Alternative Medication for ADHD: What You Need To Know

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that may affect children, teens and adults. It can cause restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty concentrating on tasks. In some cases it can also lead to severe anxiety or depression. For many, medication is the answer for effective treatment of ADHD. However, some people may be hesitant about taking such a powerful drug because they fear it will have harmful side effects. Here, specialists from the rehabilitation center The Meadowglade, share five alternative medicine options for ADHD to help you decide the best treatment for your individual needs.

ADHD and Alternative Medication

Although many people have heard of ADHD, they may not know that there are alternative treatments for the condition. Some people with ADHD may be able to tolerate certain alternative treatments better than others. When considering medication, it’s important to talk to your doctor about all the options before deciding on one. Here The Meadowglade specialists share some of these alternative treatments for ADHD.

 

Alternative Medication Options for ADHD

1. L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid that has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD symptoms and other mental health disorders. It is found in green tea and helps improve concentration, memory, attention span and mood. Some people may experience a slight tingling sensation on their tongue. However, this usually does not cause a problem.

2. Valerian Root

This plant can help reduce anxiety and sleep problems associated to ADHD and insomnia. To use valerian root, you would need to take a teaspoon of the powder before bedtime or as needed during the day for treatment. The Meadowglade specialists (follow them on Instagram) recommend talking to your doctor first before taking this option if you have any ongoing medical issues or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

3. Melatonin

Melatonin can help with sleep disturbances that often accompany ADHD symptoms such as difficulty sleeping through the night, poor quality sleep, frequent waking up throughout the night and early morning awakenings without an alarm clock. This supplement can be taken at bedtime or as needed throughout the day for treatment. The Meadowglade specialists indicate that you must talk with your doctor before starting melatonin if you have any ongoing medical issues or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Alternative Non-Medication Treatment: Mindfulness Meditation

According to The Meadowglade specialists, mindfulness meditation is a form of meditation that teaches individuals how to focus their thoughts and emotions on the present moment without judging them or being caught up in stories from the past or future. This type of meditation has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety while improving symptoms associated with ADHD. In some cases, mindfulness meditation has even been used as a way to treat ADHD without medication at all. The Meadowglade rehabilitation center includes mindfulness meditation as a treatment option.

Conclusion

With so many different alternative treatments for ADHD, choosing the right alternative treatment can be overwhelming.

The Meadowglade specialists indicate that it’s important to know the differences and risks for each medication so that you can make the best decision for your personal health.