my patient advice logo - used for header - mypatientadvice.co.uk
All Topics
Contact Us
Free Health Updates
Table of Contents
< All Topics
Print

Can Brain Training Impact Brain Structure and Function in ADHD Patients?

PostedAugust 19, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

ADHD brain imaging has shown that brain training can have a positive effect on both brain structure and brain function in ADHD patients. Research suggests that cognitive training exercises, which target attention, memory, and executive function, can lead to functional changes in the brain, particularly in regions that are typically underdeveloped or less active in individuals with ADHD. These regions include the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and planning. 

By engaging in brain training, ADHD patients can enhance cognitive abilities such as attention span, working memory, and self-regulation, all of which are often impaired in those with ADHD cognitive issues. The improvement in these areas is not just behavioural; studies show that regular brain training can lead to structural changes in the brain as well. This can result in better organisation of brain networks, making cognitive processes more efficient and supporting neurodevelopment. These changes may help reduce the severity of symptoms and support better overall brain function. 

Complete your ADHD assessment

How It Helps 

Brain training provides several benefits for individuals with ADHD:

Improved Focus

Exercises that target attention can help increase the ability to sustain focus on tasks, addressing common ADHD cognitive issues. 

Better Impulse Control

Cognitive exercises can improve self-regulation, reducing impulsive actions and helping individuals with ADHD make more measured decisions. 

Enhanced Memory and Planning

Strengthening executive function through brain training can improve memory and organisational skills, which are often areas of difficulty for individuals with ADHD. 

While brain training may not fully reverse all ADHD cognitive issues, it offers a practical approach to improving ADHD brain function and supporting long-term cognitive development. Additionally, for individuals affected by prenatal risk ADHD, early brain training can help mitigate the brain changes associated with early developmental factors, as shown by ADHD brain imaging studies. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.   

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Brain Structure and Function.  

Complete your ADHD assessment
Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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. 

Let’s get started on something great

Sign Up for our FREE monthly medical updates. No spamming! Only the best content summary from the month on all medical topics

© 2025 My Patient Advice. All rights reserved.