Many physicians use medication, often stimulants, as their first line of defense against ADHD. Medication only treats some symptoms of ADHD and doesn't drill into the root of the disorder. Following a more holistic or whole-person treatment plan may provide more relief.
Exercise
Exercise improves concentration and mood, which is beneficial to people with ADHD. According to ADDitude magazine, exercise elevates brain chemicals that control attention and mood. Activities that require a lot of attention to be paid to body movements are particularly beneficial because they exercise the attention system as well as the body.
Diet
There isn't a perfect diet that cures ADHD, but there are things you can do to help. It isn't necessary to eliminate sugar, but balancing sugar and carbohydrates with protein can reduce rapid blood sugar spikes, reducing hyperactivity and the fatigue that follows. Additionally, incorporating a small amount of caffeine into your daily routine may improve focus and attention similar to the way that stimulant ADHD drugs do. Finally, according to Gloria Tsang, R.D., of HealthCastle.com, avoiding excessive food additives and going organic may help. Food additives may have a negative effect on concentration and focus.
Supplements
If you're looking to avoid prescription medications entirely, try substituting a few healthy supplements from the drugstore. Fish oil has proven heart health benefits and contains DHA and EPA, two essential fatty acids thought to be lacking in people with ADHD. According to the New York Times, the typical Western diet generally doesn't supply adequate amounts of these omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to fish oil, sipping chamomile tea may ease ADHD symptoms because of its calming effect on the brain, allowing for better control of attention and thought. Finally, taking an age-appropriate multivitamin keeps you well nourished and healthy, as well as fighting fatigue.
Counseling
Most psychiatrists recommend that you attend counseling with a licensed counselor as part of your ADHD treatment plan. Counseling improves your chances of successful treatment and provides a chance to vent frustrations that your friends and family members may not understand. A licensed counselor can work with you on creating budgets, schedules and other ways to work on becoming more organized, as well as helping you with your professional and personal relationships.
Meditation
According to Medical News Today, the December 2008 issue of Current Issues in Education published a study in which 10 middle school students practiced meditation twice a day in school. After three months, a 50 percent reduction in stress and anxiety was discovered, as well as an improvement in ADHD symptoms. There are many different ways to practice meditation, some taking as little as 10 minutes a day and making it easy to fit into any schedule.
