Are there alternative treatments available for Children?

Parents often hear reports of “miracle cures” for ADHD on television, in magazines, or in advertisements. Most of these treatments have not been shown by research to be ineffective for ADHD, some are expensive, and some may even be harmful.

Some of the more prevalent, yet unproven, treatments for ADHD are special diets, herbal supplements, homeopathic treatments, vision therapy, chiropractic adjustments, metronome training, auditory stimulation, applied kinesiology (realigning bones in the skull), brain wave training, and neurobiofeedback.

While parents remain optimistic about the efficacy of alternative, non-medication treatments, rigorous scientific research does not support that these alternatives are effective at managing ADHD symptoms. Research has shown that children with ADHD benefit from a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and low-fat proteins, as well as daily activity outdoors. It is important to note that while a healthy diet and regular exercise may help with overall health and well-being, they are not considered alternative treatments for ADHD. Rather, they are important components of a healthy lifestyle that may complement other ADHD treatments.

In addition to therapy, there are some alternative treatments that may be worth considering as adjuncts to medication and therapy. For example, mindfulness meditation has been shown to be effective in reducing ADHD symptoms, and yoga has been shown to improve attention and reduce hyperactivity in children with ADHD. 

Although therapy alone has not been proven to be as effective as medicine for treating the core symptoms of ADHD, it may initially be recommended as the sole treatment for children under 6 years old, the ADHD symptoms are mild, but there is uncertainty as to the ADHD diagnosis, or the parents prefer to start with therapy.

The Role of Therapy in ADHD Treatment

Non-medication treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior therapy, and ADHD coaching, can play an important role in the treatment of ADHD. These therapies target the negative behaviors associated with ADHD, reinforce positive behaviors, and teach positive skills to help children meet their potential at home, at school, and in social relationships.

Continue reading to learn more about how behavioral treatment can help to manage ADHD symptoms and lessen their impact on your child.

What is Behavior Therapy?

Behavior therapy is a type of treatment that can be used for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that focuses on improving a child's behavior, self-control, and self-esteem. It is particularly effective when delivered by parents and has been recommended by experts for children under the age of 12. For children under 6 years old, behavior therapy should be tried before considering medication.

Behavior therapy teaches parents specific skills and strategies to help their child with ADHD succeed in different settings such as school, home, and relationships. Although learning and practicing behavior therapy takes time and effort, the benefits for the child and the family are long-lasting.

Behavioral techniques can also be used at school to help students with ADHD. For example, teachers can set up behavioral programs in the classroom and reinforce good behavior at home. One such program uses a daily report card designed to encourage positive classroom behavior such as paying attention, controlling impulses, and improving academic performance.

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapeutic approach that has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD. CBT focuses on the connection between a person's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and how they can influence one another.

In the context of ADHD, CBT aims to help individuals recognize and challenge negative thinking patterns that may be contributing to their symptoms. This can involve teaching individuals how to reframe negative thoughts, set realistic goals, and develop more effective coping strategies. CBT may also include behavioral techniques such as goal setting, problem-solving, and time management.

It's important to note that CBT is typically a short-term, goal-oriented treatment that is tailored to each individual's specific needs. While some people may benefit from just a few sessions, others may require ongoing therapy to achieve their desired outcomes. Overall, CBT is a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their mental health and well-being.

What is an ADHD Coach?

ADHD coaches provide personalized support to help individuals with ADHD identify and achieve their goals. They may help clients with time management, organization, prioritization, and developing effective strategies for managing symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, an ADHD coach can help clients identify and build upon their strengths and work on improving areas where they may be struggling.

Working with an ADHD coach can also help individuals gain a better understanding of their ADHD symptoms and how to manage them effectively. By providing support, guidance, and accountability, an ADHD coach can help clients navigate the challenges of ADHD and lead a more fulfilling life.

It's important to note that ADHD coaching is not a substitute for medical or psychological treatment, but rather a complementary approach that can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.