by Shae Marcus

October marks ADHD Awareness Month, an opportunity to shed light on a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that manifests in symptoms such as inattentiveness, impulsivity and hyperactivity. It affects both children and adults, but many go undiagnosed or are misdiagnosed due to the often-subtle nature of its symptoms. ADHD is classified as a hidden disability because its effects are not always immediately apparent, and understanding how to diagnose and treat it holistically can make a significant difference in individuals’ lives.

Diagnosing ADHD involves more than just a visit to a psychiatric office. Comprehensive evaluation through multi-disciplinary teams can provide a clearer and more accurate diagnosis. Institutions like the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and NeurAbilities Healthcare, in Voorhees, New Jersey, are two notable facilities that employ a multi-step diagnostic process. At these centers, patients undergo rounds of assessments that include cognitive testing, behavioral evaluations, and even neuroimaging in some cases, ensuring a thorough understanding of the individual’s condition before arriving at a diagnosis.

Along with traditional diagnostic methods, consulting functional health professionals can also be beneficial. For instance, comprehensive blood work can reveal whether imbalances, such as nutritional deficiencies or hormone disruptions, may contribute to ADHD-like symptoms. This step is crucial, as conditions like thyroid imbalances or vitamin deficiencies can mimic or exacerbate ADHD. A holistic approach not only aims to diagnose, but also considers underlying factors that may be influencing behavior.

While pharmaceutical intervention remains the most common form of treatment, there’s a growing interest in holistic approaches to managing ADHD symptoms. Several studies suggest that dietary factors can significantly affect the behavior of individuals with ADHD. Research has shown that artificial food colorings and high-sugar consumption can worsen hyperactivity and inattentiveness in children diagnosed with ADHD. A notable case study published in The Lancet examined 297 children and found that eliminating artificial food colorings and preservatives from their diet resulted in significant behavioral improvements, especially among those already diagnosed with ADHD. By eliminating or reducing these substances, parents may see notable improvements in their child’s behavior.

Functional medicine also emphasizes the importance of addressing underlying health issues, like gut health and nutrient deficiencies, which are often overlooked in conventional treatment plans. Nutritional supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium and zinc, have shown promise in reducing ADHD symptoms. Additionally, mindfulness practices, such as yoga and meditation, can be effective in helping individuals with ADHD develop better focus and emotional regulation.

The prevalence of ADHD in the U.S. is significantly higher than in many other countries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 9.4 percent of children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD, compared to 2 to 4 percent in Europe. Several theories exist on why this disparity exists. One hypothesis is that differences in diagnostic criteria between countries may account for the variance. In the U.S., the diagnostic process tends to be more lenient, resulting in higher rates of diagnosis. Another contributing factor could be the American diet, which is typically higher in processed foods, artificial additives and sugar compared to those elsewhere, possibly exacerbating ADHD symptoms in susceptible individuals.

Additionally, the American healthcare system’s focus on quick solutions may lead to an over-reliance on pharmaceutical treatments, sometimes at the expense of holistic and lifestyle-based interventions. This may contribute to the higher number of ADHD diagnoses, as some individuals may be misdiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms from other health conditions, such as anxiety or sleep disorders.

ADHD is a complex condition with many potential contributing factors. For those that suspect they or their child may have ADHD, pursuing a comprehensive and holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment is essential. Consulting specialized centers like CHOP or NeurAbilities Healthcare, exploring dietary changes and working with functional health professionals are all steps that can lead to more effective management of symptoms. As we recognize ADHD Awareness Month this month, it’s important to emphasize the need for greater understanding, better diagnostic practices and a wider acceptance of holistic approaches in treating ADHD.

With a more nuanced view of ADHD, we can offer individuals the tools they need to thrive in school, work and everyday life.