Attention, those affected by ADHD! Has your doctor ever suggested a Medication Break?!

Are you tired of relying on ADHD medications to manage your or your child's symptoms? Do you worry about the long-term effects of these drugs on your family's health? Have you heard about families taking a "drug holiday" during the summer months in order to help the brain and nervous system heal, recover, and get back to balance? If so, you're on the right track because there are, in fact, natural, drug-free options available to help manage ADHD symptoms.

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 may 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 may be seeking alternative approaches.

Summertime offers a unique environment that can provide quicker healing, with reduced stress from early wake-ups, school routines, and homework pressures. For families looking for a ‘medication break’ during these warm and sunny months, this period is ideal for diving into natural and holistic alternatives that can have a more profound impact compared to the busier, fully medicated seasons. 

The Root Cause of ADHD

The root cause of ADHD is often related to neurological dysfunction and imbalances in the brain and nervous system. Early life experiences, such as fertility treatments, maternal stress, birth interventions, and infant challenges (colic, reflux, constipation), can contribute to its development. A dysregulated nervous system, characterized 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 do not address these underlying issues; instead, they simply mask the symptoms. By taking a break from these medications during the summer months or holidays, you can give the body a chance to reset and heal naturally without the interference of drugs and their side effects.

During a "drug holiday," it's important to focus on lifestyle factors that can support health and development. This includes:

• Plenty of sleep

• Nutrient-dense diet 

• Regular physical activity and outdoor activity 

• Stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing

While these lifestyle changes can help calm and regulate the nervous system, they may 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 ADHD symptoms, chiropractic care can help reduce the need for medications in the long term.

As mentioned, the nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating the "fight or flight" response and the ability to "rest, digest, and regulate." Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care aims to help the nervous system adapt and regulate, so you or your child don't have to be stuck on the gas 24/7.

At Sunlife Chiropractic, we specialize in helping people with ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders thrive without relying on medication. Our approach focuses on helping the nervous system adapt and regulate, ensuring you or your child aren’t constantly running on overdrive. Dr. Tori Hartline is trained to identify and address the underlying causes of your family’s symptoms, paving the way for them to succeed. 

So, if you’re curious how chiropractic care can support your family during a “drug holiday” and beyond, please reach out to Sunlife Chiropractic today!