ADHD and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is used in a range of neurological and recovery settings. It is sometimes explored as a supportive option by people with ADHD who are looking to improve focus, attention, and overall wellbeing.
At our Hertfordshire-based therapy centre, we provide access to oxygen therapy in a safe, controlled environment. Many people come to us alongside existing ADHD treatments, looking for additional support.
Potential benefits of Oxygen Therapy for ADHD may include:
- Improved focus and concentration
- Reduced impulsivity and restlessness
- Better mental clarity
- Support for cognitive function
- Increased energy levels
- Improved overall wellbeing
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults.
It impacts how the brain manages attention, behaviour, and impulse control — particularly in areas such as the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for focus, decision-making, and self-regulation.
According to the NHS, ADHD can affect concentration, organisation, and daily functioning at school, work, and home.
Symptoms of ADHD
Important: ADHD should always be diagnosed by a qualified healthcare professional. If you suspect ADHD, speak to your GP or a specialist.
ADHD presents differently from person to person, but common symptoms include:
Inattention:
- Difficulty maintaining focus
- Easily distracted
- Forgetfulness in daily activities
- Struggling to complete tasks
- Poor organisation
Hyperactivity & Impulsivity:
- Restlessness or constant movement
- Talking excessively
- Acting without thinking
- Difficulty waiting or taking turns
- Interrupting others
Combined Type:
- A mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms (most common)
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Support ADHD
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing oxygen in a pressurised chamber. This allows oxygen to dissolve more effectively into the bloodstream and reach areas of the brain that may be operating less efficiently.
As explained by University of Michigan Health, HBOT increases the amount of oxygen your blood can carry, helping to support tissue repair and overall function.
While research into ADHD specifically is still developing, there are several ways HBOT is thought to support brain function:
- Increased oxygen delivery to the brain: Supporting areas involved in attention and behaviour regulation
- Improved blood flow: Some evidence suggests reduced blood flow in key brain regions linked to focus
- Support for neuroplasticity: Helping the brain adapt, repair, and form new connections
- Reduced neuroinflammation: Inflammation in the brain is increasingly linked to cognitive and behavioural conditions
Together, these effects may help support better focus, emotional regulation, and mental clarity in some individuals.
Potential Benefits for ADHD
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is not a replacement for medical treatment, but it may provide additional support alongside existing ADHD management strategies.
Some individuals choose to explore Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy alongside their existing ADHD management. Potential benefits that are sometimes discussed in relation to oxygen therapy include:
- Improved concentration: Better ability to stay focused on tasks
- Reduced impulsivity: Greater control over reactions and behaviour
- Calmer mood: Less restlessness and agitation
- Enhanced cognitive function: Improvements in memory, processing, and clarity
- Better day-to-day functioning: Support with school, work, and routines
- Increased energy and motivation
Some therapy providers, such as HBOT Chicago, report that individuals may experience improvements in attention, mood, and overall cognitive performance following consistent sessions.
Results can vary, and benefits are often linked to consistency over time.
Try Oxygen Therapy for ADHD
If you or your child has ADHD and you’re exploring additional support, we’re here to help.
As a registered charity based in Hertfordshire, we provide access to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in a safe, supportive environment. We welcome individuals and families from across the local area.
You do not need a referral to get in touch.
We’re happy to answer your questions and help you decide if HBOT is right for you.
Research into ADHD & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Research into HBOT and ADHD is ongoing, and interest is growing within both medical and therapy communities.
While there are currently limited large-scale studies focused specifically on ADHD, research in related neurological and cognitive conditions — including brain injury, autism, and mood disorders — has shown promising results.
These findings suggest that increased oxygen delivery may:
- Improve brain activity in areas linked to attention and behaviour
- Support cognitive performance and memory
- Help regulate inflammation and support neurological function
Therapy providers such as Valley Hyperbarics highlight the role of oxygen therapy in supporting brain function through improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and enhanced neuroplasticity.
At the same time, it’s important to recognise that HBOT is still considered a complementary therapy, not a primary treatment for ADHD. Balanced perspectives, such as those shared by O2Genes, emphasise that more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness for ADHD.
References
- NHS – ADHD in Adults overview
- NHS – ADHD in Children & Teenagers overview
- University of Michigan Health – Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy overview
- HBOT Chicago – ADHD & cognitive support
- Valley Hyperbarics – ADHD & HBOT mechanisms
- The Health Suite – HBOT & brain function
- O2Genes – HBOT and ADHD evidence overview
ADHD & Oxygen Therapy FAQs
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is generally considered safe when delivered in a controlled environment by trained professionals. At our centre, sessions are supervised and follow established safety procedures. If you have any medical conditions or concerns, we recommend discussing these with your GP before starting.
Yes, many therapy centres provide Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for both children and adults. We regularly support families exploring additional options for managing ADHD. Each person is different, so we’re happy to talk through suitability before booking.
No. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is not a replacement for prescribed ADHD medication or medical treatment. It is considered a complementary therapy that may be used alongside existing care.
Some people report changes after a number of sessions, while others may not notice a significant difference. Consistency is usually more important than a single session.
Research is still developing. Some studies in related neurological conditions suggest HBOT may support brain function, but it is not currently a primary treatment for ADHD.
No referral is needed. You can contact us directly to ask questions or arrange an appointment