Four million American children are currently diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and more than half of these children are medicated. From 2000 to 2003, the use of prescription drugs, such as Ritalin and Adderall rose 23 percent to treat ADD/ADHD and that number is even higher today.

Treating ADD/ADHD in a holistic manner is beneficial for children.  Optimizing and balancing the nervous, organ and energetic systems allows children’s bodies and minds to function more cohesively.

Research has shown there are advantages to treating ADD/ADHD holistically and the benefits are numerous.  Effective treaments include cognitive therapy, diet modification and aromatherapy to holistically treat children’s ADD/ADHD symptoms.

Below are a techniques and holistic treatments for ADD/ADHD. Combined with parental involvement these have been proven beneficial.

Behavioral Therapy   This form of therapy is the number one alternative to medication. The approach requires an experienced therapist who can teach specific techniques to children and parents, such as setting goals and providing rewards and consequences. For example, a parent sets a goal for the child to have homework finished by dinner time; if the child meets the goal they are rewarded with their favorite dinner. Behavioral therapy, combined with parents’ dedication to help, improves the child’s symptoms and provides them with a healthy communication platform to discuss their feelings.

Focus Energy Constructively  When a child with ADD/ADHD focuses their energy constructively, it increases attention span and helps the child remain calm while releasing excess energy. Enroll children in an athletic or dance class or provide them with activities such as playing outside. This provides the opportunity to release their energy in a positive way and not become negatively distracted. Educational games such as Memory or Minesweeper computer game can also be helpful in increasing memorization skills and help children learn to focus.
 
Proper Nutrition  Nutritional balance is essential. A proper diet for a child who displays ADD/ADHD symptoms will support the growth of the child, stabilize their energy and provide a healthier, more focused mind. Essential key nutrients are fatty acids, vitamin B, calcium and magnesium, and can be attained in nutrient rich foods and supplements. Seeking the advice of a professional in the beginning is important. Dr. Lee advises parents with children who display symptoms of ADD/ADHD to avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates or sugars to reduce hyperactivity and increase memory and focus.


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