 
ADHD
Natural Individualized Multi-Modal Treatment Plans
ADHD is the most recent name for a complex neuro-biological disorder
which can occur in children, adolescents, or adults. Symptoms usually
include difficulty with attention, concentration, memory, organization,
and. for some, impulsivity, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, and relationship
problems. There is a wide range of behaviors associated with ADHD.
Variability of symptoms is a hallmark of this disorder.
Diagnosis and Assessment
There is no one test for diagnosing ADHD. A comprehensive
evaluation by experienced professionals is necessary to rule out
the presence of other conditions. Learning disabilities, depression,
anxiety, oppositional behaviors, and other psychiatric or medical
disorders may coexist with ADHD.
The Importance of Treatment
Without treatment, ADHD can lead to profound distress
at school, work, or home, resulting in academic or professional
failures, poor social skills, low-self-esteem, depression, anti-social
behaviors, or substance abuse.
Individuality & Variability
It is important to emphasize that every case of ADHD
is unique. Biological, psychological, and social factors can all
work together to, create an individualized symptom picture. Genetic
predisposition, brain wave or neuro- chemical imbalances, nutritional
deficiencies, food sensitivities, family and school dynamics, and
emotional stressors may be involved. For this reason, it is best
to design a treatment plan able to address specific individual needs.
Treatment Options
A multidisciplinary, multimodal approach is believed
to provide the most effective treatment for ADHD. This includes
options for both conventional medical and alternative therapies,
with behavioral management, nutritional modifications, parent training,
and individual, family, or group therapy, and medication as needed.
Medical Treatment
Symptoms of ADHD often improve through the use of
medications. The most common are stimulant drugs, particularly Ritalin
and Dexedrine. With the right choice of medication at the correct
dosage for a particular individual, many report significant symptom
improvement. Other medications are also prescribed. Unfortunately,
none of these medications treat the biochemical or neurological
imbalances underlying ADHD, and many have side effects.
Natural & Alternative Therapies
Many forms of alternative treatment have been effective
in resolving, symptoms of ADHD without reliance on long-term use
of medications. These therapies work to rebalance the brain neurochemistry
in a variety of ways.
EEG Biofeedback
EEG Biofeedback is computerized training which teaches
children and adults to recognize and control specific brain waves.
Researchers have found that those with ADHD have an abundance of
Theta waves (associated with daydreaming and inattentiveness and
lowered levels of Beta waves (associated with concentration and
focus). Through a series of training sessions, EEG Biofeedback helps
individuals learn to control these brain wave patterns and their
behaviors.
Nutritional Therapies
Brain function and neurochemistry is very sensitive
to the intake of nutrients through diet. The need for specific nutrients
can vary greatly, with some individuals requiring much higher or
lower amounts of certain foods or food components. Further research
in this area is needed, but many doctors and patients report long-term
improvements following the application of dietary changes and/or
nutritional supplementation. Those with symptoms of ADHD should
be assessed through blood work and nutritional analysis to see if
the following factors have an impact on their disorder,
- Food Allergies/ Sensitivities
- Carbohydrate Sensitivity
- Essential Fatty Acid Imbalances
- Protein/Amino Acid Deficiencies
- Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
- Free Radical Damage
- Sensitivity to Sugars or Caffeine
- Sensitivity to Food Additives
- Exposure to Environmental Toxins
Each of these areas may have a powerful effect on
symptoms. For example, the removal of a wheat or dairy allergen
for a sensitive individual, or the addition of the correct form
and dose of an essential fatty acid can lead to far-reaching positive
changes in brain chemistry, function, and associated behaviors.
Blood Chemistry Analysis
Standard blood chemistry profiles currently used by
general practitioners are not able to provide a full picture of
a patient's health status. New biochemical laboratory tests, using
computerized databases, can now provide detailed information on
bodily systems and nutritional status. Such a blood analysis helps
the doctor to understand how to best treat and rebalance the biochemistry
of a particular patient, through changes in diet, elimination of
allergens, or the addition of missing nutrients.
Dr. Greenblatt writes:
"I have learned many things from the thousands
of families and children I have worked with over the years. The
most significant lesson I relearn with every patient is how complex
our uniqueness really is. This concept of individuality extends
beyond looks, intelligence and personality. This individuality defines
our core metabolism and biochemistry. This unique metabolic puzzle
supports our ability to pay attention, inhibit unwanted behaviors
and regulate our moods.
"In children and adults suffering from ADHD,
we have found profound nutrient deficiencies and biochemical abnormalities.
The science is now available to explore these unique metabolic profiles
and begin to understand our individualized biochemical fingerprints.
Treating the underlying biochemistry addresses the core of the problem.
I believe this is preferable to only providing temporary relief
of symptoms through medication."
In his workshops and seminars on Natural Therapies
for ADD and Depression. Dr. Greenblatt offers detailed information
on nutritional influences for neuropsychological disorders. These
workshops review the scientific research supporting nutritional
and alternative therapies, and address the interests of medical
professional, mental health practitioners, teachers, patients and
family members.
Dr. Greenblatt is available for individual consultation
and has a private practice in psychiatry in Newton Centre, Massachusetts
where he is the medical director of Comprehensive Psychiatric Resources,
Inc.
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