Medication and behavioral therapy are among the primary therapies for ADHD; however, other alternatives may also provide relief, such as diet, supplements, neurofeedback training or working memory training.
This study asked participants if they have ever used complementary and/or alternative medicine (CAM) to treat ADHD symptoms, as well as whether their choice of therapy related to having been officially diagnosed, sex status, or severity of symptoms.
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is an alternative therapy that trains individuals to focus on the present moment while tuning in to bodily sensations, thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness has been associated with positive physical outcomes such as lower blood pressure and cardiovascular health improvements, weight loss and recovery from chronic illness. Furthermore, mindfulness improves control attention spans and the way one reacts to stressful experiences – two challenges faced daily by people living with ADHD.
Mindful meditation takes many forms, but in essence involves training an individual to observe his/her own wandering thoughts and redirect them back on task. Although mindful meditation takes practice to master, its benefits for ADHD sufferers can make sitting still and doing nothing easier over time. Practice makes perfect: the more one meditates the easier it becomes!
Studies have demonstrated that acute mindfulness meditation improves working memory in children with ADHD. Researchers believe this may be because mindfulness meditation decreases activity of a brain network that includes the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex and inferior parietal lobule; typically active when at rest but inactive when performing tasks.
Mindful meditation practice has the ability to affect this region of the brain in several ways that could hinder cognitive flexibility–the ability to quickly switch gears between tasks requiring working memory, attention, or executive functions–such as moving between working memory, attention, or executive functioning skills. Research also indicates that mindful meditation thickens prefrontal cortexes while raising levels of dopamine, an important chemical involved in focus, planning, and impulse control.
Mindfulness meditation requires regular practice to build strength and endurance. The key is finding an approach that feels natural and fits seamlessly into your schedule; overdoing it could result in burnout. Some people with ADHD find taking short meditation breaks (even walking around their block!) can help them unwind more quickly while feeling less distracted, while for others formal meditation practices with trained instructors and weekly sessions may prove more successful.
Yoga
Millions of children worldwide struggle with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), making it hard for them to focus and regulate their emotions. While counseling and medication may help, alternative therapies like yoga may provide greater peace, connection, and focus for kids who suffer from ADHD symptoms. One such therapy is yoga which combines mind-body exercise with meditation for relaxation – studies show that children who practice yoga are better at managing their ADHD symptoms than those who don’t practice it regularly.
Yoga is a mind-body practice that incorporates meditation, breathing exercises, and physical postures to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and promote rest-and-digest mode in the body. Studies have demonstrated its efficacy at decreasing impulsivity and restlessness associated with ADHD symptoms as well as improving balance and flexibility for daily living needs of individuals with ADHD.
Yoga may be helpful in treating adults with ADHD, but other natural treatments may also offer relief. Many have tried supplements, herbal remedies and acupuncture – all designed to promote mental and physical wellbeing – although before beginning any new regimen it’s advisable to consult a physician first and also discuss symptoms with supervisors, teachers and co-workers so accommodations may be made to help you succeed at work or school.
EEG biofeedback, a form of neurotherapy that measures brain waves, can also provide natural treatment. Patients playing EEG biofeedback sessions typically play video games that require them to focus on tasks such as keeping a plane flying. If their concentration falters, either it dives or the screen goes dark prompting them to learn how to increase focus. This technique has proven particularly successful for children with ADHD as it’s inexpensive and easily implemented in classroom environments.
Another form of exercise available to people with ADHD is yoga, a mind-body practice designed to strengthen balance and coordination. A study revealed that children practicing twice weekly yoga experienced increased focus and reaction time as it increases brain’s ability to respond to sensory stimuli while decreasing distractions. Yoga can also boost mood and decrease anxiety commonly found among those living with ADHD.
Counseling
Counseling may also help address ADHD symptoms when medication does not. Counselors can teach patients the skills needed to effectively manage and cope with life challenges which may contribute to symptoms like anxiety or depression, while cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which teaches individuals how to change negative thinking patterns into more constructive ones, often forms part of this treatment program.
Counseling services also encompass family and marital therapy, which teaches loved ones how to assist those living with ADHD. Such counseling may help reduce conflict at home while improving communication and creating new coping mechanisms.
Many adults living with ADHD opt for natural therapies as an alternative to conventional medical approaches, such as supplements or herbal remedies. Before considering such alternatives, however, it’s wise to consult a medical provider first – they can advise the best course of action to address their ADHD.
As well as counseling, some individuals with ADHD also turn to meditation or exercise in an attempt to manage their condition. Meditation and exercise both stimulate brain activity and increase alertness; regular breaks from meditation may also help keep one focused. One study showed that participants who meditated for 20 minutes daily reported improved concentration and decreased impulsiveness compared to those who didn’t practice this habit.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and neurofeedback may also provide alternative treatments for ADHD. CBT helps individuals develop coping strategies to better manage their ADHD and other mental health disorders, and identify and stop unhealthy behaviors like substance abuse or self-harm. Neurofeedback uses computer software to measure and monitor brainwave activity – it has long-term benefits while remaining noninvasive; however, its cost may prohibit some people.
ADHD sufferers can seek assistance from co-workers and teachers at work or school. While it might be embarrassing to bring it up in conversation, most will be willing to make accommodations that improve performance and productivity. Medication remains the best treatment method; however, combined with alternative therapies or behavioral therapy it can often provide better results.
Classes
Parenting, educational and behavioral therapies may help manage ADHD effectively. While medications may also be prescribed, alternative therapies often yield better results. When considering alternative therapies as part of treatment plans it’s wise to first speak to your physician; they will be able to inform you of potential risks involved and discuss potential benefits that go along with each treatment option.
Behavioral therapy is often recommended as the initial course of treatment for children with ADHD, with its primary goal to help equip kids with the tools they need to succeed at school – such as studying, taking notes and managing their time – by teaching these essential skills. Children who participate in behavioral therapy tend to perform better academically compared with those who don’t, while parents learn to advocate on behalf of their child to secure services and accommodations they may require at school such as an Individualized Education Plan or Section 504 plan.
Many children with ADHD do well in school but struggle at home, having difficulty keeping track of assignments and remembering what needs to be done. Educational therapists work with children with ADHD to teach them tools such as planners or reward systems to stay organized with assignments and responsibilities; additionally they may provide organizational skills or coping mechanisms to avoid distractions at home and school.
Counseling services for adults with ADHD can also be highly beneficial, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT teaches people how to change negative thought patterns that contribute to symptoms while also helping manage stressors such as work or relationship difficulties. Marital/couples therapy sessions may be offered to improve communication skills and conflict resolution strategies.
Physical activity has also been shown to help ease symptoms of ADHD. Exercise stimulates the brain, increasing levels of certain chemicals that stimulate alertness. Furthermore, it reduces anxiety and depression that often accompany ADHD; its benefits become particularly evident when performed outdoors and away from screens such as televisions, computers or video games. EEG biofeedback provides valuable feedback on brain wave patterns so patients can learn to manage them for improved attention and impulse control.
