ADHD - Do you have any ideas on soothing the home OTHER than the medication?
our Dr never does anything but write more scripts.
Im wanting ideas on handling adhd without the medication, and if it would be okay to flat stop the meds to see if he even still needs it.
Answer:
I've been a teacher for many years. What I've seen help is reduce sugar intake. Use lots of routine. Before you change, give a 5 min. warning in a calm voice... then 1 min. as a reminder then, as smoothly as possible, shift into the change (activity, circumstance, whatever). But most of all, you must, and I cannot stress this enough, you MUST be CONSISTENT. I've heard numerous reports of dramatic results just from "meaning what you say" and sticking to it. Show your child attention (fair, do NOT overdo it/spoil) love them, but give them responsibilities and routines.then be consistent!!! :) Meds are just a drug they DO NOT fix anything. in fact, research shows that they can stunt growth and in some cases cause permanent brain damage.
I know you worry. He is your child. Also, he is your child. Trust yourself. My son - ADHD too. However, check into getting a new doc. My son does take meds. too but I trust his doc. (who also has kids). Doesn't sound like you are confident with his doc. Check with your pharmacist about stopping the meds. it is their job to knowledgeable on effects of meds. and I have had wonderful interactions with the local pharmacist explaining and they will tell you to also check w/ doc. Since he is not your favorite, search for local ADHD info/support in your area. They have seen/heard it all and can probably get you some names for docs. w/ good reps. via word of mouth. A doc. who will discuss meds, counseling, structure in the home, sounds, colors, & foods that can be a variable with ADHD. Please think about it. My young son is my heart. I hope this will give a new perspective and you do have options.
There's a video on this site that explains one approach that has helped many. I might work for your son too.
I think it should be part of a dietary improvement aimed at increasing micronutrient support and eliminating processed foods, including pasteurized milk.
http://www.glycoawareness.com
A diet that is abundant in fresh fruits and vegetables provides the best nutritional support and there are published studies showing that this can be very helpful for those with ADHD. However, there are certain fruits that can cause agitation. Grapes are an example. It's best to experiment a bit.
You might also avoid red dye. Here's a link that might be of help: http://www.adhdnews.com/testforum/test32...
Lyda has a good answer. You need to use the approaches that do not involve yelling, but consistent approaches to discipline. The dietary changes are very important, though. When my son was young, I finally took him to a doctor that did a specific type of allergy testing for foods. Once I understood the effects foods can have, I changed his diet, and this helped a lot, especially in the behavior area. The book I used which helped greatly was called, "Allergies and the Hyperactive Child", by Dr. Doris Rapp. This book (I am sure there are others available, too) discusses the role foods can play in behavior, concentration, and other things that affect ADHD people. It cites studies and other references to dietary changes recommended by other physicians or authors, too. The book also notes other symptoms you may notice in an ADHD child. Only available through used booksites. I found it indispensible.
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