than getting sidetracked by the immediate, shiny distractions in front of them.

Overall

Behavioral therapy doesn’t change the ADHD brain itself, but it teaches the brain how to navigate the world more effectively. It helps fine-tune the filtering process by building awareness, habits, emotional regulation, and impulse control. The result? A brain that’s more capable of focusing on what matters and filtering out what doesn’t. It’s all about creating a compassionate, practical approach to managing ADHD—one that empowers individuals to work with their brains, not against them.

VIII. Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the brain filter and how it works—or doesn’t work—in ADHD is essential to finding the right treatment and approach. Whether it’s medication to boost neurotransmitters, therapy to build coping strategies, or mindfulness to improve self-awareness, strengthening the brain’s filtering system is key to managing ADHD effectively. The best approach is often a combination of these tools, tailored to the individual’s unique needs.