The Program
HeartMath: Coherence Training in Children With ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is designed for use with youth ages 8-14 who have a diagnosis of ADHD. The intervention aims to help these youth reduce stress, control impulses, and improve academic focus (e.g., word recognition, memory, attention, problem solving) by gaining and maintaining self-control over their emotional responses to stressful events.
Intended Audience
The HeartMath Coherence Training in Children With ADHD intervention is designed for use with children ages 8-14 who have been diagnosed with ADHD.
Implementation
HeartMath, which can be implemented by educators, clinicians, or parents, usually consists of 6-12 sessions, although more sessions can be conducted as needed. Sessions are brief to help participating youth sustain attention. Participants learn coherence-building techniques for emotional self-regulation, which teach them to focus on the physical area of the heart through deep, rhythmic breathing while thinking of positive feelings. This process is supported by emWave technology, and using an ear or finger sensor connected to a USB port on a computer running the emWave Desktop software, participants can view, on the computer screen, the different coherence levels and wave patterns produced by their heart rhythms (an indicator of physiological activity) in response to stressful and nonstressful thoughts. This visualization allows participants to monitor their pulse rates during different activities and learn how to self-regulate their emotions and maintain the breathing and heart rhythm pattern that is associated with nonstressful thoughts. The software also includes three age-appropriate games, of varying length, which help participants to practice coherence-building techniques. Throughout the sessions, implementers have opportunities to assess the progress of the youth.
Outcomes
Significant improvements in:
- Episodic memory, including delayed recall, immediate recall, and recognition
- Enhanced behavioral outcomes in children aged 9-13 with ADHD using HeartMath techniques and HRV coherence training
- Internalizing and externalizing problems
- Accuracy of new word recognition
Evidence
Several studies about the HeartMath Intervention Program have been conducted by the National Institutes of Health. Studies have shown the program’s effectiveness and significant improvements on student success in schools. The HeartMath Intervention Program has been recognized and validated by the National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices (NREPP).
Further studies can be found on HeartMath’s resource library.
Additional Resources
Trainer and Developer
The HeartMath Intervention Program was developed by Doc Childre alongside a scientific advisory board consisting of internationally recognized leaders in physics, biophysics, astrophysics, education, mathematics, engineering, cardiology, biofeedback and psychology among other disciplines.