Adhd Guide

Alternative Treatments for ADHD

Many folks with ADHD or whose children have ADHD are not comfortable with the prospect of taking conventional medication for their condition. Fortunately, there are alternatives. These include psychotherapy and behavioral management, diet and nutrition, herbal and homeopathic remedies, and EEG Biofeedback.

Behavioral management has traditionally been used as a backup to conventional medication. This includes teaching self-monitoring techniques and ensuring the learning or work environment is as conducive as possible to the individuals needs without alienating them. There is also therapy available for individuals and families to help them learn how to work together to manage the ADHD and to discuss any psychological repercussions that may arise from having the disorder.

Altering and controlling diet and nutrition have been proven to have a significant effect as a treatment for ADHD. First, we all know that sugar can lead to hyperactivity in any child, as can simple carbohydrates. On the other hand, proteins help to even out energy levels and improve focus. Studies have shown that deficiencies in vitamins and minerals may play a role in ADHD. Particularly, lower levels of essential fatty acids, chiefly Omega-3 fatty acids, are present in children with behavioral problems and ADHD. There is also evidence that food sensitivities and allergies can play a role. The quality of our diet is definitely in question these days and many of our health problems stem from this, so it is important to take a serious look at the possible role diet plays in your or your child’s ADHD.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies for ADHD have been shown to be an effective treatment. People have reported significant results from taking herbal remedies. It is very important to research the herbal remedies very well, because the manufacturers of herbal remedies do not have to stick to the same strict guidelines as drug manufacturers. However, herbal remedies have been used for centuries and are often very beneficial. One homeopathic remedy for children with proven results is BrightSpark (Focus ADDult for teenagers and adults). Caution needs to be exercised when choosing and using an herbal remedy because it can still react with certain foods or other medications, although it will not give the severe side effects conventional medication can. Consult with your doctor or a naturopathic physician before using herbal remedies.

EEG Biofeedback is a form of treatment that is gaining recognition as an alternative to medication. It is a form of therapy that, when used to treat ADHD, teaches people how to stimulate the frontal lobe of their brains so that they can then increase their ability to concentrate. This treatment has been shown to either reduce or remove the need for stimulant medication in individuals with ADHD.

Ultimately, as with conventional medications, you need to know where your comfort level is and weigh the degree of severity of the ADHD diagnosed against possible treatment options. Often times the symptoms of ADHD can be effectively managed with little or no conventional medication. Usually no one method will produce the desired effects, but a combination of proper nutrition, natural remedies, behavioral guidance, and loving support and structure will go a long way to reducing the symptoms of ADHD, allowing you or your child to live with little or no need for conventional medication.