Manage attention deficit disorder the natural way

Attention deficit disorder (ADD), otherwise called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is a diagnosis that is growing in numbers in industrialized countries around the world. In North America, it is estimated that five to eight per cent of all children are diagnosed with ADD with 10 per cent being boys and four per cent being girls. It is also estimated that four to eight per cent of adults are now diagnosed with ADD. With the lack of physical findings available for identifying ADD (for instance, there is no brain scan or blood work that can be ordered to detect ADD), over- or misdiagnosis can occur. Currently, ADD/ADHD falls into two categories:

1. Inattention
• Failing to pay close attention to details or making careless mistakes when doing schoolwork or other activities
• Trouble keeping attention focused during play or tasks
• Appearing not to listen when spoken to
• Failing to follow instructions or finish tasks
• Avoiding tasks that require a high amount of mental effort and organization, such as school projects
• Frequently losing items required to facilitate tasks or activities, such as school supplies
• Excessive distractibility
• Forgetfulness

2. Hyperactivity/impulsive behaviour
• Fidgeting with hands or feet or squirming in seat
• Leaving seat often, even when inappropriate
• Running or climbing at inappropriate times
• Difficulty in quiet play
• Frequently feeling restless
• Excessive speech
• Answering a question before the speaker has finished
• Failing to await one's turn
• Interrupting the activities of others at inappropriate times

When a child is diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, parents often feel helpless and confused about the best choice of treatment. To compound the issue even more, the caretaker is often exhausted by managing the child's behavioural issues, which can be all-consuming in the household.

Currently, the typical approaches to treating ADD/ADHD include:
• Drug therapy with stimulant medications (like Ritalin), antipsychotics or antidepressants. A relatively new nonstimulant medication called Strattera is also available.
• Socialization therapy
• Cognitive behaviour therapy
• Educational intervention
• Natural approaches

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