Hey there, amazing ADHD families! Did you know that over 6 million children in the United States are diagnosed with ADHD, and many of them are prescribed stimulant medications to manage their symptoms? While these medications can seem effective in the short term, they come with a long list of potential side effects, including sleep problems, decreased appetite, and even heart issues. It’s no wonder you might be looking for alternative ways to support your child’s health.
Every summer, we look forward to helping kids who are struggling with ADHD. Summertime provides a unique environment that can foster quicker healing, with less stress from early wake-ups, school routines, and homework pressures. For families considering a ‘medication break’ during these warm and sunny months, this period is perfect for exploring natural and holistic alternatives that can have a more profound impact than the busier, fully medicated seasons.
The Root Cause of ADHD
The root cause of ADHD often lies in neurological dysfunction and imbalances in the brain and nervous system. Early life experiences, such as fertility treatments, maternal stress, birth interventions, and infant challenges (like colic, reflux, and constipation), can contribute to its development. A dysregulated nervous system, marked by an overactive sympathetic (gas pedal) response and an underactive parasympathetic (brake pedal) response, plays a crucial role in ADHD. Subluxation, a state of repeated stress and tension in the nervous system, further disrupts neurological function, impacting bodily processes and neurotransmitter balance.
ADHD medications don’t address these underlying issues; they simply mask the symptoms. By taking a break from these medications during the summer months or holidays, you can give your child’s body a chance to reset and heal naturally without the interference of drugs and their side effects.
Supporting Your Child During a “Drug Holiday”
During a “drug holiday,” it’s important to focus on lifestyle factors that support your child’s health and development. This includes:
- Ensuring your child gets plenty of sleep
- Providing a nutrient-dense diet
- Encouraging regular physical activity and outdoor play
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing
While these lifestyle changes can help calm and regulate your child’s nervous system, they might not be enough on their own.
The Power of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care
This is where Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care comes in. Chiropractic adjustments help restore balance and function to the nervous system, improving sleep, focus, attention, and behavioral and emotional regulation. By addressing the root cause of your child’s ADHD symptoms, chiropractic care can help reduce the need for medications in the long term.
The nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating your child’s “fight or flight” response and their ability to “rest, digest, and regulate.” When your child struggles with focusing and regulating between the “gas pedal” and the “brake pedal,” it’s often a sign that their nervous system needs attention. Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care aims to help the nervous system adapt and regulate, so your child doesn’t have to be stuck on the gas 24/7.
As a parent, you have the power to take charge of your child’s health and well-being. If you’re ready to take a natural approach to managing your child’s ADHD symptoms, we can help!
Welcome to 3T Family Chiropractic in Olathe, KS
At 3T Family Chiropractic, located in Olathe, KS, Dr. Todd Williams specializes in helping children with ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders thrive without relying on medication. Our approach focuses on helping the nervous system adapt and regulate, ensuring your child isn’t constantly running on overdrive. Dr. Williams and our team are trained to identify and address the underlying causes of your child’s symptoms, paving the way for them to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
So, if you’re curious about how chiropractic care can support your child during a “drug holiday” and beyond, please reach out to 3T Family Chiropractic today! We’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.