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Attention Deficit Disorder: The Unfocused Mind in Children and Adults

As in the case of any other ailment, diagnosing is the primary step before going in for adult ADD medication. Diagnosis can help in providing direction by which you can change your attitudes and move away from perceiving yourself as indolent or unmotivated. It actually proves to be a relief of sorts, if it is established that the symptoms that you are observing like difficulty in time management, organization, and communication are due to some brain impairment and not otherwise.

There is always another danger present in the shape of pressures from friends, relatives, and others. Most people rush for adult ADD medication due to these pressures. It is not fraught from danger to do so since the problem could stem from being a slow learner and have nothing to do with adult attention deficit disorder.

Diagnosis of ADD primarily involves observing behavioral symptoms but this needs to be done by a trained eye since adults with these symptoms are known to be unable to report symptoms accurately. As such it is imperative that the guidelines for diagnosing adult ADD are adhered to by the clinician. Such guidelines include analytic study, family and medical history, study of standardized behavior rating scales including those specific to ADD and the numerous psychological tests to measure IQ and social and emotional adaptations.

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision, Washington, DC, American Psychiatric Association, 2000 (DSM-IV), is the official standard generally used but that too has been debated by eminent professionals. It is simply a list of symptoms of a continuous trait and does not constitute fully, the symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder.

For effective diagnosis, it should be kept in mind that the symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder should not only be present for at least six months but also known to have detrimental impact on the individual�s life, and must manifest in all environments, such as home, office, and social settings.

Adult ADD mostly manifests in the form of impairment of executive functioning. This is because it is only after attaining maturity that deficits relating to executive functioning surface and get noticed.
The prominent clusters of symptoms, normally reported by adults may be summed as having problems with:

1. Organizing work, setting priorities and activating tasks
2. Maintaining alertness, effort, speed, and motives
3. Staying focused and attentive particularly while reading
4. Memory retrieval, which is retaining memory while doing something else.

After the co-existing symptoms of other disorders have been eliminated, one needs to look for some recommendations from acquaintances and friends to choose a specialist. Also, in case health insurance covers ADD, it is mandatory that a certified specialist be chosen along with other requirements of health cover, because some insurance companies typify the kind of specialist they want an evaluation from.

To sum up, although a clinical evaluation is mandatory in diagnosing adult ADD, only clinical judgment can establish it. It should be noted that self-referral and self-reporting by adults is always more helpful to the doctor than information provided by family members.

Adults are more capable than children to realize that they have symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder but the sad part is that the essential characteristics of the condition of ADD are such that an individual is likely to be poor at self-observation.

There are no prizes for guessing what entails living with someone who exhibits symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder. These symptoms such as a perennial sense of insecurity and underachievement regardless of what one has actually achieved, easy distractibility, chronic problem with self-esteem, inability to sustain focus and memory retrieval can play havoc with daily chores and interactions. And this is by no means is a comprehensive list of the symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder.

What is to be emphasized here is the positive traits of an ADD patient. ADD patients are known to be creative, intuitive, and highly intelligent. If advertisements and unconfirmed news are to be believed, some of the most successful men have been patients of ADD at some point in time during their life and have been on adult ADD medication. It is indeed a matter demanding serious consideration that if those people could overcome their disabilities, then it is logically correct to say that it is possible for almost all to live with and manage ADD.

The first and the foremost prerequisite for living with adult ADD is the realization that the symptoms are due to brain impairment. One can only try to manage and live with it and make efforts to make the most out of a bad condition one has landed in due to factors beyond anyone�s control. It is thus, imperative that anyone who has been confirmatively diagnosed with ADD should proceed with a conviction that ADD is not a weakness of will but a neurobiological condition caused by external factors or genetically transmitted. Availability of a strong support system goes a long way in making this possible.

Once such realization and conviction has been imbedded within your psyche, it becomes easy to live with and manage ADD, just as lot many famous personalities have reportedly been successful at.

If adult ADD medication must be taken, then educating yourself of its side effects proves to be of great help to keep a continuous track of your body, actions and emotions and see whether the side effects are having any detrimental effect or not. New studies keep on revealing newer results on such side effects and you will definitely benefit from keeping yourself updated on them. In fact, no information is too small as far as adult ADD medication is concerned.

In almost all cases, regulated and conscious self-suggestions like �I can do it,� �I must do it,� �I am capable of it,� prove to be extremely helpful in managing the symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder, and minimizing adult ADD medication as well.

Herbal remedies are based on the belief that the causes behind symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder are diet, allergies, food intolerances, low muscle tone, anxiety, depression, family problems, poor discipline and at times other forms of illness.

What is ADD after all? Apart from the hyperactive behavioral symptoms, ADD is characterized by symptoms that hamper the ability of a person to concentrate and focus on daily routine tasks. The experts of herbal remedies contend that the psycho-stimulant drugs prescribed by the conventional system of treating ADD are harmful and addictive. Doctors and psychiatrics are known for prescribing drugs like Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall that expose ADD patients to risks of addiction and harmful side effects.

Natural remedies are mostly based on the pharmacopoeia of Ayurvedic, (the science of holistic ancient Indian medicine), Chinese and Western Naturopathic drugs, all of which are basically herbal and derived from natural elements, devoid of any synthetic content.

Centella asiatica is a well-known alternative to standard Western allopathic medicine for a variety of ailments including senility and is commonly used for increasing concentration, brainpower and vitality. The herb is usually administered in the form of herbal tea. However, excessive use of this herb can interfere with hypoglycemic medication and may cause headaches and therefore it is administered under supervision alone.

Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) is said to prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain that promotes memory functions, as it contains acetyl-cholinesterase inhibitors. Lower levels of acetylcholine have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and loss of memory.

Panax Ginseng is one of the most prescribed herbs in the Chinese pharmacopoeia and is often termed as �the wonder drug.� Its properties are known to enhance, among other things, physical performance, the immune system, motivation, vitality and memory.

As with other diseases, all regimes of natural remedies take a holistic approach in treatment of the symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder and take into account lifestyles, personality, environment and emotional background of the patient before prescribing a specific medicine for adult ADD.

All said and done, a word of caution needs to be added here. Manufacturers of natural remedies are not required to carry safety studies before selling natural or herbal remedies and there have been cases of fraudulent practices where over the counter prescription drugs are sold as �herbal remedies� The mistaken belief that a drug used for centuries is bound to be safe works in favor of those indulging in such frauds. The fact is manufacturers of such �so called� natural remedies are not required to submit records or report adverse episodes to the FDA.

There is no herbal medicine available which meets the criteria laid down by the FDA for regulated medicines and many times they do not contain the ingredients that the labels profess to contain. Moreover, use of herbal medicines is known to interfere with conventional drugs by either aggravating or restraining their functions. But the fact remains that genuine herbal drugs can help in obliterating symptoms of adult ADD without causing side effects that can otherwise be alarming.

When adults are diagnosed with ADD, they have oftentimes carried the same symptoms throughout their life, although other disorders should be ruled out first. Discover how adult ADD can be confused with anxiety with help from a licensed mental health counselor in this free video on adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Moreover, in some ADD patients, positive traits like creativity, liveliness, flexibility, hyper focus, and intelligence are so accentuated that association of the symptoms with ADD becomes all the more difficult.

Whatever the claims of the manufacturers selling prescription or over the counter drugs, ADD does not have a cure and one has to live with it for a lifetime. The drugs that are used to treat ADD carry warnings of side effects of these drugs that range from liver disorder to suicidal tendencies.

The aspect of the treatment of the symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder which is often underplayed is that adults who recognize that the challenges they face are related to ADD can learn to manage their lives with the aid coaching, professional organizing and other resources. It is only after this option has been tried that the aid of adult ADD medication should be sought.

The symptoms of adult deficit disorder in adults are very subtle and subjective and the absence of any standard criteria for confirming the diagnosis makes the treatment and evaluation of ADD all the more difficult. Psychiatric conditions similar to ADD include depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, substance abuse and personality disorders need to be first eliminated before evaluating symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder.

As such, if consistent self reports result in a positive diagnosis, either or both the following two options should be considered:

* Manage ADD with professional help and aid from a strong support system (if available) and conviction that it is a neurobiological condition and not a weakness of will
* Adult ADD medication.

Pharmacotherapy of adult ADD medication mainly includes stimulants and antidepressants. Stimulants are used to correct the imbalance of dopamine and norepinephrine caused by catecholamine metabolism in the cerebral cortex. The stimulants currently available, though well tolerated can cause the symptoms of adult deficit disorder to aggravate. It is thus advisable to observe the already disturbed sleep and diet patterns after administration of stimulants. Also, due the fact that the effects of stimulants on blood pressure can vary, hypertension in adults too has to be monitored.

Antidepressants can be helpful in adults to control instability and mood disturbances. Although stimulants and antidepressants act differently, in some cases the use of both can prove beneficial.

Adult ADD medications, such as Ritalin, Strattera, and some others drugs have been endorsed for use by adults but all drugs should be approached with caution. It is also advisable to keep track of any new side effects that are often added, after studies indicate new difficulties, to the already known side effects.

Imagination plays havoc with a person�s brain, it is better to check out the facts rather than let your imagination run wild and lead yourself to anxiety. Better ways of getting over anxiety is by praying, meditating, humor, sharing worries with friends rather than rushing to medication.

If anxiety has been caused by some real world situation it is better to make corrections in that situation rather than giving in to the perception that it is caused by ADD and look for easy medication solutions. Anxiety is also caused by medical conditions like, reactive hypoglycemia when the sugar level in the body falls. Such conditions warrant a change in diet rather than adult ADD medication.

It is very important to keep in mind that although anxiety and ADD run side by side, it needs to be determined whether symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder have been caused by anxiety or the other way around.

Anxiety can cause excessive restlessness, fatigue, mind going blank, irritation, unsatisfying sleep, and tension in muscles, all of which can be easily but erroneously, construed to be symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder.

As it is, lot of the psycho-stimulant drugs that are usually prescribed for ADD patients, are by themselves enough reason to worsen the condition of anxiety. Rather it is often advised that stimulants like caffeine and decongestants should be eliminated from the diet. Caffeine alone is known to aggravate anxiety and induce panic attacks. It is, thus, imperative that adult ADD medication be administered only after it has been clearly established that anxiety has been caused by ADD symptoms and not the other way around.

ADD is indicated only when at least six symptoms are manifested continuously for more than three months. Anxiety excessive or moderate, is simply one of the symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder and need not necessarily be indicative of a condition of ADD. If you see signs of anxiety, it does not necessarily mean that it has been caused by ADD. There could be many other reasons for it. Neglecting this and rushing towards adult ADD medication may result in getting caught in the vicious circle of drug-induced anxiety or anxiety due to external worldly situations.

Increase Brain Function Naturally, Don’t Medicate & Mask the Symptoms

With summer vacation more than half over, the start of the new school year is quickly approaching. As anxious parents start the preparations for getting their children back-to-school, the parents of children with learning disabilities cope with the added pressure of a potentially rocky transition from an easy summer schedule to the structured school environment.

This transition can be very difficult for children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) because they often have tremendous difficulty behaving in a structured environment, performing well academically and even simply getting schoolwork completed.

The hardest part for children with learning disorders like ADD and ADHD is that they genuinely want to be able to focus, do their work and learn without distraction like their peers, but it is simply too hard for them to achieve on their own.

In many cases, these children become extremely frustrated with learning because regardless of the effort they put forth, they oftentimes cannot stay focused or retain the necessary information.

Experts are constantly striving to better understand learning disorders like ADD and ADHD, and recently scientists and specialists at the Organization for Human Brain Mapping in Minneapolis discovered a very important link. They linked ADHD to problems with memory, finding that the condition may actually cause the sections of the brain devoted to memory retention and recollection to under-perform.

The OHBM recorded: “Besides attention problems, children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often show deficits in working memory functions. Working memory maintains and manipulates information and is crucial for every-day functioning.”

This interesting discovery serves as an important reminder. ADD and ADHD are commonly thought to affect a child’s ability to concentrate, focus or “sit still”, and oftentimes teachers and medical professionals will recommend heavy medications as the initial treatment for ADD or ADHD simply to mask these “disruptive” symptoms. However, if a child is dealing with memory troubles in addition to these symptoms, it only makes it harder for them to overcome their disease.

It is important to recognize that prescription medications carry the potential risk of side effects and do not treat the child’s condition as a whole. Merely treating the symptoms of ADD and ADHD will not help your child to truly overcome their condition.

Native Remedies advocates a natural approach to ADD and ADHD treatment. There are numerous natural medicines, herbs and homeopathic remedies available that have been used for thousands of years to improve brain functioning, increase concentration and improve the ability to focus.

Unlike the commonly prescribed stimulants and amphetamines which only treat the symptoms of ADD and ADHD, natural remedies can help improve the overall health of the child, by strengthening the power of their brain and its function.

These natural remedies actually help increase the brain’s ability to recall and retain information by increasing the flow of oxygen and blood within the brain. They have proven to be extremely effective and carry a very low risk of side effects – especially when compared to prescription medications.

* Focus Formula improves concentration and attention, and calms high energy levels.
* BrightSpark improves concentration, mental focus and calmness, and helps to overcome behavioral problems.
* Focus ADDult improves concentration, focus and attention span in adults.
* StudyPlus improves concentration, mental clarity, memory and brain function.

The OHBM is an extremely important entity in the field of ADD and ADHD research and awareness. Their study highlights the fact that children with ADD and ADHD are not unable to learn or concentrate on work because they are unable to sit still; but instead that ADD and ADHD actually inhibit the brain’s ability to function at its fullest potential.

By encouraging the brain to actually heal itself, natural and herbal remedies can help children overcome the difficulties they have, instead of just masking them.
Brain Tonic improves concentration, memory and balanced mood in all ages.

As the new school year approaches, you can help your child cope with their ADD or ADHD in a healthy, natural and effective way. By treating their condition as more than simply the sum of their symptoms, you can help them mature into healthy, confident and well-adjusted young adults.

“We finally found the answer – with NO side effects! Our son is now 12. We have been struggling since pre-school with teachers, family, doctors and almost every ADD prescription out there. We called it quits when they wanted us to try the one where he would have to have his blood pressure taken throughout the day! The following is a note from our son’s 6th grade teacher just one month after using Focus and BrightSpark:” Hello! Well, I’ve seen a bit of an improvement since my last e-mail 2 wks ago. Again, I see him smiling and happier! Sometimes he doesn’t need any reminders to get to work! I actually just passed out an assignment and he is sitting and working on it!! He still gets a bit squirrelly, but his disruptions to the class are very minimal! He seems to be doing his assignment notebook without me telling him. Or, at least he has it filled out and ready to go when I ask him… it used to be blank! He still has some blank moments when I ask him about an assignment and he doesn’t remember it right away. When I give him clues, the light bulb goes on! Overall, whatever has been done, I believe it to be extremely positive! I truly believe that if you continue and keep up whatever you are doing, he will get a brand new start next year and it will be a good year! He is a great kid and I truly did enjoy having him in class! ” – Happy As Can Be, WI, USA

“I ordered Focus Formula for my daughter who couldn’t focus or concentrate on her school work. The teacher said it was like she was in her own little world especially when it came to doing subjects that were boring to her and had a hard time understanding. [I] can’t believe the difference since she had been taking Focus. The teacher said it was like a light had turned on in her head! She said that she is so tuned in now. (We didn’t tell her that she was taking Focus, we wanted to see if she had seen any difference in her). Thanks for the wonderful product. We didn’t like idea of putting her on medication so it was so nice to find something natural. Wish we had discovered it years ago. It would have save a lot of frustration and tears on our part, our daughters and her teachers. So glad I found this website.” – Cindy, Canada

“Hi guys, today is probably one of the happiest days of my life. My 8 year old son is on Focus and BrightSpark‘ he has taken the above 2 for the past 5 days. His teacher left a message on my job and home phone until he finally got me on my cell phone during his lunch break, I was so scared that my child was ill or fell or something else negative. Needless to say he was calling to tell my he was blown away in the difference with my child. He was attentive, involved, sharing, and focused during class. He then asked my what was going on? I then mentioned your company and the items my son was taking. When I came home, I played the teachers message over and over again. I was so happy I actually started to cry. I have to admit I was not a whole believer in non conventional medicine, but that has certainly changed. I will very happily recommend Native Remedies to everyone. Thank you and God Bless You. ” – Suzan C., NY, USA

The good news is that it is possible to get ADD-related financial disorganization under control and begin to enjoy a more stable relationship to your money. ADD and Your Mon… More >>

ADD and Your Money: A Guide to Personal Finance for Adults With Attention Deficit Disorder

If adult ADD medication has been prescribed, it is all the more important to follow the instructions of the physician to the last word as even small changes in dosage and the period for which it should be administered can make a vast difference.

Adult ADD drugs need to be administered only after proper analyses of the patient, as adults are likely to be on drugs for other ailments too. Such drugs often result in side effects that duplicate the symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder and can lead to confusion and even worsen the condition.

Prescribing adult ADD medication requires proper communication between the patient and the doctor. The doctor, on seeing a poor response of the patient to the medicine prescribed initially, will work with the patient to find another drug or a combination of drugs to control symptoms. Most of these drugs, however, require closer monitoring during the preliminary phase of the treatment.

Often more than one medicine is required to treat adult ADD, as adults are more likely to have multiple related symptoms like depression and anxiety. As such, treating adult ADD in a cavalier fashion can prove to be very dangerous and more often than not can aggravate the symptoms that it was intended to cure.

While prescribing adult ADD medication, the physician chooses from a variety of drugs available. In many cases medications that act on some of the same brain receptors as nicotine or for lowering blood pressure are used to control ADD symptoms. The physician may also have to consider options of prescribing a single drug, a combination of drug, or of slow or instant release drugs.

Over the past decade or so, options in medication have increased manifold. Stimulant medication like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine compounds (Dextrostat, Dexedrine Spansules and Adderall) are more often than not a frequent starting place in the pharmacological treatment of adult ADD. Different individuals require different dosages depending upon their body weight.

Whereas other stimulants, such as, amphetamine and some other tricyclics like Desipramine are known to have a response rate of 60 to 80%, there are non-stimulant adult ADD medications too. Atomoxetine is the first non-stimulant medicine, specifically approved by FDA in November 2002, for treatment of symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder. It strengthens those nerves that use norepinephrine to send messages. Norepinephrine is a catecholamine precursor of epinephrine that is secreted by the adrenal medulla and also released at synapses. Atomoxetine does not appear to affect the dopamine systems as directly as do the stimulants.

The need of the day, however, is that physicians require some more serious research on how adults respond to various drugs to enable them to develop second and third line treatment strategies for treating complex symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder.

We Recommend:

Focus ADDult is a natural, safe and proven herbal remedy, clinically formulated to effectively treat symptoms of adult ADD without the side effects of psychiatric drugs. This remedy treats the symptoms of adult ADD naturally to improve focus and ability to concentrate; Increase attention span; boost memory functioning; increase motivation and energy levels; increase study skills; boost immune functioning and protect against illness and reduce distractibility.  Focus ADDult is specifically formulated for adults and teenagers with ADD. Children and adults with ADHD, with hyperactivity, should use Focus Formula, while children with ADD (no hyperactivity) should use BrightSpark.

If this does not convince you let us look at the results of some of the studies conducted in different parts of the world. The first study that linked ADHD with lower levels of essential fatty acids was conducted in 1981. A similar study conducted in 1983 found lower levels of essential fatty acids in children with ADHD.

In an independent study conducted in Oxford, researchers reported that ADHD symptoms improved in children who received essential fatty acids in their diet. In 1996, researchers at Purdue University reported that boys with low levels of omega 3 fatty acids had higher incidence of ADHD. It is postulated that consumption of a diet that is high in protein content helps in alleviating symptoms of ADHD.

A research conducted at the George Washington University reported that the hyperactive children who consumed a meal that was high in protein content performed equally well and sometimes better than non hyperactive children at school. Another research showed lower levels of iron in about thirty three percent of children suffering from ADHD. Another interesting observation was that lower levels of iron lead to higher severity of symptoms.

It has also been observed that children who are suffering from ADHD have a higher probability of suffering from food allergies. It is postulated that presence of allergens in foods leads to a poor absorption of essential nutrients like zinc and vitamin C. In a controlled study, when the researchers removed these allergens, the hyperactivity in children reduced. When these allergens were reintroduced in the diet, the children again started showing the symptoms of ADHD. Though this link has not been proven conclusively, there is no harm in trying this method.

It is prudent to consider nutrition as one of the first aspects of treatment, be it as an alternative treatment or used in conjugation with pharmaceutical drugs. To summarize, one should modify the diet in such a way that it contains a judicious mix of proteins, vegetables and complex carbohydrates. Processed foods and simple sugars should be eliminated from the diet. The diet should contain required amounts of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and mineral and at the same time it should be free from food allergens. This will ensure that the production and utilization of energy is controlled effectively by the body, thereby resulting in a better focus and calm behavior.

A proper diet coupled with other forms of ADHD treatments like medication and behavior therapy can offer the best results in alleviating this condition. It is important that the diet plan be drawn up by an expert. If you are skeptical about feeding drugs to your child, you can try out natural medicines for ADHD treatment. Nowadays, natural remedies for ADHD are also becoming popular though these have not been scientifically studied.

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homeopathy focuses on the treatment of each patient as an individual addressing all expressions of a person, be it mental, emotional or physical. The best part of a homeopathic treatment is that its remedies are gentle yet powerful and at the same time have minimal or no side effects.

All homeopathic remedies are based on natural resources and do not have any synthetic element. The basic principle is that a drug in its diluted form will cure an individual of the symptoms that the same drug induces when administered in its crude form.

The homeopathic regime has a peculiar system of dilution whereby rectified spirits are added to the mother tincture in ratios of nine or ninety-nine to one depending upon whether the decimal or the centesimal scale is being used.

The admixture is then shaken vigorously number of times and further diluted and shaken in the same manner to arrive at the desired potency. The homeopath uses a particular potency of a remedy based on the acute or chronic nature of the symptoms and the comparative significance of physical to mental symptoms and at the same time keeping in mind that higher potencies have a faster effect.

As such, in the matter of adult ADD medication, a homeopath will treat on the basis of the totality of the symptoms present in the patient at the time of examination rather than on the basis of labeled symptoms of adult deficit attention disorder.

Before prescribing adult ADD medication, a homeopath will first prepare a ‘symptom profile’ peculiar to the particular patient after making a list of all symptoms and noting the medical and family history. He/she will also give credence to the way external factors like change in weather, temperature, preference in diet and mental attitudes manifest themselves in the patient.

The homeopathic approach is a personalized one. This translates, in the matter of adult ADD medication, into a system where both inattention and hyperactive behavioral symptoms of adult deficit disorder are taken together while examining the patient along with external factors that are normally ignored by other systems of treatment. For example a symptom of adult attention deficit disorder can manifest itself in a patient due to either inattention or hyperactivity or both. Moreover, homeopathy will treat individuals differently on the basis of his/her overall personality.

Despite all that has been written about homeopathy and its merits about how it scores over other treatment regimes, it can prove effective in only in cases of mild to moderate symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder. The decision whether homeopathic adult ADD medication is required or not is better left to the doctor as some cases may require to be treated in the traditional manner.

Related Natural Product

BrightSpark is a natural, safe and proven complex homeopathic remedy, clinically formulated to treat the symptoms of ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) without the side effects of prescription drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall. BrightSpark has been specially formulated for children under 12 years of age to help then to relax and calm down; be less impulsive; listen more carefully; follow instructions; concentrate better; be less distractable; achieve better results at school or work. Adults and teenagers with ADD should use Focus ADDult herbal formula. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, BrightSpark is recommended for use with Focus Formula and is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

The first condition is more prevalent in males whereas the second condition is more common in females. Though, this condition has been extensively studied in children, it is only now that attention is being slowly diverted towards adult ADHD. And therefore, now there are some specific ADHD treatments for adults.

Children with ADHD are often overactive, impulsive and inattentive. These symptoms are also true for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD. However, with increase in age some of these symptoms change. Studies have suggested that with age hyperactivity reduces though the problem in concentration remains a constant.

A young person, who is making a transition from the structured environment of school to a self-regulated life at college, normally faces difficulties with executive and planning abilities. Most of the times, adults who are afflicted with this condition are not aware of it and they learn to live with the problems that this condition poses without actually knowing that they are afflicted with ADHD. Such people commonly have a problem with independent adaptive functioning like getting organized, keeping an appointment or even getting to work on time.

Problems with social skills can lead to high levels of stress in relationships, leading to a higher probability of family violence and divorce. The individuals who grow into adults with ADHD have many negative perceptions of themselves that leads to low self-esteem. Adults with ADHD are also prone to substance abuse and may even exhibit anti social behavior.

It is comparatively difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults and therefore, it is important to seek the help of a clinician who is trained in the field of attention dysfunction. A correct diagnosis is as important as administering ADHD treatment, be it pharmaceutical medicines, natural medicine for ADHD or natural remedies for ADHD.

Scientists have developed certain clinical criteria that help in identifying this condition in adults. This criterion is commonly known as the Utah Criteria. Other methods used for diagnosis are Connors Rating Scale and Brown Attention Deficit Disorder Scale. To be confirmed as an adult with ADHD, the onset of this condition should have happened in the childhood and should have been persistent.

Related Natural Product

Focus ADDult is a natural, safe and proven herbal remedy, clinically formulated to effectively treat symptoms of adult ADD without the side effects of psychiatric drugs. This remedy treats the symptoms of adult ADD naturally to improve focus and ability to concentrate; Increase attention span; boost memory functioning; increase motivation and energy levels; increase study skills; boost immune functioning and protect against illness and reduce distractibility.

Focus ADDult is specifically formulated for adults and teenagers with ADD. Children and adults with ADHD, with hyperactivity, should use Focus Formula, while children with ADD (no hyperactivity) should use BrightSpark. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, Focus ADDult is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

Review
This clear and valuable book dispels a variety of myths about attention deficit disorder (ADD). Since both authors have ADD themselves,… More >>

Driven To Distraction : Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder from Childhood Through Adulthood

Earlier studies indicated that over 20% of school-age children were affected with this disorder, although there seems to now be a more conservative estimate of 3-5% that is accepted. In addition, approximately 1 in 82 (or 1.21% or 3.3 million) people overall in the United States alone have been diagnosed.

The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) put out a report that suggested 1.6 million elementary school aged children had been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is considered to be one of the most common mental disorders in children.

Studies also demonstrate that almost half the number of children who receive an ADD/ADHD diagnosis will have some other form of learning disability as well.

Another common finding, is the fact that a diagnosis is more common in boys than in girls, with results showing anywhere from 3 10 times more likely for boys to be diagnosed. In addition, White non-Hispanic children seem to be more than twice as likely as Hispanic and black non-Hispanic children to be diagnosed with ADHD.

The next finding that seems to be fairly common is the role that health care plays in an ADD and ADHD diagnosis. Children who belong to families with good health care coverage report far higher numbers of ADHD diagnosis than those without health insurance. Obviously, the children with good coverage will be having more doctor visits and more contact with a mental health care professional than someone without coverage.

These findings have led to much discussion over whether or not cases of ADD and ADHD are being over-diagnosed among those who have regular and proper health insurance coverage. And, in that light, perhaps the children who do not receive the adequate health care are being under-diagnosed.

Whatever the findings, the statistics with Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder show that it is a condition that is on the rise. It can be hard to get a real understanding of how accurate much of the statistics are due to the fact that many people in the world do not having access to proper medical care.

Not only that, but perhaps the medical profession may be adding to the confusion of the statistics by giving an ADD/ADHD diagnosis too easily. In the end, the statistics that are available give enough answers to realize that it is a condition that society needs to continue researching.

Many will suffer from poor organizational skills, periods of hyperactivity as well as problems concentrating on tasks. In order to deal with these troublesome symptoms each day, sufferers will need to come up with items to help attention deficit disorder.

Each person will be unique in the symptoms they struggle with, and therefore the coping tools that will work for one person may not necessarily work for the next. It will be up to the individual and their families to figure out exactly what works best for them.

Some examples of every day coping tools that have worked for many people include:

• Hanging wall calendar with pockets. These are great to be able to mark down exactly what needs to be done each day as well as to be able to put things like tickets, bills and other items that may be needed on that particular day.
• White board calendars. These are also very effective because they can be tailored exactly for each individual. Lists can be added and they can be made daily or for a period of days at a time.
• Alarm clocks or timers. These will serve as reminders of a task that needs to be done. They can also work to structure time blocks of work that will be easier to tackle in shorter periods.
• Headphones or ear plugs. If there are many distractions around the person, these will help to keep the outside distractions to a minimum, allowing them to focus better on the task at hand.
• Tape recorder. A small tape recorder can be very useful for being able to instantly record thoughts and reminders that can help the person to recall later.
• Special computer software. Make use of specialized computer software that can help with organization, as well as assist with other tasks like writing, grammar checking, and calculating.

There are many things that can be used to assist with everyday tasks. It is important to discover what will work the best for each person, focusing on areas that they have the most difficulty with.

Whether it is a child or an adult, there will be certain items to help attention deficit disorder in their own personal lives. Thankfully, there are more options available now for sufferers to be able to assist them in keeping their lives in more order, such as more sophisticated computer software that can really help with problems they run into every day. It is important to find out what works for that person, and use it to make their lives more manageable.

Focus Formula is a natural, safe and proven herbal remedy, clinically formulated to effectively treat symptoms of ADHD without the side effects of psychiatric drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall.  Focus Formula treats the symptoms of ADHD naturally to reduce hyperactivity and restlessness; calm, soothe and reduce mood swings; improve concentration, memory and attention span; improve alertness and mental focus; calm over-active minds; reduce impulsiveness and aggression.

Focus Formula is formulated for children and adults with ADHD. Adults with ADD (no hyperactivity) should use Native Remedies Focus ADDult, while children with ADD (no hyperactivity) should use BrightSpark for ADD. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, Focus Formula is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

There have been improvements in diagnosing the condition, with one common tool being the Connors rating scales for Attention Deficit Disorder.

The Connors rating scales revised (CRS-R) are just one step towards diagnosis. It consists of paper and pencil questionnaires that are to be filled out by parents and teachers to determine whether or not the child in question may have ADD/ADHD. It is taken to determine a diagnosis for children between the ages of 3 and 17 years old that is exhibiting symptoms.

When using the Connors rating scale, the doctors can assess behaviors that the parents and caregivers have witnessed over periods of time. They will be able to get insight into behaviors that are witnessed by those who interact with the child every day.

There are actually three Connors tests one for parents, one for teachers and another one for adolescents to rate their own behavior. There are long and short versions of the test and they will take anywhere from 5-30 minutes to complete.

The Connors test is also useful for following up on a childs progress after diagnosis and starting treatment. The test will essentially be able to help measure degrees of hyperactivity in children through routine testing, get a better perspective on behavior from those who observe it daily, establish a base for starting treatment and to monitor changes over time, and provide a good picture for diagnosis.

The Connors rating scale is very good for diagnosing those with symptoms, and although it can be administered by a non-professional it is important that the results only be interpreted by a professional. And, it is important to remember that, like any screening test, it is not perfect and will be at risk of providing false positives (diagnosis when it is not actually present), and false negatives (no diagnosis when it is in fact present). That is why it can only be one part of the diagnostic process, and many other factors must be considered before giving any diagnosis.

Cases of ADD and ADHD continue to rise, and whether or not that is due to external conditions or simply because there are better diagnostic tools available, it is important to recognize a child with these symptoms and get them on a proper treatment plan. And, just as important as the treatment, is the continuing monitoring and follow-up testing to be sure that they are getting the best possible treatment for their symptoms.

If your child is suspected to be demonstrating symptoms, you will likely come across the Connors Rating Scales for Attention Deficit Disorder at some point during the process of diagnosis.

BrightSpark is a natural, safe and proven complex homeopathic remedy, clinically formulated to treat the symptoms of ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) without the side effects of prescription drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall.

BrightSpark has been specially formulated for children under 12 years of age to help then to relax and calm down; be less impulsive; listen more carefully; follow instructions; concentrate better; be less distractable; achieve better results at school or work. Adults and teenagers with ADD should use Focus ADDult herbal formula. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, BrightSpark is recommended for use with Focus Formula and is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

When my son was in second grade, I was told by a teacher that it was ‘necessary’ that he go into special ed classes – which really meant “I don’t want to deal with him or do my job and since I’m lazy, we’re going to label your son for life.”

If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, please get the proper testing done and get a second opinion. Teachers and doctors are not all-knowing gods. They are valuable and highly trained human beings who are nonetheless capable of mistakes and personal agendas.

Additionally, check out the side effects of prescription meds before allowing your child to take them – and please research natural alternatives to ADHD treatment!

~Dee

(CNN) — As a toddler, Ian Barrier got expelled from day care.

“They just said that he was all over the place, he couldn’t handle the structure, they didn’t have the staff or the skills to deal with it,” said his mother, Amy Barr. “They said, ‘We think he has ADD or ADHD’ and I’m like, ‘What is that?”

Ian, now 11, and his 9-year-old brother Aidan are just two examples of some 5 million children in the United States who have received the diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a condition marked by impulsive behavior and a lack of focus.

But although this is a medical condition with medical treatments available, often doctors aren’t the ones suggesting a diagnosis.

Many parents begin their struggles with treating their children’s ADHD the way that Barr did: with a suggested diagnosis from a school or day care setting. That’s a problem, doctors say, when there could be many other factors contributing to a child’s behavior.

For a teacher to suggest that a child has ADHD is “inappropriate and dangerous,” says Dr. Elizabeth Roberts, child psychiatrist in Murrieta, California. Depression, anxiety and abuse are all possibilities in a child’s life that could lead to attention problems, Roberts said. That means that many children are receiving medication for the wrong problem.

Roberts wants to say to all educators: “There are many, many diagnoses that cause these problems, including abuse and depression and anxiety. So please, withhold your judgment.”

Read the rest of this story HERE

BrightSpark is a natural, safe and proven complex homeopathic remedy, clinically formulated to treat the symptoms of ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) without the side effects of prescription drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall.

BrightSpark has been specially formulated for children under 12 years of age to help then to relax and calm down; be less impulsive; listen more carefully; follow instructions; concentrate better; be less distractible; achieve better results at school or work.

Adults and teenagers with ADD should use Focus ADDult herbal formula. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, BrightSpark is recommended for use with Focus Formula and is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is a diagnosed disorder which affects concentration, attention span and the ability to focus on the task at hand.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity) is usually much easier to identify. Apart from their difficulties with concentration and memory, children and adults with ADHD often have associated behavioral problems in class, at home and in the workplace, due to their impulsive behavior and hyperactivity. (For safe and effective treatment for ADHD, see Focus ADHD Formula.)

Children and adults with ADD (without hyperactivity) often go un helped and undiagnosed. They may be very intelligent people, but because of their concentration and memory problems they perform poorly at school or college and seldom reach their full potential.

They often feel listless and can lack motivation and energy because of their constant struggle to concentrate and focus on their work. Sometimes they can even develop depression, because of their inability to achieve and negative feedback from those around them.

Children and adults with ADD are often unfairly called ‘stupid’, ‘dumb’, ‘lazy’ and other hurtful names, when all they need is some help and understanding.

What are the symptoms?

• Easily distracted by sounds and other things happening in the environment
• Difficulty in following instructions and completing tasks despite the desire to do so
• Forgets and neglects chores and tasks often
• Difficulty concentrating and maintaining focus on the task at hand
• Short attention span
• Tendency to daydream
• Often seems not to be listening
• Forgets what has been studied very quickly
• Often loses possessions or forgets appointments
• Often loses track of time

How does Focus ADDult for Adult ADD work?

Adults and teens who suffer from ADD have previously had to resort to prescription psycho-stimulant drugs with their dangers of addiction and side effects.

Michele Carelse, our Clinical Psychologist, has many years of experience with both adults and children who struggle with the symptoms of ADD and ADHD.

Recognizing the growing need for a safe and natural alternative for adults and teens with ADD, Michele has formulated Focus ADDult for Adult ADD, using a specially selected therapeutic blend of herbs from around the world, specifically to address the symptoms of Adult ADD.

Use Focus ADDult for Adults with ADD to:

• Improve focus and ability to concentrate
• Increase attention span
• Boost memory functioning
• Increase motivation and energy levels
• Increase study skills
• Boost immune functioning and protect against illness

For children under 12 years with ADD please refer to Brightspark

Focus ADDult for Adult ADD contains the following proven ingredients:

Using a concentrated medicinal extract from three powerful herbs from Chinese, Ayurvedic (Indian) and Western naturopathic medicine, Focus ADDult works in three ways:

The principle ingredient, Centella asiatica, promotes mental clarity, enhances memory and brain function and helps to alleviate anxiety. This medicinal herb is so highly respected in Ayurvedic medicine for its effect on the mind, that it is even said to increase knowledge of Brahman – the supreme reality. Recent studies have suggested that Centella asiatica improves cerebral blood flow (CBF) and circulation in general, thereby allowing oxygen rich blood to penetrate deep into the brain.

Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) is well-known as an all round tonic and energizer. Like Centella asiatica, it also promotes CBF. Recent studies have found that Rosemary contains acetyl-cholinesterase inhibitors, chemicals that prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine is a brain chemical which is involved in memory functioning and acetylcholine deficiency has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and memory impairment.

Panax Ginseng has been used in Chinese medicine for more than 5000 years and is one of the most prized and expensive Chinese herbs. It is used to reduce stress, increase energy and motivation, strengthen the immune system and decrease fatigue. Studies have shown that Panax ginseng enhances physical performance in athletes, while the Soviet scientist, Dr Brekham, identified it as a superior adaptogen, normalizing body functions, reducing stress and preventing disease. Further studies in Japan and India have demonstrated that rats fed with Panax ginseng were able to learn tasks quicker, perform at a faster rate and make fewer mistakes than those in the control group. Panax ginseng should not be confused with either Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosis) or American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius).

How has Focus ADDult for Adult ADD helped others?

“I started with Focus ADDult and immediately felt better. Not trusting my feelings I went to my doctor to get a prescription for Strattera. Strattera not only didn’t work any better, but made me feel sick and drugged everyday. I immediately came off of it and started back on my Focus ADDult. I will swear by this stuff! I feel more mentally alert and it is not my imagination. I have also recently purchased Mellowpause and have immediately felt the difference. I highly recommend these products. They work!!!”

“I was diagnosed by the college psychologist with adult ADD three weeks ago. I have been taking 5mg. of Adderall three times a day and then increased to 10mg twice a day and a 5mg tablet as my third dose. I ordered the Adult focus and have been taking it in half doses with the Adderall and have noticed an even clearer outlook and better concentration, and this has just been 4 days.” – Kathleen H, USA

“Wish I had this years ago! Focus ADDult has been a life and work saver!” – Diana N, USA

&”For a long time my 14 year old son struggled in school and it wasn’t so much that his grades were bad, it was the fact he would get bored and lazy. He turned his attention towards doing things that disrupted class which rewarded him with being marked down. He began to lose interest in school and didn’t care anymore. When he was younger, the counselor had suggested having him tested for ADD and having him put on Ritalin or the equivalent. I told her that when I found a natural alternative, that is what he would take. My son did not have all the symptoms associated with ADD, but had one or two and that was enough for me to start him the focus adult. Well to this day, his teachers are stunned!! Where did this kid come from they ask me? These are the same educators that told me my son was not “A” material. He hasn’t received a perfect 4.0 but at least he has been able to add a few A’s to his report card. I try to tell the world about what this product has done for me, but my small voice doesn’t compare to the big drug companies who continue to poison our children. So my fight goes on to help anyone that will listen to this great testimony of my son. I am so thankful to native remedies and I’m very proud of my son!! Success breeds Success!!!” – Mandy K, USA

“Great Product!!! I’m off Strattera after only 2 weeks, and this works even better!” – Shelley, TX, USA.

“I just wanted to Thank You, Thank you, Thank you for your Focus ADDult. I have a child (12 year old 6th grader) that has been having trouble with her grades for several years. I have had her tested for every learning problem and even sent her to the expensive tutoring service you see on TV. NOTHING worked. I did a search for ADD med alternatives as I don’t think children should be on prescriptions unless it is a last resort. My daughter has been taking your Focus ADDult for about 5-6 weeks and she has not one failing grade now on her report card. Last report card we had 3. All her grades are up to C’s. She feels good about herself and doesn’t say anything about drinking her “smart water” that she drinks every day. Ha. I’m also thankful you have the drops as she has trouble swallowing pills. The drops have saved her. I have signed up for the reorder program and plan to NEVER be out of this magic herb ever! Thank you so much!” – Vickie, Tennessee, USA

” I found your web site just by searching & ordered focus ADDult, I have been taking it every day. Am I imagining things or am I more alert & focused these days? I seem to have more energy; my paper work is all up to date, what’s happening? I seem to have a clear head !” – Amanda, Suffolk, UK

“This works wonderfully! My family thanks you!!!!!!!!!!” – Anne, Fl, USA

How do I use Focus ADDult?

Dosage: 10 – 15 drops in a little water three times daily or as prescribed.

Caution: Not recommended during pregnancy or for children under 12 years old.

If symptoms of mild depression are exhibited, Focus ADDult may also be used together with MindSoothe

How long until I see results?

Focus ADDult contains three highly effective tonic herbs in concentrated medicinal extract. It is important that it be taken regularly in order to enhance the overall tonic effect.

While some people show a more immediate effect, you can expect to notice a difference in energy levels and mental clarity from about the third week of use.

Concentration, focus and memory should improve and this improvement should increase over time and with continued use.

You will notice that you can think more clearly and in a more focused way. Students and scholars should notice an increased concentration span and the ability to study effectively for longer periods of time.

Be aware that lifestyle factors like diet, health and fitness levels will all play a part in concentration and overall cognitive functioning.

While Focus ADDult is highly effective on its own, its effectiveness will be increased with regular exercise, sufficient sleep and a healthy, balanced diet.

How long will a bottle last?

One bottle of Focus ADDult at full adult dosage (10-15 drops three times daily) will last 20-25 days.

A 60-75 day supply of 3 bottles is offered at a discount

The toxic effects of aspartame are varied. It has been connected to mimicking the signs of or worsening the following: chronic fatigue and immune deficiency syndrome, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, attention deficit disorder, panic disorder and more. The toxic effects of aspartame use may include dizziness, ringing in the ears, migraines, confusion, irritability, depression, insomnia, rapid heart beat, chest pains, memory loss, weight gain, hair thinning/loss, abdominal pains, food cravings, hypertension, increased infections and much more. (See links below for further information.)

The following article includes a summary of the history of aspartame as we printed it in our 1999 issue, along with some new research and information. As with the history of many other known toxins (such as MSG and fluoride), it is distressing to see our government’s involvement in allowing such substances to be used by big industries and sold (and, in some cases, even touted as ‘healthy’) to the general public – every one of us! It has been said that aspartame may be one of the most toxic substances in our food supply today and that aspartame related problems may be seriously compromising our health, often without our knowledge.

A Controversial History

Aspartame was discovered accidentally in 1965 by a scientist at the G. D. Searle Company. Because it is nearly 200 times as sweet as sugar and has no calories, it looked to have enormous potential, especially in the diet industry.

Searle began safety testing aspartame in 1967, in hopes of getting FDA approval, but encountered many problems – the animals that were fed aspartame (most usually small monkeys) kept dying. Searle spent tens of thousands of dollars in testing, and applied for FDA approval in 1973. Although several scientists found Searle’s testing “shoddy” and recommended that further testing was necessary, the FDA granted approval for use in dry foods.

Objections from consumer advocacy groups finally sparked the FDA to re-investigate aspartame in 1976, leading to a Grand Jury proceedings against Searle for “concealing material facts and making false statements” in their safety tests.

Now, get this: In 1977, Searle’s law firm offered a job to the U. S. Attorney in charge of the investigation, Samuel Skinner. Skinner accepted the job and left the government, thus stalling the investigation so long that the statute of limitations ended and the investigation was dropped.

In 1980, a Board of Inquiry asserted that aspartame should not be approved due to the possibility of its causing brain tumors in animals. However, in yet another sneaky government-big business move, the CEO of Searle became part of Ronald Reagan’s transition team. This former head of Searle handpicked Dr. Arthur Hayes, Jr., as the new FDA Commissioner. Over the strong objection of three FDA scientists, Hayes approved the use of aspartame in dry products.

Can the story get any worse? Yes, it can. In 1983, the National Soft Drink Association urged the FDA to delay the approval of aspartame in beverages since it was known to be very unstable in liquid form. (When stored above 85 degrees F., aspartame breaks down into diketopiperazine and formaldehyde, two known toxins.) Other objections were also filed with the FDA regarding aspartame approval. When a controversy regarding taking unauthorized rides on a General Foods jet (General Foods being a major customer of NutraSweet) forced FDA Commissioner Hayes to resign in 1983, he was promptly hired as a consultant to Searle’s public relations firm.

Thus it happened that the first carbonated beverages containing aspartame were sold for public consumption in 1983.

Current Findings

Aspartame is still under investigation and still very controversial. Most recently, scientists at the independent European Ramazzini Foundation for Cancer Research presented new results from their three-year study of the effects of aspartame on nearly 2,000 rats. Their research concluded that aspartame is a “multipotential carcinogen,” causing dose-related cancer of the kidney and tumors in the peripheral nerves, mainly the cranial nerves of the head. Earlier data from the same study linked aspartame to an increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma in female rats at doses that were “very close” to the acceptable daily intake for humans.

Interestingly, the researchers also found that though the rats fed aspartame ate less food than those rats in the control group, there was no difference in weight between the two groups.

Although various manufacturers of aspartame have objected to these latest findings, claiming insufficient investigation and biased results, there is no denying that the same type of results with regards to the dangers of aspartame has been found in study after study, in numerous countries around the world.

In 1996, Dr. Ralph G. Walton, Chairman at the Center of Behavioral Medicine and Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine conducted an analysis of peer-reviewed medical literature regarding aspartame. Specifically, Walton investigated 164 studies, 74 of which had aspartame industry-related sponsorship and 90 which were funded without industry money.

Of the 90 non-industry studies, 83 (or 92%) found one or more problems with aspartame. Of the remaining 7 studies, 6 were conducted by the FDA. (And, given the history of how various government officials were offered jobs by the aspartame industry following approval of the substance, many consider these findings to be not much more than industry-sponsored research.)

Of the 74 industry-sponsored studies, all claimed that no problems were found with aspartame. No big surprise there, and many compare it to tobacco industry research, in which tobacco companies don’t find a link between cigarettes and cancer, though independent studies most certainly do.

As two doctors noted in a 1995 Indian medical journal, “Scientific reasoning and a large body of evidence indicate that this product should not be in the market. However, paradoxically, use of products containing aspartame is on the rise.” The doctors suggest that there are many reasons for this, the main being a lack of awareness of the adverse effects of aspartame, both by the general public and the medical community. In addition, aspartame is obviously well protected by the strong clout of the billion-dollar drug and chemical companies which manufacture and sell it, as well as by those companies who use it as an ingredient in their products. The doctors conclude, “It must be kept in mind that aspartame is not an essential life-saving drug but a food additive meant to pamper our sweet tooth.” It is for this reason that some refer to aspartame as the “Sweet Poison.”

What Can You Do?

There are several excellent websites that focus on the dangers of aspartame, such as www.holisticmed.com. The following information on avoiding aspartame comes from their site, as does the Healthy Sweetener User Guide below.

Avoiding aspartame can sometimes be tricky as it is found in so many products and because its existence is sometimes hidden on food labels. That is, aspartame may be lumped with other ingredients as “inactive ingredients” on a food label. Other times, it is not listed at all, although you may spot it if you see the warning “Phenylketonurics: Contains Phenylalanine,” which indicates aspartame is used in the product.

Aspartame can be found on the ingredients list in the following products: soft drinks, over-the-counter drugs and prescription drugs (commonly listed under “inactive ingredients”), vitamin and herb supplements, yogurt, instant breakfasts, candy, breath mints, cereals, sugar-free chewing gum, cocoa mixes, coffee beverages, instant breakfasts, gelatin desserts, frozen desserts, juice beverages, laxatives, milk drinks, shake mixes, tabletop sweeteners, tea beverages, instant teas and coffees, topping mixes, wine coolers – and the list goes on.

It is important to check labels carefully and compare ingredients against the list of known sweeteners to avoid (below). If you have children, you may want to pay special attention to cereals, candy, gum, etc. Also, be aware that your children may be given aspartame or other artificial sweetener-containing foods or drugs at school without your knowledge. Talk to the school director and to the local PTA to assure that this does not happen.

Many people find it much easier to avoid toxic sweeteners by shopping at health food stores or in the healthy foods section of your grocery. Many health food stores have banned artificial sweeteners (especially aspartame) for obvious reasons. But it is still important to check labels as some health food stores are unknowingly selling aspartame, acesulfame-k, and sucralose.

Healthy Sweetener Use Guide

Sweeteners to Avoid

* Aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal, Canderel)
* Neotame
* Sucralose (Splenda)
* Acesulfame-K (Sunette, Sweet & Safe, Sweet One)
* Cyclamates
* Saccharin
* Refined sugar*
* High fructose sweeteners*
*These can be used in very small amounts while transitioning to healthier sweeteners.

Sweeteners to Use

* Stevia (Stevia is also safe for diabetics)
* Evaporated cane juice
* Fruit juice
* Rice syrup
* Honey
* Licorice Root (small amounts)
* Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
* Amasake
* Maple Syrup (Without Added Sugar)
* Barley Malt
* Sugar Alcohols (Xylitol*, Sorbitol)
*Use in small amounts. Avoid if you have bowel disease.

Note: Many diabetics can use some amount of healthy caloric sweeteners such as evaporated cane juice. Check with your healthcare practitioner for more information.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

* www.alaskawellness.com – This is a link to Alaska Wellness Magazine’s other articles on Aspartame.
* www.dorway.com – Includes many articles and research documents regarding aspartame poisoning, and links to diabetic alternatives to aspartame and support groups.
* www.holisticmed.com Links to case histories and documents on aspartame toxicity as well as recent news articles.
* www.aim4health.com – Features an article by Mary Nash Stoddard, founder of Aspartame Consumer Safety Network Inc.
* www.nutrasweet.com – For the company view, here’s the folks who make and sell aspartame, in the form of NutraSweet.

Healthy Sweetner Use Guide courtesy of www.holisticmed.com.

We recommend:

BrightSpark is a natural, safe and proven complex homeopathic remedy, clinically formulated to treat the symptoms of ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) without the side effects of prescription drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall. BrightSpark has been specially formulated for children under 12 years of age to help then to relax and calm down; be less impulsive; listen more carefully; follow instructions; concentrate better; be less distractible; achieve better results at school or work. Adults and teenagers with ADD should use Focus ADDult herbal formula. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, BrightSpark is recommended for use with Focus Formula and is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

This book was written for college students, their counselors and educators. Based on the real life experiences of seven adults who were interviewed as part of a research study, this book offers a vivid picture of how college students with ADD can cope and find success in school.

Readers will find information on the history, causes, and characteristics of ADD and methods of diagnosis and treatment.Practical information focuses on what students with ADD can d… More >>

Succeeding in College With Attention Deficit Disorders: Issues and Strategies for Students, Counselors and Educators

What is ADD?

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is a group of symptoms that affects concentration and a person’s ability to focus.

It can also cause mood swings, impulsiveness, behavioral and other social problems. Children with these problems have difficulty in completing their school work and are often in trouble with parents and teachers.

What are the causes of ADD?

There are many different causes and explanations for the symptoms of ADD including diet, allergies, food intolerances, anxiety, low muscle tone, anxiety, depression, family problems, poor discipline and even some forms of illness.

Unfortunately some doctors and therapists do not do a thorough assessment and simply prescribe potentially harmful psychiatric drugs without considering what the causes the problem might be.

BrightSpark ADD Remedy will help your child to:

• Relax and calm down
• Be less impulsive
• Listen more carefully
• Follow instructions
• Concentrate better
• Be less distractible
• Achieve better results at school or work

Why should you use BrightSpark?

Our Clinical Psychologist, Michele Carelse, has worked for many years with children and adults who struggle with the symptoms of ADD, as well as with children’s parents and teachers.

As a result, she has discovered that a combination of natural remedies, healthy diet, and a structured and caring approach will usually result in a dramatic improvement.

In consultation with experts in the field of natural and homeopathic medicine, she developed BrightSpark – a 100% homeopathic formula to treat the symptoms of child ADD without the potentially dangerous side effects associated with many psychiatric drugs.

BrightSpark is a safe and effective remedy, especially and tested over the years in the treatment of hundreds of children in her practice. Feedback from parents and teachers has been consistently good.

Many adults and children with ADD are highly creative and intelligent individuals with a wonderful sense of humor!

BrightSpark will keep you ‘Bright and Sparky’, while at the same time helping you to focus and pay attention, without the risk of addiction, drowsiness and other side effects.

How has BrightSpark helped others?

My child’s pediatrician recommended this as an alternative. I am so glad he did. My 5 year old is a changed person. He is happier with himself and even looking forward to kindergarten…………2 months ago he was afraid he would not fit in because as he put it…….”I just can’t calm down”. Really he is a changed kid. If you are having doubts about ordering, rest assured I was too. It is the best thing I could have done for my son. – Mrs Morgan, CT, USA

I have an 12 yr old son, who has been on BrightSpark for about a year. My son’s teacher’s and family members have seen a wonderful change. He can follow instructions, has increased his learning skills and best of all has been able to enjoy having close friends. Before it was hard for him to enjoy friendships because of his low self – esteem. But now, he is much happier and outgoing. Native Remedies is Great!!!! – Deanne, PA

I have been very pleased with the product. This is my first reorder, and I don’t plan on trying to live without Brightspark! My sweet boy is back! – Michele K. Virginia

“Do you get tired of hearing “THANK YOU” What a godsend this product has been for our family. My 11 yr old grandson went through every medicine for ADD that was on the market. Not one did what it was supposed to do. He was moody, angry, loosing weight, chewing his fingers to the nubs, doing very poorly in school, all of these potential side effects of the chemical medications. We tried brightspark, and in a matter of a few days (I know its supposed to take a few weeks) we noticed a change. He is much more relaxed, concentrating in school and getting better grades and just a pleasant person to be around. My daughter and I can’t thank you enough. Our only regret, WE DIDN’T TRY IT SOONER. Thank you again ps we have recommended this to our friends and they tried it for their daughter and are getting excellent results too. You should have ads in every Doctor’s office in America!!” – Maggie, USA

My son is 10 years old. He has had a problem with concentration ever since I can remember. Over the years this has led his self esteem to suffer as well as hindered his potential in class. He has now been on BrightSpark for one month. Everyone who knows my son has remarked as to how much calmer and how much his self esteem has improved. In class, his marks have improved greatly. I am very happy to have found the BrightSpark solution and would recommend this to all parents. Many of my friends and colleagues have heard me talk about the product and have asked for the internet site.- Lynn, Ottawa, Canada

I am sooooo happy with your products. Our two children use Kiddie Calmer and BrightSpark for ADD. Their grades have improved tremendously and our home life is a lot less stressful! Thank you so much for a wonderful product line! – Christine, PA, USA

I was incredibly skeptical that this stuff would work! I use both the focus and brightspark and we are all amazed at the difference in our now quiet home and happy girl!!! – Priscilla R.

I started my 7 year-old on both Focus for ADD and BrightSpark approximately 3 weeks ago. Last year while on meds. I received calls from school on the 2nd-day. He has received all A’s in behavior each day this year, and is a much happier/cheerful child. No more sleeping pills at night. Concentrates better at school at on homework. Does not get upset as easily. Since he’s been off regular meds (tried Concerta, Strattera, Adderall, etc – NOTHING WORKED) – he weighed 48 lbs – since not taking those any more he has gained 20-lbs in 2 months!! I too was skeptical about the Focus/BrightSpark – but I am now hooked and recommending this to everyone!!! God Bless You – Roni, MD, USA

I initially bought BrightSpark for my seven year old son who has difficulties with staying focused and on-task in school. I have not taken him to a doctor to have specific testing done and to actually find out from a medical professional whether or not he has ADD. His teacher and principal both believe that he does and they want him on Ritalin – I will not allow it. He has been on BrightSpark now for about eight weeks and I can really see an improvement in him. My older son who is nine, asked if he could try it because he was having a hard time focusing in class – I thought that he was just wanting to take it because his little brother was taking it but I let him. He has been taking it now for about six weeks and his teacher contacted me last week and said that she has noticed a real improvement in him during school. She said he is more alert and focused and is not getting into to trouble during class. He has also expressed to me that he is not acting out in class anymore! THANK YOU BRIGHTSPARK!!! Both of my kids are now starting to enjoy school just as they did when school first started this year – it’s wonderful to see them excited about school again!- Debbi, MO

Safe for children!

“Children have problems too! Many medicines for children contain additives, artificial color and preservatives. Some are addictive and others may cause side effects which end up being worse than the condition that they are supposed to treat. Even some of the more natural, herbal medicines should not be given to children under the age of 12, unless supervised by a health care practitioner! Parents are understandably concerned and may feel confused about what they can and can not give their children. As a Psychologist and as a parent, I have seen a need for safe, effective and healthy natural remedies especially formulated for children’s health. Together with Native Remedies, I have spent a lot of time in researching and formulating a range of natural remedies especially for young children. All remedies are herbal or homeopathic and carefully chosen for maximum effect and maximum safety, to safely heal and solve your child’s problem – naturally.

While herbal remedies help to heal and promote health, homeopathic remedies work by strengthening the child’s own body to heal itself. The remedies are non-addictive and presented in child-safe doses. No artificial colors or preservatives are used and manufacturing is in accordance with the highest pharmaceutical standards.”

- Michele Carelse, Clinical Psychologist

BrightSpark is a highly effective complex homeopathic formula containing the following proven ingredients:

Hyoscyamus (30C) is typically used for the control of behavioral problems and over excitability.

Tuberculinum (30c) is a homeopathic remedy often used for hayfever and also for soothing irritability.

Arsen Iod. (30C) is used homeopathically to control restlessness and irritability, as well as temper outbursts and impatience.

Verta Alb. (30C) can assist in the control of emotional imbalance.
Treatment | Testimonials | Ingredients | Dosage | Ask Us | FAQ’s

How do I use BrightSpark?

Dosage: BrightSpark comes in very small sucking tablets (can be chewed as well, and have a pleasant taste) taken 2 at a time, 3 times daily.

The second dosage can be taken at 3 p.m. or 4 p.m. for those children that are in school. Use on an empty stomach.

Avoid strong mint flavored candies, mint has long been recognized as an antidote to homeopathic remedies

BrightSpark can also be used together with Focus ADHD Formula. Focus works very quickly to help the symptoms of ADHD while BrightSpark is taking effect to heal the causes.

How long until I see results?

Response times vary from individual to individual, based on their physiological make up, and are greatly increased if the recommendations are followed regarding diet, TV and consistent discipline. (see our ebooklet, provided free with every order)

Some individuals show an immediate improvement which increases over time, while others will see results after 3 – 6 weeks.

Regular use is important!

How long will a bottle last?

One bottle of BrightSpark will last 20 days.

Recent research reviews indicate that drumming accelerates physical healing, boosts the immune system and produces feelings of well-being, a release of emotional trauma, and reintegration of self. Other studies have demonstrated the calming, focusing, and healing effects of drumming on Alzheimer’s patients, autistic children, emotionally disturbed teens, recovering addicts, trauma patients, and prison and homeless populations. Study results demonstrate that drumming is a valuable treatment for stress, fatigue, anxiety, hypertension, asthma, chronic pain, arthritis, mental illness, migraines, cancer, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, paralysis, emotional disorders, and a wide range of physical disabilities. Research studies mentioned below indicate that drumming:

Reduces Tension, Anxiety, and Stress

Drumming induces deep relaxation, lowers blood pressure, and reduces stress. Stress, according to current medical research, contributes to nearly all disease and is a primary cause of such life-threatening illnesses as heart attacks, strokes, and immune system breakdowns. A recent study found that a program of group drumming helped reduce stress and employee turnover in the long-term care industry and might help other high-stress occupations as well.(1)

Helps Control Chronic Pain

Chronic pain has a progressively draining effect on the quality of life. Researchers suggest that drumming serves as a distraction from pain and grief. Moreover, drumming promotes the production of endorphins and endogenous opiates, the bodies own morphine-like painkillers, and can thereby help in the control of pain.(2)

Boosts the Immune System

A recent medical research study indicates that drumming circles boost the immune system. Led by renowned cancer expert Barry Bittman, MD, the study demonstrates that group drumming actually increases cancer-killing cells, which help the body combat cancer as well as other viruses, including AIDS. According to Dr. Bittman, “Group drumming tunes our biology, orchestrates our immunity, and enables healing to begin.”(3)

Produces Deeper Self-Awareness by Inducing Synchronous Brain Activity

Research has demonstrated that the physical transmission of rhythmic energy to the brain synchronizes the two cerebral hemispheres. When the logical left hemisphere and the intuitive right hemisphere begin to pulsate in harmony, the inner guidance of intuitive knowing can then flow unimpeded into conscious awareness. The ability to access unconscious information through symbols and imagery facilitates psychological integration and a reintegration of self. Drumming also synchronizes the frontal and lower areas of the brain, integrating nonverbal information from lower brain structures into the frontal cortex, producing “feelings of insight, understanding, integration, certainty, conviction, and truth, which surpass ordinary understandings and tend to persist long after the experience, often providing foundational insights for religious and cultural traditions.”(4)

Accesses the Entire Brain

The reason rhythm is such a powerful tool is that it permeates the entire brain. Vision for example is in one part of the brain, speech another, but drumming accesses the whole brain. The sound of drumming generates dynamic neuronal connections in all parts of the brain even where there is significant damage or impairment such as in Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). According to Michael Thaut, director of Colorado State University’s Center for Biomedical Research in Music, “Rhythmic cues can help retrain the brain after a stroke or other neurological impairment, as with Parkinson’s patients…” The more connections that can be made within the brain, the more integrated our experiences become.

Induces Natural Altered States of Consciousness

Rhythmic drumming induces altered states, which have a wide range of therapeutic applications. A recent study by Barry Quinn, Ph.D. demonstrates that even a brief drumming session can double alpha brain wave activity, dramatically reducing stress.(5) The brain changes from Beta waves (focused concentration and activity) to Alpha waves (calm and relaxed), producing feelings of euphoria and well-being. Alpha activity is associated with meditation, shamanic trance, and integrative modes of consciousness. This ease of induction contrasts significantly with the long periods of isolation and practice required by most meditative disciplines before inducing significant effects. Rhythmic stimulation is a simple yet effective technique for affecting states of mind.

Creates a Sense of Connectedness with Self and Others

In a society in which traditional family and community-based systems of support have become increasingly fragmented, drumming circles provide a sense of connectedness with others and interpersonal support. A drum circle provides an opportunity to connect with your own spirit at a deeper level, and also to connect with a group of other like minded people. Group drumming alleviates self-centeredness, isolation, and alienation. Music educator Ed Mikenas finds that drumming provides “an authentic experience of unity and physiological synchronicity. If we put people together who are out of sync with themselves (i.e., diseased, addicted) and help them experience the phenomenon of entrainment, it is possible for them to feel with and through others what it is like to be synchronous in a state of preverbal connectedness. “(6)

Helps Us to Experience being in Resonance with the Natural Rhythms of Life

Rhythm and resonance order the natural world. Dissonance and disharmony arise only when we limit our capacity to resonate totally and completely with the rhythms of life. The origin of the word rhythm is Greek meaning “to flow.” We can learn “to flow” with the rhythms of life by simply learning to feel the beat, pulse, or groove while drumming. It is a way of bringing the essential self into accord with the flow of a dynamic, interrelated universe, helping us feel connected rather than isolated and estranged.(7)

Provides a Secular Approach to Accessing a Higher Power

Shamanic drumming directly supports the introduction of spiritual factors found significant in the healing process. Drumming and Shamanic activities produce a sense of connectedness and community, integrating body, mind and spirit. According to a recent study, “Shamanic activities bring people efficiently and directly into immediate encounters with spiritual forces, focusing the client on the whole body and integrating healing at physical and spiritual levels.

This process allows them to connect with the power of the universe, to externalize their own knowledge, and to internalize their answers; it also enhances their sense of empowerment and responsibility. These experiences are healing, bringing the restorative powers of nature to clinical settings.”(8)

Releases Negative Feelings, Blockages, and Emotional Trauma

Drumming can help people express and address emotional issues. Unexpressed feelings and emotions can form energy blockages. The physical stimulation of drumming removes blockages and produces emotional release. Sound vibrations resonate through every cell in the body, stimulating the release of negative cellular memories.

“Drumming emphasizes self-_expression, teaches how to rebuild emotional health, and addresses issues of violence and conflict through _expression and integration of emotions,” says Music educator Ed Mikenas. Drumming can also address the needs of addicted populations by helping them learn to deal with their emotions in a therapeutic way without the use of drugs.

Places One in the Present Moment

Drumming helps alleviate stress that is created from hanging on to the past or worrying about the future. When one plays a drum, one is placed squarely in the here and now. One of the paradoxes of rhythm is that it has both the capacity to move your awareness out of your body into realms beyond time and space, and to ground you firmly in the present moment.

Provides a Medium for Individual Self-Realization

Drumming helps reconnect us to our core, enhancing our sense of empowerment and stimulating our creative _expression. “The advantage of participating in a drumming group is that you develop an auditory feedback loop within yourself and among group members – a channel for self-_expression and positive feedback – that is pre-verbal, emotion-based, and sound-mediated. “(9) Each person in a drum circle is expressing themselves through his or her drum and listening to the other drums at the same time. “Everyone is speaking, everyone is heard, and each person’s sound is an essential part of the whole.”(10)

Each person can drum out their feelings without saying a word, without having to reveal their issues. Group drumming complements traditional talk therapy methods. It provides a means of exploring and developing the inner self. It serves as a vehicle for personal transformation, consciousness expansion, and community building. The primitive drumming circle is emerging as a significant therapeutic tool in the modern technological age.

References
1. Bittman, M.D., Barry, Bruhn, Karl T., Stevens, MSW, MT-BC, Christine, Westengard, James , Umbach, MA, Paul O, Recreational Music-Making, A Cost-Effective Group Interdisciplinary Strategy for Reducing Burnout and Improving Mood States in Long-Term Care Workers, Advances in Mind-Body Medicine, Fall/Winter 2003, Vol. 19 No. 3/4.
2. Winkelman, Michael, Shamanism: The Neural Ecology of Consciousness and Healing. Westport, Conn: Bergin & Garvey; 2000.
3. Bittman, M.D., Barry, Composite Effects of Group Drumming…, Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine; Volume 7, No. 1, pp. 38-47; January 2001.
4. Winkelman, Michael, Shamanism: The Neural Ecology of Consciousness and Healing. Westport, Conn: Bergin & Garvey; 2000.
5. Friedman, Robert Lawrence, The Healing Power of the Drum. Reno, NV: White Cliffs; 2000.
6. Mikenas, Edward, Drums, Not Drugs, Percussive Notes. April 1999:62-63.
7. Diamond, John, The Way of the Pulse � Drumming with Spirit, Enhancement Books, Bloomingdale IL. 1999.
8. Winkelman, Michael, Complementary Therapy for Addiction: Drumming Out Drugs, American Journal of Public Health; Apr 2003, Vol. 93 Issue 4, p647, 5p
9. Mikenas, Edward, Drums, Not Drugs, Percussive Notes. April 1999:62-63.
10. Friedman, Robert Lawrence, The Healing Power of the Drum. Reno, NV: White Cliffs; 2000.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Drake is a nationally recognized writer, rhythmist, and shamanist. He is the author of The Shamanic Drum: A Guide to Sacred Drumming and I Ching: The Tao of Drumming. Michael’s journey into rhythm began under the tutelage of Mongolian shaman Jade Wah’oo Grigori. For the past 15 years he has been facilitating drum circles and workshops nationwide. To learn more, visit Michael’s website.

Much research has been done to prove that one of the recurring the difference between children with ADD symptoms and those without is the difference in the levels of essential fatty acids. The first such connection was made in 1981 when researchers examined essential fatty acid levels in children with behavioral problems and found them to be less than required. Purdue University researchers have boys with levels of Omega-3 in their blood have a higher frequency of attention deficit disorder.

A study conducted by Oxford University showed that the symptoms of ADD children improved significantly after their diet was supplemented with essential fatty acids as compared to the control group.

Fatty acids play a key role in making brain and nerve tissues and are crucial during the growth phases of the child. They aid proper mental growth and also strengthen the immune system.

There two kinds of fatty acids ‘ Omega-3 and Omega-6 and it is essential to understand the source of these fatty acids since the body cannot synthesize them and they need to be ingested through diet in the system. Omega-3 can be found in salmon, mackerel and herring and Omega-6 can be found in most cooking oils like sunflower, soybean and corn oil. Though the western diet provides enough opportunities for the intake of Omega-6 through the edible oils, many children refuse to eat fish like salmon and mackerel. In such cases you should try flax seed or flax oil.

Other manners in which you can provide essential fatty acids is by EFA supplements like fish oil, DHA / EFA supplements and primrose oil. Try and eat good fats like olive oil, fish oil and canola oil. Reduce the intake the quantity of hydrogenated fats and avoid food additives.

With a little bit of care and management of the diet to include adequate amounts of essential fatty acids in your diet, you will realize that you can make a great difference and may only need some amount of herbal remedy for ADD to keep things under control.

Even though studies estimate that almost 3.5% of the population is affected by ADD, diagnoses of ADD is a controversial issue, since many experts believe it to be a psychological rather than a biological disorder.

Following are the symptoms of a person who suffers from this condition:

1. Inability to focus attention to detail, making careless mistakes while going about daily work schedule
2. Appearing not to listen when spoken to
3. Ignoring instructions or finishing tasks
4. Avoiding tasks that require higher levels of mental effort
5. Frequently losing items required for the work at hand
6. Getting distracted easily
7. Excessive forgetfulness

However, the presence of either of the above symptoms is not a conclusive sign of ADD. A person requires adult ADD medication only if at least six of the above symptoms are manifested in a person continuously for more than three months.

There is a prevailing association of depression with ADD. Usually depression starts later than the first onset of ADD, as with time, the predominant symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder tend to shift from external visible ones to the internal symptoms of Mood Disorders such as Major Depression, Dysthymia (Chronic low-level depression) and Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depressive Disorder.) It cannot be however, ignored that depression can be a side effect of adult ADD medication as stimulants have been known to aggravate depression and mania.

Depression is viewed as being different from feelings, commonly known as �blues� that every one experiences sometime in one�s life. �Blues� are normal and simply a transitory feeling of sadness or demoralization during difficult times. Depression is an illness and is indicated only when a person cannot snap out of or get over such feelings within a reasonable period of time, say, two weeks. Depression is a pervasive feeling of sadness that refuses to go away even with a conscious effort.

Some of the major symptoms of depression are a noticeable change in appetite accompanied with significant weight loss or weight gain, change in sleeping patterns such as fitful sleep, insomnia, sleeping too much, feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, feelings of inappropriate guilt, loss of energy, fatigue and loss of interest in formerly enjoyed activities. The most serious symptom of depression that requires immediate adult ADD medication is when suicidal tendencies start showing.

An even more alarming fact is that parents and medical practitioners are too eager to medicate and feel that the problem will just go away. In fact it is known that allopathic treatments only reduce or cure symptoms and not the core issue. This means that irrespective of the ADD treatment that one is being administered the same or similar symptoms are bound to reoccur. Moreover, allopathic medication is known to have abundant side effects and these side effects are numerous when it comes to the stimulants and other medications that are generally prescribed for child ADHD treatment. Peter R. Breggin, M.D. Director, International Center for the Study of Psychiatry and Psychology says ‘The drugging of children has gotten so out of hand that America is waking up to this. This is a national catastrophe. I’m seeing children who are normal who are on five psychiatric drugs’.

Due to some of these statements and the side effects that parents can see in their children there is a movement towards evaluating and trying out alternate treatments for all conditions including attention deficit disorder. While some people opt for an herbal remedy for ADD, there are others that look for a solution in homeopathy.

Specifically speaking, homeopathy is fast increasing in popularity and for once the traditionalists are also accepting the successes that the stream of medicine is achieving. The homeopathic practitioners have also woken up and are conducting many clinical trials to prove the efficacy of their medication and approach.

When a case of ADD is referred to a homeopath, he does not only treat the condition but the individual who had the problem. He tries to bring the individual to a balanced state by studying the pattern of symptoms of the person. Though there are many medicines in homeopathy that can be used to treat ADD there is only that will match the unique set of symptoms for a particular person.

The approach that homeopathy takes is a holistic one in which various other behaviors and preferences are also taken into account. The doctor will study multiple aspects like whether the patient prefers cold beverages or hot, the kind of dreams he has, various fears and phobias and also whether there has been a history of any specific health condition that may or may not be linked to ADD.

That is why there are various medicines that can actually be used for ADD and the right one can only be decided by the homeopathy practitioner after studying the specific characteristics and symptoms of the individual. Homeopaths may prescribe Adrenocorticotropin Hormone as an anti allergy, L Dopa Phenolic for chronic anxiety and depression, Gamma Aminobutyric Acid Phenolic to reduce bouts of anger and hostility or Calcarea Carbonica for apprehensions and worries.