Childhood is a time of exuberance and outpouring of energy, creativity, and learning. For many children, the early school years are increasingly frustrating because they find it difficult to sit still and focus. This frustration can lead to learning, behavioral and relationship issues. Many of these children may be suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

 

ADHD is the most common mental health complaint among children. The number of children, as well as adults, diagnosed with ADHD is increasing. Although many children display attention disorder behaviors as early as preschool, parents often dismiss them as signs of high energy. While most children are energetic, ADHD behaviors are extreme and often described as excessive, destructive, unsafe (due to impulsiveness and risk taking), detrimental to progress in school, and harmful to close personal relationships.

 

ADHD is one of many neurotransmitter-related conditions. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that relay signals between nerve cells, called “neurons”. These are present throughout the body and are required for proper brain and body functions. Serious health problems can occur if neurotransmitter levels are too high or too low. Some neurotransmitters are inhibitory and tend to calm the brain. Others are excitatory and have the opposite effect. When a child has elevations of excitatory neurotransmitters, he/she may have difficulty focusing or paying attention, or hyperactivity. Most of the time, a child is diagnosed by a subjective questionnaire and then placed on a drug based on symptoms rather than specific neurotransmitter function. At our office, we test neurotransmitters in the urine. Thereafter, we place the child on targeted amino acid therapy specific to their neurotransmitter imbalance. The amino acids come in powder or small capsules. Results have been successful and rewarding for the parents and child.