ADHD Non-Pharmacological Strategies for Treatment

Drugs like Ritalin and Adderall are well-known options for treating ADHD. However, there are many non-pharmacological methods to dealing with ADHD, which is also known as ADD and AD/HD. Patients can work with self-help tools like books and websites to improved day-to-day habits, and with therapists to change thought patterns. ADHD coaches can also work individually with patients to manage issues that complicate everyday lives of those with ADHD. Major life improvements can be made, even without popular drug treatments.

Self Help

• There are many books available that include specific strategies for dealing with one's own ADHD.

  One of the best-known books in the area of treating ADHD, "Healing ADD" by Daniel Amen, suggests a variety of treatments including diet changes, changing thinking patterns and working with coaches, in addition to better-known medical options. Other helpful books include "ADD-Friendly Ways to Organized your Life" by Judith Kolberg and Kathleen Nadeau, and "Self-Coaching Workshop for Attention Deficit Disorder Adults" by Bonnie Mincu.

  Mincu's book outlines a program of identifying and self-treating many common challenges of those with ADHD, including attention problems, inherent disorganization, and lack of following through on projects. The individualized approach created by Mincu also helps readers to improve concepts of time and time-management. Her website, Thrive with ADD, offers supplemental information for clients and coaches.

  CHADD, or Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder, is also a helpful resource to learn about the basics of ADHD. This organization offers numerous resources about the disorder itself, tips for adults, parents and kids, and current research in the industry.

Therapy

• There are also therapists who work specifically with adults and/or children who have ADHD. Therapists can help clients identify the problems in their lives that are effected by ADHD, particularly troublesome thinking patterns. In "Healing ADD," Amen described a method of changing negative thinking patterns that are natural for ADHD patients. Therapists can help clients to address negative thinking and behavioral patterns.

  Therapists within psychology, social work and other counseling fields may specialize in working with clients with ADHD. CHADD's site maintains a website with names of local ADHD groups and counselors.

Coaching

• Many in the industry also suggest one-on-one ADHD coaching for those who can afford and find available coaches. While therapists may deal with larger issues of ADHD, coaches can provide more specific, personal help, which sometimes includes home visits. A few major national organizations help train life coaches, and some have specific training in organizing and/or ADHD. The American Coaching Association offers a registration tool for coaches who specialize in ADD.