What Alterations in the Salience Network Appear in ADHD?

PostedOctober 6, 2025

UpdatedOctober 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

In people with ADHD salience network studies, neuroimaging shows notable connectivity changes in the brain circuits responsible for identifying and prioritising important stimuli. These changes often affect regions like the anterior insula and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and impact how well someone with ADHD can shift their attention from internal thoughts or distractions to the task at hand. Attention shifting therefore becomes less efficient, leading to some of the characteristic struggles seen in ADHD.

Research reveals that in ADHD, the salience network shows hyper‑connectivity within itself but weaker ties to other networks such as the default mode network (DMN) and executive control networks. This imbalance in brain circuits means that the salience network may overreact to irrelevant stimuli (internal or external), causing lapses in focus and increased distractibility. Imaging studies also show that the network’s ability to switch between resting‑state and task‑focused states is reduced, further contributing to attentional difficulties.

Common Symptoms Linked to Salience Network Alterations

Below are symptoms tied to these network issues, and ways treatment may help:

Difficulty With Task Switching & Distraction

Someone may feel pulled away by thoughts or background noises, unable to shift focus to what matters. Medication (especially stimulants) can help stabilise network activity and improve connectivity changes, while CBT can offer techniques that train attention shifting and response control.

Increased Emotional Reactivity & Impulse Control Problems

Overactive internal signalling in salience circuits may result in emotional outbursts or impulsive actions when something seems immediately important. Behavioural therapy helps with regulating responses, and medication supports more balanced functioning of the affected brain circuits.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations tailored to your ADHD care and support needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD salience network.

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.