Attention Deficit Disorder

Perhaps there is a new frontier on the horizon for us to consider when it comes to dealing with individuals that have been given the label ADD/ADHD. This is a term used to describe children and adults who are inattentive, impulsive, and particularly in the case of children, active at levels that are higher than expected for their mental and chronological age. For the last 20 some years the growing trend has been to treat this condition with stimulant medication, which increases the amount of neurotransmitters. The first line of treatment and most commonly prescribed medication has been Ritalin. It is generally believed this drug improves classroom behavior, academic performance, interactions with peers, oppositional conduct, noncompliant/aggressive behavior, and social interactions.

All this from a pill. Then there is the down side which may include decreased appetite, insomnia, upset stomach, headache or irritability. Controversy that surrounds its use includes the following: growth suppression, development of tics (involuntary), medication abuse, medicolegal concerns, use in adolescents, rebound and cognitive toxicity.

My purpose with this page really isn't to rehash information you probably already have on the subject, rather to introduce you to some alternative approaches to living and dealing with this condition. Approaches that are natural, safe, and may be beneficial alone or in conjunction with a multidisciplinary team approach in the case of a child.

Therapeutic-grade essential oils may be one option worth your consideration.
The fragrance lavender is calming, relaxing and balancing, both physically and emotionally. It is considered safe for use on small children. Harmony brings a harmonic balance to the energy centers of the body, reduces stress and creates a general overall feeling of well-being. Peace and Calming is specially designed to diffuse and may be calming and comforting to young children during an overactive, stressful day. Other Young Living Essential Oils worth considering for the hyperactive individual include Citrus Fresh, Roman Chamomile, Trauma Life and Valor.

Yoga is certainly not new, it's a scientific method of exercise that's been in existence for thousands of years. It was introduced to America over a hundred years ago. All people need some form of exercise and children especially need a good physical exercise program. What could be better than a system that simultaneously works on the body, mind and emotions. Why not introduce your child to yoga. For the hyperactive child it would not only be an appropriate outlet for their energy system, it can also be a doorway for their mental development.

Reiki is another tool that can assist in bringing the hyperactive individual into a state of balance. Both the parent and child may want to consider receiving the Reiki I attunements and training. Children are very receptive and open to the universal life force energy and can be shown how to direct it to restore what can best be described as an underactive inhibitory system.

Tesla has a degree in Elementary and Special Education. She has worked in this field for almost 20 years and raised one child who was considered ADHD at the age of 6, without the use of Ritalin or stimulant drugs.