When you’re a mom navigating the daily chaos of ADHD, it’s easy to feel like your only option is medication—but there are effective, non-medication ways to help your ADHD child thrive by addressing the underlying root cause of dysregulation and building lasting calm and focus from the inside out.
When it comes to addressing ADHD in children and teens, the parents I work with in my clinic or in our Dysregyulation Solution group, often find themselves at a crossroads, balancing the benefits of medication with potential ADHD medication side effects.
While pharmaceuticals like Adderall are commonly prescribed, they may not be the best fit for everyone. If you're exploring managing ADHD without medication, you're not alone. Numerous natural remedies for ADHD can be effective.
Can You Treat ADHD Without Drugs?
It’s essential to recognize that dealing with ADHD without drugs is a viable path, and there are various non drug treatments available. Attention Deficit Disorder Treatment without drugs focuses on behavioral therapies, lifestyle changes, and nutritional adjustments. Medication is not the only way to improve ADHD symptoms, but it should not be the first line of defense, especially for a developing brain. Medication is not the only option and there are many effective ways to treat ADHD naturally.
I recall treating a pharmacist’s son (along with five of his kids) who was so concerned that parents are only hearing about medication options. Her own journey to ADHD, only began after searching the internet and she was shocked to learn about so many evidence-based approaches that she never was taught.
To treat ADHD without meds starts with understanding the unique needs of each individual and finding strategies that support their daily functioning. And that is exactly what the parents I work with come to understand and we guide them through in all of our programs.
How to Manage ADHD Without Meds
When it comes to ADHD management, natural solutions without drugs are powerful tools that address the root cause of struggles—dysregulation. Natural treatments, as alternatives to conventional drug therapies, are gaining interest for their non-invasive nature and holistic approach.
While medication can provide temporary relief, it doesn’t heal the nervous system or create lasting change. ADHD is often a sign of an overstimulated or underregulated brain, and the key to helping kids thrive is calming the nervous system first.
Natural solutions like neurofeedback, nutritional support, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes work to regulate the brain, fostering lasting improvements in focus, behavior, and emotional control.
When we prioritize calming the brain and addressing the underlying dysregulation, everything else—attention, learning, and self-regulation—naturally falls into place. With a science-backed, holistic approach, we can help kids heal and truly thrive without relying on medication.
Here are 7 Natural ADHD treatment without drugs:
1. Behavioral Therapies
As the American Psychiatric Association and medical professionals recognize, behavior therapy is a foundational part of ADHD care, and with the right strategies, kids can manage ADHD symptoms and improve without relying on medication. Behavioral therapies are a cornerstone of ADHD treatment options without medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals develop coping strategies, improve organizational skills, and enhance focus.
Talk therapy and joining support groups can also improve ADHD kid’s social skills and behavior. These therapies are particularly beneficial in teaching kids with ADHD how to create structure, self-regulate, and improve their problem-solving skills to help them thrive in their daily life.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments
Implementing structure and routine can significantly benefit those with ADHD. This includes consistent schedules, organized environments, and clear expectations, which can be beneficial in multiple aspects of life, including reducing ADHD symptoms. Physical activity is another crucial component, as regular exercise has been shown to improve concentration and reduce hyperactive behaviors.
3. Nutritional Interventions
Diet plays a significant role in how to treat ADHD without medication. Nutritional interventions can help reduce impulsive behaviors by supporting brain health and regulating the nervous system. A healthy diet and reducing refined sugar or dairy can make a change. It all starts with small steps. Choosing the right foods and avoiding certain triggers can improve focus, reduce hyperactivity, and promote emotional balance naturally.
What to Eat for ADHD | What Not to Eat for ADHD |
Protein-Rich Foods: Eggs, lean meats, fish, beans, and nuts to stabilize blood sugar and improve focus. | Processed Foods: Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can worsen hyperactivity. |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fatty fish (salmon, sardines) and flaxseeds for brain health and reducing hyperactivity. | Sugary Foods and Drinks: Reduce candies, sodas, and desserts that cause energy spikes and crashes. |
Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to support steady energy levels. | High-Saturated Fat Foods: Limit fried foods and fast food that impair brain function. |
Magnesium and Zinc: Spinach, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas to support attention and reduce impulsivity. | Allergens or Sensitivities: Be mindful of potential triggers like gluten or dairy, as they can worsen symptoms in some children. |
Iron-Rich Foods: Lean red meat, fortified cereals, and leafy greens to improve focus and brain function. | Excess Caffeine: Avoid energy drinks or excessive chocolate that may increase restlessness. |
3. Mindfulness and Meditation
This is a free and quick way to calm the brain. Mindfulness practices, including meditation and yoga, are powerful tools in how to manage ADHD without medication. These relaxation techniques help improve self-awareness and focus, providing a calming effect that can address symptoms.
Additionally, mindfulness practices can help manage impulsive behavior, which is a common challenge for individuals with ADHD.
Practices like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and mindfulness can lower stress and signal your body to prepare for sleep. These strategies can also naturally boost melatonin production and lessen anxiety.
Melatonin helps ensure you get enough sleep—it’s a key regulator of overall health. Maintaining consistent sleep patterns is crucial for a well-regulated nervous system, which can significantly improve ADHD symptoms.
One study by Zylowska et al. (2008) explores the potential benefits of mindfulness meditation for individuals with ADHD. The researchers conducted an 8-week mindfulness meditation training program with 32 adolescents and adults diagnosed with ADHD. The results showed significant improvements in attention, self-esteem, stress management and self-regulation with reduced ADHD symptoms.
Participants reported enhanced attention and a better ability to manage their emotions and behavior. The study found that mindfulness practices, which involve focusing on the present moment and accepting it without judgment, can help mitigate some cognitive and emotional challenges associated with ADHD.
4. Magnesium for ADHD and other Supplements
Natural Remedies to Treat ADHD include supplements like magnesium as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that has garnered attention for their potential benefits in managing ADHD symptoms. Magnesium plays a role in neurological function and can help with hyperactivity and impulsivity. It’s an essential part of natural remedies for ADHD and can be especially useful in natural ADHD treatment for adults.
Magnesium: A Natural Remedy
Among the various natural supplements for ADHD adults, magnesium stands out. This mineral is crucial for many bodily functions, including nerve transmission and muscle function. Studies suggest that magnesium deficiency can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, and supplementation can help improve attention and reduce hyperactivity.
One study by Surman et al. (2020) investigated the effects of magnesium L-threonate on adults with ADHD. L-threonate is a form of magnesium known for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively.
Over 12 weeks, participants showed significant improvement in ADHD symptoms, suggesting that magnesium L-threonate could be a promising natural supplement for managing ADHD. The findings emphasize the potential role of magnesium in holistic ADHD treatment, particularly in enhancing cognitive function and reducing hyperactivity.
Incorporating magnesium into your routine can be done through diet or supplements. Foods rich in magnesium include leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential for those looking at supplements to determine the appropriate dosage.
5. Herbal Supplements
Herbs like Bacopa Monnieri and Ginkgo Biloba are known to enhance focus, memory, and cognitive function, making them helpful for ADHD management. Rhodiola Rosea supports stress reduction and mental endurance, while Passionflower promotes calmness and reduces hyperactivity. These natural remedies work by regulating the nervous system, offering a non-medication approach to improving attention and emotional regulation.
6. Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback, a type of EEG biofeedback, is a cutting-edge, drug-free approach to managing ADHD that helps regulate the nervous system and address the root causes of symptoms. This science-backed therapy trains the brain to self-regulate by using real-time feedback on brainwave activity, promoting calm, focus, and better emotional control.
ADHD often stems from dysregulation in the brain, and neurofeedback works to balance those over- or under-stimulated brainwaves. By calming the nervous system first, neurofeedback creates lasting improvements in attention, behavior, and executive functioning, offering a natural solution that gets to the heart of the issue.
7. PEMF Therapy
PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy offers a natural way to support children with ADHD by enhancing the brain's ability to regulate itself. This gentle, non-invasive approach works by improving cellular function and communication in the brain, helping to reduce stress and promote a state of calm.
Unlike medication, which often masks symptoms, PEMF therapy targets the underlying dysregulation that contributes to challenges with attention, impulsivity, and emotional control. By restoring balance to the nervous system, PEMF helps create a foundation for better focus, behavior, and overall brain health
While medication can be a helpful part of ADHD treatment for adults and children, exploring how to treat ADHD without medication can open doors to sustainable and holistic management strategies.
Parent Next Steps
There are many ways to approach attention deficit hyperactivity disorder natural treatment. If you're looking for ways to cope with ADHD without medication, know that effective and safe options are available.
Always consult a healthcare professional who understands your unique situation for more personalized advice and support. By considering these alternative approaches, you can find a balanced and holistic way to manage ADHD that aligns with your values and needs.
The Neurotastic Multi-Mag Brain Formula is a potent magnesium powder that supports a calm brain and mental wellness. Use it to support brain development, cognitive function, focus, and attention. I designed this supplement to specifically help the brains of neurodivergent and dysregulated kids. What’s great is that it’s great for the entire family too! Try it here.
What are ADHD Medication Alternatives to Adderall?
If you are considering medication but wary of Adderall, there are other options available. While non-stimulant medications may seem to offer an alternative, they simply have a different side effect profile.
However, many still prefer to explore holistic or natural ADHD treatments for ADHD. Natural supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, zinc, and iron can support focus, emotional regulation, and brain health in individuals with ADHD.
How can individuals with ADHD minimize distractions and stay focused?
For children with ADHD, minimizing distractions often requires tailored strategies that address various forms of interruptions, such as environmental noise, digital notifications, or internal restlessness.
Using tools like noise-canceling headphones can help create a quieter environment, making it easier to focus on tasks. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and use techniques like timers to maintain attention. While these strategies can be effective, more research continues to explore ways to better support focus and paying attention in those with ADHD.
What are common ADHD Symptoms?
Common ADHD symptoms include difficulty focusing, impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and struggles with organization and follow-through. Various risk factors, such as genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and specific prenatal conditions, may contribute to the likelihood of developing these symptoms. These are brain-based challenges, not behavior issues, and with the right support, kids can thrive.
How can Pomodoro Technique help ADHD kids?
This technique helps improve focus, productivity, and improve overall well being for kids with ADHD. The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that breaks work into focused intervals, typically 25 minutes long, called “Pomodoros,” followed by a short 5-minute break. After completing four Pomodoros, take a longer break (15-30 minutes).
How can you treat ADHD in children naturally?
Treating ADHD in children naturally involves natural remedies for ADHD, such as behavioral therapies, lifestyle adjustments, a balanced diet, and natural supplements for ADHD like magnesium. Incorporating physical activity and creating a structured environment can also significantly help manage ADHD without medication.
Is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder curable?
ADHD is not curable, but it is manageable. Individuals can effectively control symptoms and lead successful lives with appropriate treatments and strategies.
Can ADHD be treated without medication?
Yes, ADHD can be treated without medication through behavioral therapies, lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and natural ADHD treatments. These methods can help manage symptoms effectively.
What are the signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults?
Signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults include difficulty focusing, disorganization, forgetfulness, impulsiveness, restlessness, and difficulty managing time. Adults may also experience problems with work performance and maintaining relationships.
What helps with ADHD in kids?
For kids with ADHD, a structured routine, behavioral therapy, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and natural supplements for ADHD can be effective. Consistent parenting strategies and a supportive learning environment are also crucial.
What is the treatment for ADHD in teens with other mental health conditions?
ADHD treatment for teens with other mental health conditions often includes a combination of behavioral therapy, counseling, medication if necessary, and support for co-occurring conditions. A holistic approach that addresses all aspects of their health is essential.
Can you get rid of ADHD quickly?
No, there is no quick fix for ADHD. Managing ADHD without medication requires ongoing strategies and interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
How do you treat attention deficit disorder in toddlers?
Treating attention deficit disorder in toddlers focuses on behavioral interventions, creating a structured routine, and using positive reinforcement. Early intervention with therapy and support from healthcare professionals is crucial for managing ADHD without medication effectively.
Citations
Surman, C., Vaudreuil, C., Boland, H., Rhodewalt, L., DiSalvo, M., & Biederman, J. (2020). L-Threonic Acid Magnesium Salt Supplementation in ADHD: An Open-Label Pilot Study. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 18(2), 119–131. https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2020.1731044
Zylowska, L., Ackerman, D. L., Yang, M. H., Futrell, J. L., Horton, N. L., Hale, T. S., Pataki, C., & Smalley, S. L. (2008). Mindfulness Meditation Training in Adults and Adolescents With ADHD. Journal of Attention Disorders, 11(6), 737–746. https://doi.org/10.1177/108705470730850
Dr. Roseann is a mental health expert in ADHD who is frequently in the media:
- The Healthy 12 Silent Signs of Adult ADHD You Might Be Ignoring
- Evan H. Hirsch, MD – EnergyMD with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge (Video) Topic: Is it Brain Fog or ADHD?
Always remember… “Calm Brain, Happy Family™”
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to give health advice and it is recommended to consult with a physician before beginning any new wellness regime. *The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment vary by patient and condition. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC does not guarantee certain results.
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©Roseann Capanna-Hodge
Dr. Roseann is a Children’s Mental Health Expert and Licensed Therapist who has been featured in/on hundreds of media outlets including The Mel Robbins Show, CBS, NBC, PIX11 NYC, Today, FORBES, CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Business Insider, Women’s Day, Healthline, CNET, Parade Magazine and PARENTS. FORBES called her, “A thought leader in children’s mental health.”
She coined the terms, “Re-entry panic syndrome” and “eco-anxiety” and is a frequent contributor to media on mental health.
Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge has three decades of experience in working with children, teens and their families with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, concussion, dyslexia and learning disability, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), depression and mood disorder, Lyme Disease, and PANS/PANDAS using science-backed natural mental health solutions such as supplements, magnesium, nutrition, QEEG Brain maps, neurofeedback, PEMF, psychotherapy and other non-medication approaches.
She is the author of three bestselling books, It’s Gonna Be OK!: Proven Ways to Improve Your Child's Mental Health, The Teletherapy Toolkit, and Brain Under Attack. Dr. Roseann is known for offering a message of hope through science-endorsed methods that promote a calm brain.
Her trademarked BrainBehaviorResetⓇ Program and It’s Gonna be OK!Ⓡ Podcast has been a cornerstone for thousands of parents facing mental health, behavioral or neurodevelopmental challenges.
She is the founder and director of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health, Neurotastic™Brain Formulas and Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC. Dr. Roseann is a Board Certified Neurofeedback (BCN) Practitioner, a Board Member of the Northeast Region Biofeedback Society (NRBS), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP) and an Amen Clinic Certified Brain Health Coach. She is also a member of The International Lyme Disease and Associated Disease Society (ILADS), The American Psychological Association (APA), Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), International OCD Foundation (IOCDF).
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