Mar 14, 2012

Options to medications for attention deficit & hyperactivity

Alternative treatments are no longer on the fringe.

I've been preaching non-drug options for children who have problems with attention and hyperactivity for years, so I'm really glad to see the brand new book, Non-Drug Treatments for ADHD: New Options for Kids, Adults, and Clinicians by Richard P. Brown and Patricia L. Gerbarg, plus information on  diet, vitamins, and nutrients as well as mind-body practices.

Drawing on stories and anecdotes from their own clinical practice, these two physicians address the questions that are particularly important to those dealing with ADHD. Early chapters provide information about diagnostic issues and the scientific foundation for understanding the known causes of ADHD, as well as how different treatments may work and why. Multiple contributing causes of ADHD exist—genetic, nutritional, chemical, psychological, trauma-based, and environmental—and the authors explain how treatments need to be strategically combined and tailored to patients’ unique needs and sensitivities.

Later chapters present integrative strategies that combine the best practices of psychological treatments with herbs, nutrients, cognitive enhancers, mind–body practices, and brain stimulation. Throughout, the authors draw on the work of talented clinicians, yoga therapists, and teachers who have found creative, effective approaches to helping their clients who struggle with attentional problems. 

Book excerpt here

Audio discussion about essential concepts regarding the effects of stress, and methods to reduce stress with authors here.