Exploring Non-Medication ADHD Treatments: Effective Alternatives

When ADHD is diagnosed, most people immediately look to curb the symptoms with medication. Others, however, look for alternative treatments to help curb ADHD symptoms.

About ADHD

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that affects the ability to "pay attention." The basic symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic, are inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsive behavior.

Popular Medical Treatments

• Regular ADHD treatments attempt to control levels of neurotransmitters, the brain chemicals that can cause ADHD. These treatments include antidepressants and stimulants. Adderall and Ritalin are the two most well-known regular ADHD treatments.

Behavioral Treatment

• According to HealingArts.org, behavioral therapy is one form of alternative ADHD treatment. This includes "self-monitoring" teaching and movement therapy that can help to calm ADHD.

Supplements

• Another form of alternative treatment involves herbal medicines that aim to curb the effects of (but not "cure") ADHD. This includes gingko, brahmi and green oats.

Dietary Treatment

• There are multiple diet plans that aim to help ADHD sufferers, including a carbohydrate/protein diet, the avoidance of foods with artificial coloring and a diet rich in essential fatty acids.