A Natural Approach to ADD
How Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine Can Help Children and Adults Thrive - Without Adderall
More People Diagnosed Amidst A Shortage of Medication – A Perfect Storm
We are a population dealing with multiple stressors as we recover from a global pandemic, and face new financial, political and social upheavals. In our troubled population, the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) has become increasingly common among both children and adults – perhaps increasing due to these issues or the mental health system having a greater awareness of ADD. Challenges like inattention, impulsivity, and restlessness can make daily life more difficult—for kids at school, adults at work, and families at home.
In October of 2024 the FDA announced a shortage of Adderall. Many adults and children could not access the drug they had grown dependent upon and have suffered thinking there is no alternative. According to The Atlantic*, “… the effects of the shortage are still making life tough for people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder who rely on the drug. Stories abound of frustrated people going to dozens of pharmacies in search of medication each month, only to come up short every time. Without treatment, students have had a hard time in school, and adults have struggled to keep up at work and maintain relationships. The Adderall shortage has ended, but the widely used generic versions of the drug, known as amphetamine mixed salts, are still scarce.”
So while these medications are often very effective, they are also in large demand while are in short supply. These high demand drugs also come with hefty side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, reduced appetite, and dependency that often outweight their benefits.
At Mend Family Acupuncture and Healthcare, we believe in treating the root cause of imbalances, not just the symptoms. That’s why many of our patients come to us seeking a more natural, sustainable approach to managing ADD—through Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Understanding ADD from a TCM Perspective
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ADD is not seen as a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. Instead, it’s viewed as a pattern of imbalances in the body’s energy systems. Often, we see issues connected to the Heart Shen (spirit), Liver, Spleen, and Kidney organ systems.
Heart Shen (spirit): When the Shen is disturbed, it can lead to restlessness, insomnia, or difficulty concentrating. You may have trouble falling asleep and also have disturbing dreams.
Liver Qi Stagnation: This can show up as mood swings, frustration, or impulsivity. It can also produce body pain and sleeps distruption. Do you always wonder why you wake up at 3:00am every night and can't get back to sleep? You can thank the Liver meridian for that.
Spleen Qi Deficiency: Linked to poor memory, fatigue, and difficulty staying focused.
Kidney Essence Deficiency: Often related to developmental delays or chronic inattention.
Every patient is unique, so our treatment plans are personalized to each child or adult’s underlying patterns – addressing both the mental and physical aspects of ADD.
How Acupuncture Can Help
Acupuncture gently stimulates specific points on the body to restore energetic balance, improve circulation, and calm the nervous system. For those struggling with ADD, this can mean:
- Improved focus and clarity
- Better emotional regulation
- Reduced anxiety and hyperactivity
- Healthier sleep patterns
- More energy and vitality
For children, we use age-appropriate methods, such as shallow needle insertion with no needle retention, laser acupuncture, acupressure, Hypnotherapy in conjunction with Acupuncture, Myofascial release, and other non-invasive tools– always with care and comfort in mind.
Herbal Medicine & Nutrition: Supporting the Body from Within
Alongside acupuncture, customized herbal formulas can be incredibly effective. These blends help calm the mind, nourish the nervous system, and support digestion and brain function. Depending on each patient’s diagnosis, we may recommend formulas that calm the Shen, strengthen the Spleen, or soothe the Liver.
We also provide gentle nutrition, lifestyle guidance, and behavioral modification to help families make supportive choices – like cutting down on sugar and processed foods, encouraging grounding meals, and creating consistent routines that support focus and stability.
What the Research Says
Growing evidence supports what we see in the clinic every day: Acupuncture and TCM can offer meaningful improvement for people with ADD. Studies show benefits in attention, behavior regulation, and anxiety reduction—without the side effects of stimulant medications*.
Our goal at Mend is not just to reduce symptoms, but to help each patient thrive naturally, feeling more connected, calm, and capable.
Holistic Care for the Whole Family
Whether you’re a parent looking for alternatives to medication, or an adult seeking greater focus and emotional balance, we’re here to help. At Mend Family Acupuncture and Healthcare, we specialize in integrative, heart-centered care that treats the whole person – not just a diagnosis. We work with you and your child to create a comfortable treatment plan that produces long-term results.
If you’d like to explore how Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can support you or your child in managing ADD naturally, we invite you to reach out. Let’s create a path toward healing, clarity, and balance – together.
Book a consultation today and discover what natural, personalized care can look like for your family.
🧡 Mend Family Acupuncture and Healthcare – Rooted in Compassion, Guided by Balance.
* https://www.nwhealth.edu/news/be-well-eastern-medicine-turns-adhd-on-its-head/
