The Effects of Transcutaneous Aurıcular Vagus Stımulatıon on Sustaıned
Attentıon and Depressıon in Indıvıduals Who Are Lıkely to Have Adhd
Abstract
Aims: This study aims to evaluate the effects of transcutaneous
auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on sustained attention and
depression in individuals with suspected attention deficit hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD). Methods: Between May 1, 2022 and September 25, 2022,
the study included 60 students (9 males, 51 females; mean age: 21.11±1.6
years; range, 18 to 24 years) identified as being at high risk for
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Participants were
randomly assigned to either the intervention or control groups. Each
group consisted of 30 individuals. The intervention group received taVNS
in conjunction with mobile-assisted games and relaxation exercises,
while the control group received mobile-assisted games and relaxation
exercises alone. The data were collected using a descriptive information
form, the Beck Depression Inventory, and mobile-assisted assessment
parameters. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test,
t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test. Results: Significant differences were
observed in the intervention group concerning the sub-parameters used to
measure attention and depression scale scores; however, in the control
group, all but one of the attention sub-parameters showed significant
differences. A comparison between the two groups revealed significant
differences in reaction times and Beck Depression Inventory scores in
favor of the intervention group. Conclusion: This study revealed that
taVNS can effectively improve attention (cognitive function) and
alleviate symptoms of depression.