Beyond Medication: Evidence-based Non-Medical Care For ADHD

Although the benefits of medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been shown through numerous well-designed studies, medication alone rarely addresses the full range of issues caused by this complex neurobiological condition.   Most people with ADHD have ‘comorbid’ conditions, such as developmental delays, learning disabilities, or mental health disorders.  Executive function related difficulties persists even with optimal medical care, impacting home life, school performance, and work.  And ADHD also affects health routines in ways that undermine ADHD itself.   Lastly, while medications benefit up to ninety percent of people with ADHD, one in ten rely on other paths for treatment.

This talk emphasizes research around non-medical care for ADHD, outlining a holistic, evidence-based approach.   It includes a review of behavioral interventions, parent training, educational supports, and a discussion of evidence around complementary practices such as dietary interventions, exercise, mindfulness, and attention training.  Participants will gain a more comprehensive view of ADHD care that effectively integrates both medical and nonmedical options. 

3.    Learning Objectives:  

To understand the full impact of ADHD on executive function

To understand how comorbid disorders relates to managing ADHD in daily life

To understand research showing the potential benefits of ADHD medications, as well as their limitations

To create a comprehensive approach to ADHD that integrates research around behavioral, parenting, and educational interventions

To understand which complementary approaches have evidence either for or against their use