Safe and Sound Protocol in ADHD: good idea?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a complementary treatment for ADHD based on Polyvagal Theory. The SSP uses filtered and coded music to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve patient well-being.
The SSP is suitable for people with stress, anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD and problems with social communication. It works so broadly because it acts directly on the autonomic nervous system. An average SSP session lasts 20 minutes.
If you are looking for an effective and safe complementary treatment for ADHD, the Safe and Sound Protocol may be for you. Below is more information on exactly what the SSP is, how it works and its effectiveness.
Key points:
- The Safe and Sound Protocol is a treatment for ADHD that is based on Polyvagal theory and uses filtered and coded music.
- It is suitable for people with stress, anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD and problems with social communication.
- The SSP is a safe and painless approach that leads to long-term improvements in mood, well-being and resilience.
How does the Safe and Sound Protocol work in ADHD?
The SSP works through filtered and coded music specifically designed to calm and regulate the nervous system. It can help reduce symptoms of ADHD by improving sensory processing and reducing overstimulation. It can also help reduce anxiety and depression by promoting relaxation and calmness.
The SSP is a safe and effective treatment that can be tailored to the individual needs of the patient. It can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with other therapies.
ADHD Symptoms
ADHD can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Some common symptoms are:
- Difficulty concentrating and focusing on tasks
- Impulsivity, such as interrupting others during conversations
- Hyperactivity, such as constant moving and fidgeting
- Forgetfulness, such as losing things or forgetting appointments
- Difficulty planning and organizing tasks
Polyvagal Theory and Behavior
Polyvagal theory states that the autonomic nervous system plays an important role in behavior and emotions. This nervous system consists of three parts: the ventral vagus, the sympathetic nervous system and the dorsal vagus. The ventral vagus is involved in regulating emotions and building social connections. The sympathetic nervous system is involved in the "fight or flight" response and the dorsal vagus is involved in recovery after stressful situations.
People with ADHD are mostly in their sympathetic state and too little in their resting state. This can lead to problems regulating emotions and building social connections. The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a musical intervention designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity and encourage social engagement and resilience. It can therefore be an effective complementary treatment for people with ADHD who have problems regulating emotions and building social connections.
Polyvagal theory offers an interesting perspective on the relationship between ADHD and behavior. The Safe and Sound Protocol may be an effective treatment for people with ADHD who have problems regulating emotions and building social connections.
Treatment protocol
During the sessions, patients listen to filtered music designed to stimulate the Vagus Nerve and improve auditory processing. The music is delivered through headphones and adjusted to the patient's individual needs. The protocol is designed to train the brain to better process sounds and to calm the nervous system. By also stimulating the vagus nerve, the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) helps people with ADHD better process sensory information and regulate their emotions.
Therapy sessions
An average SSP session lasts 20 minutes. The Protocol is very flexible and can be designed in different ways. We always choose a gentle build-up in order to minimize the chance of side effects.
SSP in children
We also advise parents to listen to the SSP themselves, this helps to better connect with the child. Often being a parent of a child with ADHD is also a challenging task, where the SSP also helps the parent cope better with the busyness.
It can also be very nice for children if the parent listens in and makes it a joint activity. For example, coloring or drawing together while listening.
Research and Effectiveness
Clinical Studies
To our knowledge, no studies have yet been conducted on the influence of the SSP on ADHD. However, many other studies have been done on the effectiveness of the SSP.
On Unyte's website, however, are many case studies can be found on ADHD.
Treatment effects
The SSP is a treatment aimed at regulating the autonomic nervous system. The goal is to calm the nervous system and provide a sense of security and connectedness. This can help reduce symptoms of ADHD, such as hyperactivity, impulsivity and attention problems.
By providing more rest and bringing the body into a state of safety, the SSP is ideal for preparing for other therapies. Such as behavioral therapy or the Focus System.
Critical note
Although the results of the case studies are promising, there are also critical comments on the effectiveness of the SSP in ADHD.
It is important to emphasize that SSP is not a replacement or alternative to other forms of treatment for ADHD, such as medication and behavioral therapy. It is important to view SSP as a complementary treatment that can help reduce symptoms and improve functioning in children and adults with ADHD.
Practical Considerations
Accessibility and Cost
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a relatively new complementary treatment for ADHD and other disorders. It is worth noting that accessibility and cost may vary depending on the location and the professional offering the treatment.
You follow the SSP with us starting from 250 euros for the complete package.
We offer the SSP through our practice and online. Online, it can be taken anywhere and is easy to fit into a busy schedule. Also, it can then be done in a fun way at home so the child does not have the experience that something is wrong with them and they have to go to therapy.
What is required to take the SSP?
The Safe and Sound Protocol uses over or on-ear headphones and an app for Android or iOS to perform the treatment. It is important to note that not all headphones are compatible with the protocol. It is important that the headphones do not adjust the music. Noisecancelling and any other filters should therefore be able to be turned off. If in doubt, always contact us. The software needed for the treatment can be downloaded on a phone or tablet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can the Safe and Sound Protocol help treat ADHD?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a program specifically designed to help people feel permanently calmer and safer. It uses specially processed music to regulate the nervous system, calm and reduce stress. It can be especially helpful for people who have experienced a lot of stress or unpleasant experiences. In ADHD patients, it can work in conjunction with another therapy to help improve attention and concentration, and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
What are the main benefits of using SSP for individuals with ADHD?
The main benefits of using SSP for individuals with ADHD include:
- Improved attention and concentration
- Reduction of hyperactivity and impulsivity
- Increased peace and calmness
- Reduction of stress and anxiety
- Makes other therapies work better.
How long does SSP treatment for ADHD last?
The average period that people use the SSP is three months. That is more than enough to listen to SSP Core twice and Balance in between. As much listening as possible is done daily with a maximum of 20 minutes per day. Listening is done according to a schedule with detailed instructions. The listening schedule can always be adjusted to what best suits the client's needs and developments.
Are there specific age groups that would benefit more from the SSP?
There is no specific age group that benefits more from the SSP. The program can be effective for both children and adults with ADHD.
What are the possible side effects or risks associated with using the SSP for ADHD?
There are few side effects or risks associated with using SSP for ADHD. Some people experience temporary worsening of symptoms or fatigue after listening to the music. It is important to work with a qualified professional to use the program safely and effectively.
Summary:
People with ADHD may have problems regulating their emotions and behavior, often as a result of the activation of the central nervous system's fight-or-flight response due to external stressors and demands. The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an auditory therapy that helps bring the nervous system into a parasympathetic state, promoting a sense of safety and calmness. This protocol is widely used by mental health professionals as adjunctive therapy to help their patients regulate and process external stimuli and signals more effectively. Once the patient's nervous system has reached this calmer state, their brain and nervous system are better prepared to respond to other treatments, such as the Focus System and behavioral therapies.
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