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Disclaimer: It is important to note that you need to consult a mental healthcare professional before starting any form of treatment for ADHD. Alternative treatment options do not mean treating the disorder yourself without any expert guidance or support.
ADHD, which stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, influences the lives of many young children. Though stimulant medications may help, most parents look for treatment options beyond medications. Changes in lifestyle and therapy options are a good way to manage ADHD, but we suggest you to consult a mental healthcare professional before starting the treatment.
In this blog, we delve into numerous lifestyle adjustments and therapies as alternative treatments for children with ADHD – without relying only on medication.
Professionally Treating ADHD Without Medication
Behavioural Therapy
For children grappling with severe ADHD, behavioural therapy stands out as a great way to manage the condition without medication. An important part of Behavioral therapy is behavioural modification. This technique targets specific problematic behaviours and develops adaptive behaviors. This might involve setting goals and rules for the child.
Parents play a central role in their child's ADHD journey. Parental therapy equips caregivers with tools to navigate challenges effectively, reaping long-term benefits. Empowering parents with strategies to handle behavioural obstacles significantly aids the child's overall development.
Discovering the right psychologist who's not only skilled but also a good fit for your needs is essential when seeking behavioural therapy. No worries – we're here to help! At Rocket Health, we've got your back with top-notch psychologists specialising in ADHD treatment for kids.
Embark on this journey today by scheduling a consultation with our expert therapists – it's the first step toward supporting your child's well-being.
Give EEG Biofeedback a shot
EEG biofeedback has some potential in the treatment of ADHD. It is a form of Neurotherapy that gauges brain waves.
During a session, a child can join in a special video game. Picture a task like "steering the spaceship through obstacles." If their focus slips, the spaceship might go off track or the screen could dim. This interactive game helps them learn fresh focusing skills, making it easier for children to spot and manage their symptoms.
How to Treat ADHD Child at Home?
Good Sleep Hygiene
Good sleep holds exceptional significance for children, especially those with ADHD. Several studies show that sleep problems are associated with at least 25-50% of individuals who have ADHD. Notably, a subset of children with ADHD might also be prone to co-occurring sleep disorders, a dual challenge that amplifies both conditions. For example, if a child has difficulty calming down before bedtime, it can take them longer to fall asleep. This can lead to feeling more tired the next day, which can make their ADHD symptoms worse.
To foster constructive sleep habits, the following strategies are recommended:
Consistent Sleep Schedule:
Maintain consistent sleep timings throughout the week, encompassing both weekdays and weekends.
Optimal Sleep Environment:
Ensure the sleeping area is conducive to rest by regulating darkness and temperature.
Mitigate Blue Light Exposure:
Minimise exposure to electronic screens, such as televisions and computers, at least two hours before bedtime.
Incorporate Calming Rituals:
Integrate soothing practices, such as bedtime stories, to facilitate the transition to sleep.
By carefully following these strategies, better sleep quality can lead to potentially managing ADHD symptoms effectively.
Engaging in Unstructured Play
Unstructured play is incredibly important for all kids, going beyond just being active. Especially for children with ADHD, creative play is a big deal as it helps them learn important skills. During unstructured play, they figure things out on their own and make friends. Here's what you should know:
Independent Exploration:
Unstructured play empowers children to navigate challenges on their own, enhancing their problem-solving abilities.
Social Development:
Interaction during playtime nurtures the building of social relationships, a crucial skill for children with ADHD.
Encouraging your child to engage in activities like bike riding, running, or playing with peers in safe environments can be highly beneficial. Similarly, during playdates, allowing them the space to interact independently can foster growth. Exploring programs that prioritise and facilitate independent play can further augment these benefits.
Changes in Diet
Disclaimer: Consult a mental healthcare professional to get a detailed idea about the diet plan you can follow. There is no evidence that suggests that a change in diet can treat a child’s ADHD.
There has been some research about the diet plans. As per the National Library of Medicine, some foods with preservatives and colouring could make hyperactivity worse, but only up to a certain point. Examples of these include sodium benzoate, often found in fruit juices, and carbonated beverages, and various food colourings such as yellow numbers 5, 6, and 10, and red no. 40, utilised in a range of products from sorbets to soft drinks.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and ADHD Symptoms
In addition to mindful dietary exclusions, introducing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids could offer potential benefits. Omega-3s from sources like soy products, flaxseeds, walnuts, and fish such as salmon might assist in reducing ADHD symptoms. However, it's crucial to note that using supplements for this purpose isn't currently recommended.
Experts emphasise that prioritising a well-rounded diet featuring whole grains, fish, ample fruits and vegetables, and reducing sugary foods remains a more essential dietary approach for children with ADHD.
Being Outdoors
Allocating time for outdoor activities can yield significant advantages for children with ADHD. There is good evidence that suggests that outdoor engagement can enhance their concentration, with natural surroundings and green spaces offering the most pronounced benefits.
The potential for positive effects on attention and well-being underscores the importance of incorporating outdoor time into the routine of children with ADHD. It's a simple yet impactful way to promote their cognitive and emotional development.
Navigating the challenges of parenting a child with ADHD can be quite a journey. We understand that every child is one-of-a-kind and requires a tailored approach. With the expert team of mental health professionals at Rocket Health, you can craft a treatment plan that perfectly suits your child's needs online. Click on the button below to book your consultation today.
Resources
- Newmark, S. (2023, August 10). 5 Big Natural Remedies for ADHD: Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep & More. ADDitude. https://www.additudemag.com/natural-remedies-adhd-children-nutrition-exercise-sleep/#:~:text=Whether%20they%20take%20medication%20or,these%20ADHD%20treatments%20and%20more
- Helping Children with ADHD Focus Without Medication: 7 Tips for Parents. (2022, August 18). Resources to Recover. https://www.rtor.org/2021/05/03/helping-children-with-adhd-focus-without-medication-tips-for-parents/
- Story, C. M. (2023, March 14). 6 Natural Remedies for ADHD. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/natural-remedies#neuropathy
- Wajszilber, D., Santiseban, J. A., & Gruber, R. (2018, December 1). Sleep disorders in patients with ADHD: impact and management challenges. Nature and Science of Sleep; Dove Medical Press. https://doi.org/10.2147/nss.s163074
- Google Scholar. (n.d.). https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?journal=Child+Adolesc+Psychiatr+Clin+N+Am&title=Sleep+characteristics+of+children+and+adolescents+with+attention+deficit-hyperactivity+disorder&author=R+Gruber&volume=18&issue=4&publication_year=2009&pages=863-876&pmid=19836693&
- McCann, D. C., Barrett, A., Cooper, A., Crumpler, D., Dalen, L., Grimshaw, K., Kitchin, E., Lok, K. Y. W., Porteous, L. E., Prince, E. B., Sonuga-Barke, E., Warner, J. O., & Stevenson, J. (2007, November 1). Food additives and hyperactive behaviour in 3-year-old and 8/9-year-old children in the community: a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet; Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(07)61306-3
- Bos, D. J., Oranje, B., Veerhoek, E. S., Van Diepen, R. M., Weusten, J., Demmelmair, H., Koletzko, B., De Sain-Van Der Velden, M. G., Eilander, A., Hoeksma, M., & Durston, S. (2015, March 19). Reduced Symptoms of Inattention after Dietary Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Boys with and without Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology; Nature Portfolio. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2015.73
- Del-Ponte, B., Quinte, G. C., Da Cruz, S. H., Grellert, M., & Santos, I. S. (2019, June 1). Dietary patterns and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders; Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2019.04.061
- Kim, Y., & Hyeja, C. (2011, January 1). Correlation between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and sugar consumption, quality of diet, and dietary behavior in school children. Nutrition Research and Practice. https://doi.org/10.4162/nrp.2011.5.3.236
- Kuo, F. E., & Taylor, A. F. (2004, September 1). A Potential Natural Treatment for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Evidence From a National Study. American Journal of Public Health; American Public Health Association. https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.94.9.1580
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