Floating Away: ADHD
- spin22
- Mar 27, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 5

In a world brimming with distractions, individuals diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often find themselves navigating an intricate web of challenges in their daily lives. While traditional treatments like medication and therapy are commonly sought, alternative methods are also gaining attention. One such unconventional approach is the use of float tanks. Let's delve into how float tanks could potentially offer respite for those with ADHD.
The ADHD Challenge:
ADHD is characterised by symptoms such as impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity, which can significantly impact daily functioning. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with sensory overload, finding it challenging to filter out distractions and maintain focus on tasks.
How Can Float Tanks Help?
Here are some of the key benefits that a session in a float tank might provide
Sensory Reduction: The environment inside a float tank eliminates external stimuli, providing a break from the sensory overload experienced in daily life. Without distractions, some individuals with ADHD can experience a sense of calm and mental clarity. By removing external distractions, it forces internal focus, similar to mindfulness meditation.
Deep Relaxation: Floating induces a state of profound relaxation, triggering the body's relaxation response and reducing levels of stress hormones like cortisol. For individuals with ADHD, who may often feel tense or restless, this relaxation can be particularly beneficial.
Enhanced Focus and Mindfulness: The meditative state facilitated by float tanks can improve attentional control and mindfulness. As individuals float weightlessly, they are encouraged to focus on their breath and bodily sensations, honing their ability to stay present and focused.
Dopamine Regulation: Some research suggests that floatation therapy may influence neurotransmitter activity, including dopamine regulation. Dopamine plays a crucial role in attention and motivation, and dysregulation is implicated in ADHD. By potentially modulating dopamine levels, float tanks could offer therapeutic benefits for individuals with ADHD.

Stress Management: Chronic stress is common among individuals with ADHD and can exacerbate symptoms. Float tanks provide a sanctuary for stress relief, allowing individuals to unwind and recharge both mentally and physically.
Will A Float Help Me?
Individuals with ADHD should consult with healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their needs. Nonetheless, the profound relaxation and sensory reduction experienced in float tanks can provide valuable reprieve for those navigating the complexities of ADHD. As research in this area continues to evolve, floatation therapy may emerge as a valuable tool in the holistic management of ADHD.
Reviews From Our Customers
"This is my second visit to the Bristol Float Centre my first was only 3 weeks before. All I can say is it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done. The staff are great, they are enthusiastic, calm and empathetic. Which is the cherry on the top of the whole experience.
It’s pretty much the only thing that switches me off. As someone with ADHD I initially thought that an hour would be too much, if anything it isn’t enough. When the lights come on and I hear the chime, I really don’t want to get out.
ADHD or not, if you are able to do this then please try it." - Nick W
"I really recommend floating for anyone suffering from overstimulation or sensory overload! It took me a while to relax but after about 10 minutes I felt like I was on some sort of half-asleep state and the hour went by too quickly! I also recommend leaving the lights and music on until they’ve completed their cycle as this really helped to relax. Afterwards I was so blissed out and calm :-)" - Faye P