Q: My husband has recently been diagnosed with adult ADD (attention deficit disorder). He has always seemed somewhat irresponsible, not keeping track of time, doesn't finish projects, and is extremely impulsive and tends to spend too much because of impulse purchases. The scary part is some of his risky behavior. He's a wonderful person, good dad and husband, has creative ideas, but has left jobs because of boredom, and lost jobs due to carelessness. A few weeks ago, I noticed a dramatic change in him, like he had suddenly "grown up". He then told me that he had been taking our son's medicine for ADD/ADHD, Ritalin. He read an article about adult ADD, and thought he might have it, so he wanted to see if the Ritalin would help him. His doctor gave him a prescription for a different medication for the ADD, and it helps, but he doesn't like the side effects. Are there any alternative herbs or supplements for ADD?

A: ADD/ADHD tends to be "inherited", so it is not a surprise that your husband and son share this. It is often difficult to diagnoses adult ADD (as it is to diagnose it in children) because it often looks like immaturity and/or misbehavior. Some of the characteristics of adult ADD include what you described: losing track of time, procrastination, impulsive overspending, wandering from one project to another, and great distractibility. Many adults with ADD are very intelligent and creative, but don't develop their gifts because the symptoms of ADD get in the way. . Adults with ADD often know that something is wrong, don't know what it is, and will self-medicate with alcohol, drugs, or many cups of coffee to function through the day. Physicians sometimes diagnose depression without realizing that there is ADD involvement. A trial of medication for ADD can often help confirm the diagnosis.

And most medications do have side effects. It is sometimes difficult to decide whether or not the side effects are worth the benefits of the medication.

Tian wang bu xin dan is a classic Chinese herbal formula that has been used in China for treatment of ADD and ADHD in adults and children. It helps to balance the body naturally. It is safe, and can be taken for long periods of time.

There are also some neurofeedback programs that work to balance the brain. They are expensive, but can be very helpful.

Eastern health practices, such as taiji, qigong, yoga, martial arts, also help to bring the whole body including the brain back to balance. These help with focus and self control.

I have worked with people who have taken medication for ADD/ADHD for short periods of time while they learned behavioral techniques to manage their symptoms. When they stop the medication, they practice what they have learned to deal with the rough spots they encounter.

Best wishes to you and your husband, and let me know how you are doing.

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