ADHD is the most common disorder that is prescribed a medication without a second thought. Here at Chattanooga BrainCore, we believe there is a different solution! Our solution is drug-free and completely non-invasive. It’s called neurofeedback. Through neurofeedback, we decrease the hyperfocus brainwave speeds and increase the calm focus speeds.
If you are unsure of neurofeedback or want to do more research, we welcome you to take all the time you need! Here are a few tips to help manage those symptoms while you decide what’s right for your family.
Tip #1: Establish a Routine (and follow through!)
Structure and routine help create a foundation for every day to begin on. This is helpful for anyone, but especially kids and, in particular, kids with ADHD. A routine can be simple. Before bed every night, clothes for the next day are laid out, toys are cleaned up and back packs are packed and ready by the door. A morning routine can be even more simple, brush teeth & hair, put on clothes that were laid out, and go to the kitchen for breakfast.
That is something you do even day, for the most part! But making system and an order of operation can make a huge difference in your child’s life.
Tip #2: Lead by Example
Follow through with tip #1 and create a routine for yourself! Not only will you lead by example, but you teach yourself that everything has a time and place. Routines contribute to low-stress environments that you and your kids can benefit from and thrive in.
Tip #3: Self-Care
Self-care is a recent phenomenon. We are realizing how important and precious mental health is. While this one is more for you, rather than your child, it’s just as important. I like to think of self-care like a vessel of water. In order for me to “pour out” at work or at home, I have to be re-filled otherwise I deplete my source. No one can pour out from an empty vessel. A few ideas for self-care: 10 minutes of morning prayer or meditation time, daily afternoon walks, evening bath time, reading a good book a lunch break.
Tip #4: Set & Keep Clear Expectations
Especially those with ADHD, kids respond well to clear and defined expectations. Having these set create less chaos and stress which can provide flow for the home. As we talked about above, setting a routine can create flow in the home, but another way is to set clear expectations. And establishing a consequence/reward system to reinforce those expectations. While praise is imperative to encouraging correct behaviors, there should also be rewards that are far greater than the consequences so that it is worth the correct behavior. Dr. Trish Leigh says, “You will get more of what you focus on.” This is why it is so important to avoid focusing on the poor behavior, but focusing on the positive behavior and rewarding for it!
While this blog is kid-focused, adults struggle with ADHD as well! Each of these tips can help you thrive in your environment just as much as a child. All four of these tips are great tools for anyone who is looking for a calm to their chaos.