Nature as a Supplementary Approach to Treat Adult ADHD in Ottawa
We are a group of highly trained independent professionals in Ottawa, who also work(ed) at Carleton University, Algonquin College and at CHEO. If you have been diagnosed with ADHD and/or are experiencing inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, or difficulties with time and project management, and chronic lack of success, know that you can learn compensatory strategies to maximize your chance of a successful life. We encourage you to read the following general information about the benefits of nature and to book an appointment.
Benefits of Nature
Nature has been associated with long-term psychological and physical benefits. Research indicates that exposure to nature boosts connectedness, promotes vitality, elicits positive emotions and encourages sustainable behaviours (Grandpierre, 2011). This is because green environments are associated with a sense of escape and an involuntary form of attention (Kaplan, 1995). Evidence also suggests that these benefits are experienced whether nature is viewed remotely or experienced directly (Maller, Townsend, Pryor, Brown, & St Leger, 2005).
Zsuzsanna Grandpierre, M.A.Ed, RP, CCC, conducted research with Dr. Diana Koszycki on the benefits of practicing mindfulness while walking in nature. Her research suggests that the practice of mindfulness increases the potential of benefiting from nature. To find out more about this study please visit Zsuzsanna Grandpierre’s page.
Impact of Nature on ADHD
Nature can be used as a supplementary approach to various therapeutic interventions to improve the management of various ADHD symptoms. ADHD is considered an Executive Function Deficit Disorder (EFDD). This means that executive functions, like working-memory and time management skills, are under-developed. Nature promotes executive function while simultaneously managing several other ADHD symptoms. A study from the University of Illinois found that merely twenty-minutes of walking in a park improved concentration levels in children with ADHD (Taylor & Kuo, 2009). Hence, nature is a supplementary factor that should be incorporated in your treatment plan for ADHD.
Green Therapy
Green therapy is a powerful way to connect your inner experiences, thoughts and emotions, to the outer world. At Bmindful we offer Walk and Talk Therapy (WTT). This form of therapy uses nature as a supplemental approach to conventional and evidence-based treatment interventions, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It will allow you and your therapist to use greenery and nature as a silent and active partner in the therapeutic process to foster self-understanding and growth. Visit our WTT page or schedule a consultation with one of our registered psychotherapists to determine if this is the right therapeutic approach for you.
References:
Maller, C., Townsend, M., Pryor, A., Brown, P., & St Leger, L. (2005). Healthy nature healthy people: ‘Contact with nature’ as an upstream health promotion intervention for populations. Health Promotion International, 21, 45–54.
Sarkis, S., & Tuckman, A. (2015). Natural relief for adult ADHD: Complementary strategies for increasing focus, attention, and motivation with or without medication. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications.
Taylor, A. F., & Kuo, F. E. (2009). Children with attention deficits concentrate better after walk in the park. Journal of Attention Disorders, 12(5), 402-409. doi: 10.1177/1087054708323000
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