ADHD Medication - Is It Worth It?

I firmly believe that ADHD can be overcome without the use of medication. One of the best things about the brain training programs at Learn 2 Focus is that everything is “natural,” so to speak. All the programs we use consist of tried-and-true methods and exercises developed by neuroscientists that our students can practice in the office or at home, gradually rewiring and developing the way they think and the way their neuronal pathways work. No medication or chemicals are ingested – the transformation begins from the inside, and not from anything the child is prescribed.

And yes, while ADHD medication can in certain instances temporarily curb restlessness, impulsivity and inattention, the side effects are frequently a hefty price to pay. I've had students actually miss school because of the side effects of ADHD medication, especially due to stomach problems, headaches, and aggressive outbursts. One child became violent and kicked out his family's windshield twice in 3 weeks before they decided to halt his 3rd medication trial and switch exclusively to brain training. Other effects include decreased appetite, delayed growth, sleep problems, rebounding effects, tics, irritability and moodiness. In the rare, severe occasions, the child could experience heart problems as well.

If you recognize any of these side effects, I strongly recommend trying an alternative method that might have less of a health impact on your child. Two students came to me this past year with what looked like Tourette’s, but it was actually their ADHD medication that was causing tics. The children are currently off the medications now, and are doing great with Interactive Metronome and reflex integration program! 

The good news is that the stimulation medications for ADHD are short acting, which means that they do not stay in the body for a long period. As soon as your child stops taking the meds, possible side-effects will also cease.

For more information about ADHD medication, you can visit http://www.childmind.org/en/posts/articles/2014-5-6-what-we-know-long-term-effects-adhd-medication.