Instead of using stimulant medication, some adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder seek natural treatment methods. The Mayo Clinic reports that there are alternatives to medications, although there is little evidence to prove their effectiveness. Symptoms of ADHD that are unresolved should be brought to your physician's attention.
Omega-3
Omega-3 is made up of fatty acids that the brain requires to function properly. Found mainly in fatty fish such as salmon and sardines, and also available as a supplement, omega-3 may have some benefit in treating ADHD, though more research is needed. A 2009 study from the American Psychological Association reported in the journal Behavioral Neuroscience provides some evidence that connects low levels of omega-3 fatty acids to the information-processing problems that occur in ADHD, obsessive compulsive disorder, and in other conditions of the nervous system.
Regular Exercise
Exercising regularly may ease ADHD symptoms through the release of chemicals in the brain that increase focus and attention, including norepinephrine and serotonin. According to Dr. John Ratey, an expert on ADHD and author of the book, "Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain," the increase in dopamine and norepinephrine from exercise may result in improved ability to focus attention and function at school and work, though more research in this area is needed.
Behavioral Coaching
Professionals trained in ADHD can help you change habits that are causing problems and teach you new skills to cope with symptoms. Behavioral coaching can be a valuable part of treatment. Coaching focuses solely on practical solutions to everyday problems. Behavioral coaches teach strategies for structuring the day, organizing your work area and home, and managing money. Other therapies offer help reducing stress and controlling impulsive behaviors.
The Mayo clinic advises adults with ADHD to make lists of tasks that need to be done, write notes to remember important things, maintain a planning calendar to track deadlines and appointments, set up a system to organize and file information and to follow a consistent daily routine.
Sleep
Many people with ADHD report difficulty sleeping. Some tips for getting better sleep include limiting daytime napping, exercising regularly, having a set bedtime, avoiding caffeine later in the day and engaging in only quiet activities within a couple of hours of going to bed.
A study by Dr. Arthur S. Walters, investigating the link between ADHD and sleep disorders published in the December 2008 Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, concluded that adults with ADHD should have sleep disorders treated because better sleep could lead to improvement of ADHD symptoms.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Alternative Medicine
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Other Treatments
- EurekAlert: New Study Links DHA Type of Omega-3 to Better Nervous-System Function
- Helpguide: ADD/ADHD Treatment and Help
- PubMed Central: Review of the Possible Relationship and Hypothetical Links Between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and the Simple Sleep Related Movement Disorders, Parasomnias, Hypersomnias, and Circadian Rhythm Disorders
