How to Optimize Natural ADHD Remedies and Find Clarity

Start by spending time outside and drinking yerba maté

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects 8 million adults in the United States.

Although the symptoms are well established by now, the causes aren’t clear. We could explain how brain activity differs in some people, causing inattention and trouble concentrating. But we could include other factors, like how often they go outdoors or how much they work in front of a computer screen.

US adults have reduced their time outside. We use our phones and laptops every day. It’s no wonder we struggle with focus. Spending time in front of a screen interrupts our ability to concentrate.

According to fastbraiin.com, “Americans spend an average of 10 hours each day interacting with screens.” This information is from a 2016 study. There’s also a link between screen time and the prevalence of ADHD.

I got diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) — Inattentive Type when I was 19 years old. It was before the rise of internet-ready cell phones. I agree there’s something unique about my brain function. But if I knew then what I know now, my diagnosis might have been different. I went on to become an alcoholic. When I got sober, my ADHD symptoms all but disappeared.

Professionals and laypeople make some assumptions about people with ADHD.

Diagnostic criteria include an inability to focus, impulsivity, and problems with concentration. These symptoms don’t encompass everyone’s experience with ADHD.

My impulsivity disappeared after I recovered from alcoholism. It probably wasn’t indicative of ADHD. I’m able to pay attention to everything at once. I used to blurt things out because I couldn’t contain all the thoughts in my head. I naturally eavesdrop, even if I’m in a conversation.

Here’s the problem with these superpowers. Our culture supports multi-tasking, but it wears us out and makes us inefficient and stressed. We only capture a fraction of what’s happening when we spread our attention everywhere. I crave single-tasking. I thrive when I only focus on what’s in front of me.

I got a prescription for Ritalin in my 20s. It served its purpose at first. But I started abusing it. I tried again once I got sober in my 30s. It helped me with follow-through. But I was jittery and anxious. I powered through for hours without a break until I crashed. Kind of like being high, right? I needed to stop that nonsense.

There’s some question as to how one develops ADHD, and if it’s a lifetime condition.

I’m inclined to believe that ADHD might not be real. We don’t get outside enough. Nature-deficit has become a disorder of its own.

ADHD was a new thing when I got diagnosed. Health care professionals encouraged treatment via medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy. They didn’t suggest any additional remedies, although they suggested exercise.

Current western medical professionals see the value of a holistic approach. Additude Magazine suggests green time (getting out in Nature), exercise, and mindfulness in addition to meds.

I’ve used these tools for over 15 years without medication. If you take Ritalin or anything else for ADHD and you want to stop, you might consider adding these activities to your regimen and see what happens.

I’m not a health care professional. I can’t offer medical advice. But I’ve had results from doing these daily activities.

Here’s a routine treatment to manage ‘symptoms’ of ADHD:

Yerba Maté

I drink yerba maté every morning, and sometimes after lunch. There’s an energy boost without the nervousness often associated with coffee. Yerba maté is said to improve mental clarity. It’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

I believe yerba maté replaced my need for pharmaceuticals. It led me to do other healthy things for myself, like meditation and exercise. It’s brought me an overall sense of well-being.

Nature

We’re focused and energized when we’re outdoors. It’s easier to finish tasks. You’ll find peace and relaxation.

Nature is medicine.

I go outside every day, ideally in a quiet space. Bare feet in the dirt is perfect for grounding. Meditate by observing wildlife, hugging a tree, or gazing at flowers. You’ll get grounded and centered. Your mind will be clear and calm. Besides, it always feels good to go outside. Nature speaks to us.

Exercise

Want more mental and physical clarity? Move your body. I hike a few times a week. I notice a palpable difference in my approach to life. Maybe running is your thing. Go for a run, and get a bonus endorphin rush.

Mindfulness Meditation

The first time I meditated was by doing a mindful activity. I washed the dishes, focusing on the sensations and actions of washing. I felt centered and calm, not feeling a need to rush as I usually do with most activities.

Once I sat quietly, I found my happy place. I slowed down, and the voice in my head was quieter. I found clarity of thought. I’ve felt the peace of the space between, the stillness and no-thought zone.

The best way to meditate is however you’re called to do it.

Mindfulness meditation places focus on the present moment awareness through paying attention to your breath. Always bring attention back to your breath as it inevitably wanders. Allow your thoughts to float by like clouds passing.

Final thoughts

I used to define myself with labels I’ve been given. Now I step away from trying to find a name for it.

I pay attention to what my brain and body need. My brain function is within the normal range, from what I can tell.

I don’t feel like I have ADHD. Sticky notes and mnemonics help me remember things. I pause before I speak. I have a clear focus.

I don’t know what happened to the symptoms I had before. I don’t know if it disappeared because I incorporated healthy routines, my brain is ever-changing, or if it was only an illusion.

We often hear about what’s wrong with us. What if there’s nothing wrong? We are individuals having unique experiences. Maybe all we need is some herbal tea and time in nature. Let’s open ourselves to living a healthy, productive life.

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