First Advisor
Bill Griesar
Date of Award
Spring 6-16-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology and University Honors
Department
Psychology
Language
English
Subjects
neuroscience, mental health, ADHD, neurodivergence, education, ADHD treatment
Abstract
Neuroscience-based educational interventions play a role in the management of Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), including the regulation of ADHD-correlated depression and anxiety. Existing research shows that elevated rates of depression correspond to anxiety within the ADHD community; approximately 8.83% of the global population (Song et al., 2021). Social ostracization and isolation are established contributors to depression and anxiety which are commonly comorbid with ADHD (Schoeman & Voges, 2022). The need exists for further investigation of the beneficial impact that an accurate, biological understanding of how the brain works has on the mental health of the ADHD population, and by extension their families, education systems, and medical industries.
Poorer health outcomes disproportionately affect low income, racial/ethnic minority groups, and otherwise marginalized populations through misdiagnosis as well as a lack of recognition of ADHD symptoms, which are barriers to treatment and mental health management (Cénat et al., 2020)(Keilow et al, 2020)(McAllister, 2020). In this thesis, I examine literature on various cognitive interventions that are effective supplemental treatments for symptoms of ADHD and management of comorbid depression and anxiety (Hamilton & Petty, 2023). I accompany this research with first-hand observations from active, longitudinal work with the nonprofit neuroscience outreach organization, Northwest Noggin. The methods they employ exemplify how this neuroscience-based educational intervention combines aspects of biology and psychology with art in order to engage with predominantly low-income communities, promoting current and ongoing scientific research that dispels commonly held misconceptions about the brain, thereby increasing self-awareness within the ADHD population.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Kadi Rae, "The Role of Neuroscience in Mental Health Management Within the ADHD Population" (2025). University Honors Theses. Paper 1622.
Included in
Behavioral Neurobiology Commons, Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms Commons, Cognition and Perception Commons, Community-Based Learning Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Inequality and Stratification Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Other Neuroscience and Neurobiology Commons