AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (PITTAJA UNMADA) IN CHILDREN: A CASE STUDY.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the common neurobehavioural disorder and one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions affecting school aged children.[1] The prevalence of ADHD among children and adolescents in India (2009-2019) ranges from 7.6%–15%.[2] Children with ADHD have poor social interactions; thus, they have poor relationships with parents, siblings and teachers. They are also poor in academics, thus, resulting in poor self-esteem, peer rejection, inability to evaluate self and have negative emotions.[2] In Ayurveda there is no direct reference for ADHD but some references about abnormal behaviour can be considered under ‘Unmada’ spectrum of disorders i.e. Mansika Vikara.[3] Research on treating pre-schoolers with ADHD is limited compared to older children. This case report illustrates the treatment of ADHD in a pre- schooler using individualised Ayurvedic approach.