What’s the #1 burning question about your child’s behavior that keeps you up at night?

273: When should I consider non-medication approaches over traditional medication?

Discover the science behind non-medication and traditional approaches for children, helping parents make informed decisions that align with their child’s unique needs.

Parents are often divided on when to consider non-medication approaches over traditional medication for their children. For some, the idea of trying anything other than a prescription feels risky, while others worry about relying too heavily on medication without addressing the root causes. What’s often missing from the conversation is a balanced look at the science behind both options. Let’s cut through the confusion, follow the science and give our kids the foundation they deserve. It’s time to explore options that align with your child’s unique needs and empower you as a parent to make informed choices.

Non-Medication Approaches for Child Development

Medication should never be the first line of defense, especially when addressing challenges in a developing brain. Kids’ brains don’t fully mature until their mid-twenties, with the frontal lobes not fully developing until around 28. The idea that every problem boils down to neurotransmitters doesn’t align with what science actually tells us. The truth is, there are countless reasons why a nervous system might dysregulate. Until we regulate the nervous system, real learning, healing, focus, and action just can’t happen the way they’re supposed to–or sometimes at all. What I want to emphasize is that medication doesn’t address root causes. That’s why I love non-medication approaches.

While not all of them work the same, most aim to uncover what’s driving the behavior at its core. They focus on nervous system regulation, which is key to improving behavior, health, and addressing those underlying causes. So, when should you lean into non-medication approaches? First, if you haven’t tried anything else yet, why jump to medication?

Start with the least restrictive option–one rooted in science and focused on supporting your child’s nervous system. And if you’re worried about medication side effects, that’s another strong reason to begin here. Every nervous system, whether neurodivergent or neurotypical, thrives with regulation. It’s essential for both physical and mental health.

Addressing Family and Behavioral Issues

There are so many non-medication options out there, from psychotherapy to PEMF, magnesium, and more. But the truth is that if you haven’t addressed behaviors, family dynamics, or parent dysregulation, that’s where you need to start. You can’t focus on one child in isolation if the entire family system is dysregulated. In my book, there’s a section called “Angry See, Angry Do” about a family who was so consumed by their anger that they kept blaming their kids.

They refused to let go of their anger, and unfortunately, that cycle kept repeating. That’s an extreme example, but smaller patterns like this often show up in family systems. Addressing these issues doesn’t make you a bad parent. It just means you’ve hit a roadblock and need some guidance. That’s why so many people seek support. If you’re feeling stuck, I always recommend visiting our website to find resources that can match you with the right solutions.

But remember, information is only as good as the action you take with it. Non-medication approaches are particularly important to consider if they align with your family’s holistic values. Don’t let fear or judgment from others push you in a direction that doesn’t feel right. Stick to what works for your family. Finally, non-medication approaches are a must if traditional methods haven’t worked.

Most of the families I work with fall into this category. These are complex cases, and I see far better results with tools like neurofeedback, PEMF, supplements, and very specific therapies than with psych meds. Understanding the root cause and addressing it properly can make a dramatic difference.

Diet and Nutrition, Neurofeedback, and PEMF

When your child’s symptoms are mild to moderate, or you’re not in crisis mode, it is the perfect time to tackle the core issues. There is no quick fix, but there are many non-medication approaches that can create meaningful change. One of the biggest ones is diet and nutrition. I understand that this may be overwhelming for some but my advice is to start small. Pick one thing to remove or add to their diet and make gradual progress. You can tackle bigger changes once their nervous system is regulated, but trying to overhaul their diet all at once can feel impossible.

Neurofeedback is another incredible tool. It can safely and effectively regulate specific areas of the brain while improving communication between brain centers. This helps with neurotransmitters, brainwaves, and calming the nervous system. However, the provider’s skill is critical. Always work with someone who is licensed or working toward board certification.

PEMF, or Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy, is another favorite. It uses low-frequency magnetics to support the autonomic nervous system, reduce inflammation, and improve detoxification. This helps the nervous system regulate so the brain and body can function as they should. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques are also essential. I use them daily, whether it is breathwork, prayer, or something else. These practices help manage stress because life can be challenging, and stress builds up from both big events and everyday responsibilities. Mindfulness helps reset the system. Practicing these techniques with your kids can make a big difference and bring more peace to your family.

Finally, therapy is a key component, whether it is behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, or parent therapy. Parents often need more support than they realize, and working with a therapist who involves you in the process is crucial. You need someone who will guide you along the way because real change happens at home, not just in the therapist’s office. I also want to emphasize that you are not a bad parent for needing help. You are simply learning new tools to navigate this journey.

Combining Non-Medication Approaches with Medication

Non-medication approaches can absolutely be combined with medication, but it is crucial to have your providers work together. Every situation is unique, and while some prescribers may initially resist alternative approaches, most truly want their patients to improve and even reduce reliance on medication. If you encounter resistance, stand firm and advocate for what feels right for your child, just as other parents have done.

You need to work with trained and qualified professionals who understand integrative methods. For example, many pediatricians are unaware of the science supporting interventions like neurofeedback, which the American Academy of Pediatrics rates as a top-tier treatment for ADHD. Education and collaboration are definitely key, but don't rely on advice from those untrained in these areas. In my experience, regulating the nervous system is foundational.

Quick results are possible, but lasting change requires regular, consistent effort over months. Small, consistent steps like addressing diet, using tools like PEMF or neurofeedback, and incorporating mindfulness can create big shifts over time. Even when it feels like nothing is working, positive change is still possible. If your child hasn’t improved yet, it doesn’t mean they can’t get better.

The missing piece is often nervous system regulation, and there are so many ways to support it. Start small, take consistent steps, and stay patient. If you’re looking for real, lasting change, non-medication approaches are often the best place to start. It is about finding what truly supports your child and your entire family in a meaningful way.

Not sure where to start? We'll help you find the right solution tailored to your needs. Visit https://drroseann.com/help/ today and take our FREE Brain and Behavior Solutions Matcher.

Discover science-backed mental health solutions and gain valuable insights from Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge by exploring the resources available at www.drroseann.com.

Are you ready to transform your child’s focus, resilience, and ability to thrive? Unlock your child's calm potential: https://drroseann.com/quickcalm/

Links and Resources:

➡️ Join our FREE Natural Parenting Community to receive science-backed resources for your child and family. Join here.

➡️ Get help from Dr. Roseann and her team. Apply here. 

➡️ “Is it ADHD or something else?” Take the quiz. 

Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge: Revolutionizing Children’s Mental Health

 
Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge’s podcast, It’s Gonna be OK!™: Science-Backed Solutions for Children’s Behavior and Mental Health, is in the top 2% globally. The podcast empowers parents with natural, science-backed solutions to improve children’s self-regulation and calm their brains. Each episode delivers expert advice and practical strategies, making it indispensable for parents of neurodivergent children or those with behavioral or mental health challenges.

Dr. Roseann, founder of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health and Dr. Roseann, LLC, created the Neurotastic™ Brain Formulas and BrainBehaviorReset® method. With her extensive experience, she provides families with hope and effective strategies to manage conditions like ADHD, anxiety, OCD, and PANS/PANDAS. 

Forbes has called her “A thought leader in children’s mental health,” highlighting her revolutionary impact on mental health education and treatment. Through her podcast and innovative methods, Dr. Roseann continues to transform how we approach, treat and understand children’s mental health.

Dr. Roseann Neurotastic Sales
Scroll to Top
Having Computer issues?
What’s the #1 burning question

about your child’s behavior that keeps you up at night?

By sending us your question, you give us permission to use
your audio clip anonymously in our podcast.