Neurotechnology for ADHD and Depression: Mechanisms, Evidence, and Challenges

Abstract

: Common mental disorders that decrease the quality of life include Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). A lot of patients are not receptive to medication or psychotherapy. This generates the necessity of alternative therapies. The question this paper poses is how neurotechnology can be utilized to aid in treating ADHD and MDD. It discusses the recent empirical studies and meta-analyses of neurofeedback and non-invasive brain stimulation. The results indicate that it is possible to directly manipulate the abnormal brain activity with the help of neurotechnology. Brain stimulation and neurofeedback have benefits in ADHD in terms of attention, inhibitory control, and working memory. The neurofeedback and advanced TMS protocols used in MDD decrease depressive symptoms and enhance cognitive performance. The research potential of the closed-loop and AI-assisted systems also demonstrates the potential of personalized intervention. Altogether, neurotechnology represents one of the promising, non-drug options.