Get Help for ADD Naturally: Due to the possible side effects from prescribed stimulants, finding natural solutions is paramount, says Jef Gazley.

Attention deficit disorder/attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD) is a complex neurological disorder that, according to Daniel G. Amen, author of Healing ADD, is a genetic condition, and at the present time there is no cure. It is equally represented by children, adults, males and females, and we do not grow out of it.

Due to the possible side effects from prescribed stimulants, the need for natural solutions is paramount. An ADD protocol which consists of effective techniques for general neurotransmitter balance through diet and supplements and consistency in parenting is recommended.

Bacopa monniere (Indian pennywort), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and L-tyrosine are three supplements that help with brain balancing. Biofeedback and neurofeedback can help train the person with ADD how to focus better and relax. Yoga, hypnosis and meditation are also helpful. Tai chi and karate assist with discipline, calming and the increase of blood flow to the brain. It is also imperative to avoid simple carbohydrates in the diet.

However, the ADD protocol improves symptoms by only 30 percent. The key to treatment is activating the prefrontal cortex of the brain. At this time, there are only two treatments that have been shown by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) brain imaging to accomplish this. The first uses stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall. The second is a homeopathic blend called ADD-care. The addition of one of these agents has been purported to take care of the other 70 percent of treatment.

Jef Gazley, MS, LMFT, has practiced psychotherapy for more than 40 years and is the owner-operator of AskTheInternetTherapist.com, Hypnosiscdsandmp3s.com and EnergyPsychologyTherapy.com. He is licensed by the state of Arizona in general counseling, marriage/family and substance abuse counseling and is a certified hypnotherapist. For more information, call 1-866-998-0560 or visit add-care.com.