How to Manage ADHD Beyond Medication (There are many options. Ask your doctor.)
Posted on August 19, 2018 by Derek Sleater Cook, One of Thousands of ADD ADHD Coaches on Noomii.
Excerpts from an online article from WebMD including Life Coaching. I also use Music Therapy, AT (Assistive Technology), Exercise and Healthy.
My approach to maximizing my ADHD is based on several factors from my experience as a young child, a student as well as family and peer interaction with a close family friend who was a PhD and well-versed with ADHD.
- On the WebMD website: Reviewed by Smitha Bhandari, MD on October 18, 2018. This tool does not provide medical advice.
(These are just some of the tools in my kit. I partner with you to assess your specific strengths and limitations [I am certified in debriefing and facilitating your core motivations found on ColorCode.com] and together we create a road map and embark on a journey to help you empower yourself to create the results you desire. Discovering, embracing and utilizing your passion to identify simpler and easier ways for you to take the action required for your success.
ADHDers are typically motivated by fun and feel passion about a variety ideas and activities. We’re not lazy because we do not take action and finish a task. The more likely explanation is that we lack interest or passion in the activity. When you discover your passion, beginning, taking action and competing a task is no longer the challenge. Utilizing your passion and WHY turns lack of focus into hyper-focus, plentiful persistence and productivity).
Coaching
This is a newer type of ADHD treatment. Coaches — who are sometimes called executive function coaches or organizational coaches — aren’t the same as therapists or doctors. Some coaches may be licensed therapists or medical professionals, but they use different techniques during coaching. They help kids and adults with ADHD learn skills that help them manage symptoms. For example, coaches can help with goal setting, problem solving, and time management.
Music Therapy
Kids with ADHD often struggle with stress and anxiety. Music can be relaxing, which is why some experts think it’s good medicine. What’s more, music has a start, an end, and a rhythm. Some experts think that structure may help kids with ADHD get through everyday activities. Music therapy isn’t supposed to replace behavioral therapy or medication. Most ADHD professionals use it alongside other treatments.
Assistive Technology (AT)
ADHD affects the brain’s frontal lobes — that’s an area that helps you get organized and plan ahead. Because of this, kids with ADHD may struggle to stay on top of homework and tasks at home, too. Some parents find that assistive technology — like cell phone apps, online calendars, screen readers, and talking calculators — help their kids pay attention. Many kids like screens and may be more willing to use apps that involve a cell phone, tablet, or other computer. There’s no one type of AT that’s most effective, so you may have to try several tech tools to see what works best for your child. And too much screen time may make some kids’ symptoms worse.
Exercise
Regular exercise eases many ADHD symptoms. It can help kids pay attention and can boost their mood, too. Exercise may even help make it less likely that your child does risky things like speeding while driving, or abusing alcohol. One reason? Even short bursts of physical activity can raise levels of brain chemicals like dopamine.
Activity also helps with sleep. If your child often doesn’t get enough shut-eye, it can make ADHD symptoms stronger.
Healthy Diet
A bad diet doesn’t cause ADHD. But experts say that a nutritious diet filled with fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein is important for healthy brain development.
A small amount of research suggests that ADHD symptoms improve in some (but not all) kids after they stop eating anything that contains artificial food dyes. (Food dye can be found in some candy, cereals, and other foods.) Healthy levels of omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients like zinc may also help. But there’s no proof that any one type of diet can greatly curb symptoms or cure ADHD.
(ADHD is best maximized via a multi-pronged approach. I also provide accountability and more so, help you develop personal accountability to create results and do so before the spouse, boss or business partner even thinks about it!)
