ADHD headband aims to boost focus via 20 mins use per day

An Australian startup, Neurode, have developed a headband to help individuals with ADHD improve focus, impulse control, and memory.

From Superinnovators 20/09/24

After opening a private beta testing programme for 100 people in May, last week they announced a second beta testing cohort, inviting people to sign up for access via their website.

According to the company, this device, also called Neurode, uses a personalised dose of non-invasive brain stimulation to balance underactivity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), which is associated with ADHD symptoms.

The headset works by applying mild electrical signals that help neurons in the PFC reach their activation threshold, boosting executive functions like attention and impulse control.

Unlike traditional ADHD medication, Neurode’s approach aims to target specific areas of the brain, thereby minimising side effects.

The device also incorporates real-time brain imaging technology called functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to monitor and track changes in blood oxygenation via an app, offering users insight into their brain activity over time.

Users are advised to wear the headband for 20 minutes daily, with Neurode claiming that regular use can lead to neuroplastic changes, strengthening neural connections.

The startup highlights the limitations of ADHD medications, including side effects and difficulties in targeting specific brain areas, as a reason for pursuing their brain stimulation approach.

Neurode also provides an AI assistant named Rae to help users manage overwhelm and track their daily progress in managing symptoms.

The company say their device offers a drug-free alternative that could be more convenient than regular appointments and medication shortages.

Can you tell when he’s focused vs. distracted? We can!

Neurode uses fNIRS to monitor brain activity, and can tell when your PFC is active to support focus, memory etc, and when you’re likely distracted.

Join our waitlist to try it in our private Beta! https://t.co/kiTuX5FKBE pic.twitter.com/K1tJ4Wxssm

— Nathalie Gouailhardou (@nathaliegou) August 4, 2024