Alternative Treatments for Battling ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder affecting children and adults globally. It is characterized by inattention and excessive movement, which oftentimes leads to a low ability to do well in school. ADHD is becoming a well-known disorder as it is diagnosed more frequently than it was in the past.

The exact cause of ADHD has never been found, although medical doctors and researchers have compiled a list of potential causes. There is speculation that the disorder is connected to altered brain activity, heredity, maternal smoking or drug use, as well as childhood exposure to toxins.

After diagnosing a person with ADHD, some doctors will want to prescribe a medication that will counteract the disorder. Most often prescribed are stimulants, such as methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, and dextroamphetamine-amphetamine. Also prescribed are non-stimulant medications, anti-depressants, and drugs prescribed primarily for high blood pressure. All of the preceding drugs have been proven …

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Symptoms of ADHD in Children Relieved by Spending Time Outdoors

It’s well known that people feel restored after spending time outdoors in nature. A walk in the park helps reduce stress, elevates mood, and calms the mind. This seems to be especially true of children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Research has shown significant reductions in ADHD symptoms when children with ADHD spend time outdoors. Several follow-up studies have backed up the results and given insight into why being outside helps the brain focus.

These findings can help parents whose children do not respond to medication, as the effects seem to be true even among children who do not respond to other treatments. Best of all, green time is free, abundant, has few risks, and does not cause side effects as medications do.

A University of Illinois study had parents of 322 boys with ADHD and 84 girls with ADHD answer survey questions about their children’s after school and …

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