Neurophysiological psychologist Sarah Warley suggests a multi-faceted approach to managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in children, emphasizing strategies beyond medication. Warley, who has worked with over 5,000 families through her clinic, advocates for addressing the biological underpinnings of symptoms, focusing on three key areas: retained primitive reflexes, auditory processing, and bionutrition.
Retained primitive reflexes, which typically disappear as an infant's brain matures, can contribute to difficulties with balance, coordination, handwriting, reading, and emotional regulation if they persist. Warley notes that specific exercises can help the nervous system mature and address these reflexes. Auditory processing challenges, where children may hear well but struggle to process sounds, can also impact concentration. Listening-based therapies aim to improve how the brain processes auditory information. The third area, bionutrition, highlights the brain's reliance on nutrients for chemical messengers affecting attention and mood. Diet, gut health, and the gut microbiome play crucial roles, with imbalances in nutrients like zinc and copper potentially affecting dopamine levels.
Warley points to the case of broadcaster Chris Evans' son, Eli, who experienced significant improvements in reading and emotional regulation through a combination of exercises to address retained reflexes, followed by interventions for gut health and biochemical imbalances. Eli's progress included moving from reading significantly below his age level to above it. This approach, tailored through lab tests, involved supplements and dietary changes rather than a blanket gluten- and dairy-free diet.
She addresses concerns about the overdiagnosis of ADHD, particularly in children, noting that expert assessment typically prevents this. However, Warley expresses concern about the subsequent reliance on medication as the sole option. While acknowledging medication's potential benefits, she stresses exploring other avenues first due to possible side effects like reduced appetite, sleep disturbances, and mood changes.
Warley also highlights the importance of lifestyle adjustments, especially during school holidays when routines can be more flexible. She recommends focusing on stable blood sugar levels through a protein-rich breakfast and limiting ultra-processed foods. Encouraging a varied intake of fruits and vegetables, along with ensuring adequate vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, is advised. Managing screen time and promoting free play outdoors are also key, as excessive social media use has been linked to poorer mental health outcomes in young people. Exercise is identified as a powerful tool for brain health, with research indicating that even short bursts of aerobic activity can improve attention and self-control in children with ADHD symptoms.
Establishing a consistent routine, including regular mealtimes and bedtimes, and reducing screen use before sleep, is fundamental. Warley also advocates for spending time in nature, citing a study that found improved concentration in children with ADHD after activities in green settings. Creative activities, such as drawing, painting, or music, are also encouraged as valuable aspects of development.
Warley is launching a new app, BeBright.ai, to make these approaches more accessible and affordable. She believes these foundational strategies, when implemented consistently, can lead to significant improvements in children's well-being and ability to manage ADHD symptoms.