ADHD – Lifestyle Options
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurobiological disorder, a medical condition in which a person suffering from this has differences in brain activity and development. It is a chronic condition that is more common in current times. This is mainly because of the contemporary lifestyle and new challenges that come with it. The chronic condition shows up several behavioral and cognitive symptoms and affects an individual’s daily performance. It’s important to follow specific lifestyle options for ADHD to improve these symptoms.
It’s essential to know that this condition begins in childhood and continues into adulthood. Experts believe the condition is the result of genetic causes and environmental factors.
The lifestyle options for ADHD focus extensively on creating a treatment plan to beat the condition. Treatments include a combination of medications and behavioral modifications tailored to individual needs. These try to focus on:
- Developing the ability to control aggressive behavior
- Improving attention and the ability to focus
- Mastering emotions and irritability
- Combating absent-mindedness
- Improving the ability to remember important things
- Working on interpersonal and intrapersonal skills
- Enjoying a restful sleep and waking up fresh the next morning
The following lifestyle options for ADHD work wonders when incorporated into the individual’s daily routine regularly and in the right way:
● Create synergy
A combination of sleep, diet, and exercise throughout and after the treatment process will work wonders for the individual. In simple words, nutritious food enhances the energy for regular and intense exercises. The intense exercises, in turn, prepares the mind and body for deep and restful sleep. This is one of the multiple examples for creating synergy in the individual’s life that will help them combat their condition.
It is important for the parent or the individual to see what combination works best for their child or themselves. It is important to incorporate only those methods that work best for the individual and suits their lifestyle. Though sleep, diet, and exercise will not replace therapy and medication completely, a healthy combination of the aforementioned activities can significantly reduce the need for medication and therapy.
● Stress reduction and energy-boosting techniques
Practicing yoga and being active are some important lifestyle options for those suffering from ADHD. While exercising has numerous benefits to treat symptoms of ADHD, there are other types of physical activities to do outdoors. Going for on a walk in the morning amidst greenery has a therapeutic effect on the mind and body. Yoga, Tai Chi, and meditation are other simple forms of exercises greatly improve the individual’s ability to focus and calm themselves, consequently helping them combat their condition. Meditation also helps in controlling impulsive and violent behavior.
● Work on a sleep pattern and maintain a schedule
It is proven that once established, bad sleeping habits are difficult to correct. It is essential that the individual suffering from ADHD doesn’t watch television or use mobiles and other gadgets at least an hour before sleep. This ensures that they get a sound and restful sleep.