....by David Thomason, Psy.D., M.P.

When I began practicing psychology in 1983, parents expressed concern when I recommended Ritalin as a viable treatment for ADHD.  One of the concerns was that a stimulant might cause addiction.  Although it has become clear that there is a strong neurological basis to chemical dependency, Ritalin and other stimulant medications remain primary mainstream treatments for ADHD.

The executive center of the brain, located in the frontal area, has been studied extensively in both ADHD and addictive disorders.  The executive center inhibits impulsive behavior.  In ADHD, and when under the influence of addictive substances, the executive center is malfunctioning.  It is also a part of the brain that is especially sensitive to stress, trauma, toxins, and nutritional deficiency.

Alternative treatment approaches for ADHD are gaining in popularity.  The nutritional approach emphases avoidance of refined sugar, preservatives, gluten, and dairy.  Ample amounts of Omega 3 fish oil, especially DHA, B complex, and phosphatidylserine are recommended.

Yoga uses physical postures, breathing exercises, and deep relaxation techniques to calm and strengthen the central nervous system.  People with ADHD lack self-awareness.  By emphasizing physiological self-perception, yoga strengthens self-awareness.  Creative potential in those with ADHD often goes unfulfilled because they can’t organize their creativity.  Movement in patterns helps establish structure through repetition of yoga.

Neurofeedback is computerized training that teaches how to recognize and control brain waves.  Those with ADHD have higher rates of theta waves and lower rates of beta waves.  These higher rates of theta waves are associated with low stimulation and inattentiveness.  And lower rates of beta waves are associated with poor concentration and inattention.  Neurofeedback produces results which tend to last over a long period of time.  It is generally available in the office of a qualified psychologist or neurologist.

All of these alternative approaches ultimately have a positive affect on neurotransmitters in the brain.  The neurotransmitter which has been linked to ADHD is dopamine.  When using an alternative approach, be prepared for the change in the neurotransmitter to take a much longer time than when using a pharmaceutical intervention.  However, beneficial life style changes are initiated with all these approaches.

Dr. David Thomason has advanced training in psychology, medicine and accupuncture.  His practice is located in Monroe, LA where he works with both children and adults.

http://www.drdavidthomason.com