How are executive functions affected in ADHD?
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To improve executive functions, a combination of practical strategies, goal management theory, and coaching is suggested. Human interaction and guidance are essential, as these skills are not easily taught through technology alone. For example, in your role as a student or mentor, learning how to conduct research and design experiments is facilitated by someone providing direction and wisdom to manage goals and avoid distractions. Furthermore, activities that require goal setting, filtering out distractions, and monitoring progress, such as cooking, playing chess, or improvisational theater, can also contribute to strengthening executive functions 1.
Goal management training, which is a therapy developed to help patients improve executive function, involves hard work, therapist interaction, and practicing real-life applications like planning a meal or vacation. This training method requires discipline, but when applied over time, it has shown positive results in real-life scenarios. The addition of mindfulness training to such goal management further enhances executive function by helping to maintain focus and refocus when needed 2 3.
It's also been noted that enhancing neuroplasticity through various means, such as neurochemistry, behavioral practices, and brain-machine interfaces, is likely to benefit executive functions. An example provided is combining a substance like Kanna, which has shown to increase cognition and executive function while reducing anxiety, with a gratitude practice or other cognitive exercises 4.
For a more detailed exploration of strategies to enhance executive functions involving cognitive therapy, it might be beneficial to reference the full conversation from the episode "Dr. Mark D'Esposito: How to Optimize Cognitive Function & Brain Health" where these topics are discussed .
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