Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a psychiatric illness that may affect children between the age of 6-8 years. It appears more in boys than girls. It can also develop in adults. Its exact causes are not known. Its risk factors involve genetic inheritance, temperament fluctuation, the harsh or abusive environment in the home and school, and other associated mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, etc. Its symptoms involve excessive outbursts of anger, irritation, defiance, disobedience, and vindictiveness, especially against an authority figure in the family, work, and school. It is even seen in well-behaved children.
Can Oppositional Defiant Disorder Go Away On Its Own?
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a mental disorder appearing in the children represented by a continuous pattern of irritability, anger, arguing, defiance, or vindictiveness towards any authority or administrative figure. It may happen even in best-behaved children who maybe sometimes challenging and difficult to manage. It adversely affects the child’s performance and relationship in school, work, and social life. (1)
Oppositional defiant disorder cannot go away on its own. If a child exhibits symptoms of the oppositional defiant disorder for more than six months, then it needs to be treated. If it is not treated, it may develop into more serious condition conduct disorder. (2) Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) cannot be cured or reversed; however, the main symptoms of ODD can be managed. (4)
Natural Remedies For Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Omega-3 Fatty Acids- Omega-3 fatty acids are fat compounds that are found in abundant quantities in certain foods, especially meat and fish. It often advised to be taken as a nutritional supplement. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients needed for the normal functioning of the brain and the healthy production of certain brain chemicals, like dopamine, which play a vital role in the regulation of mood and emotions. According to ADHD-Without-Drugs.com, a considerable intake of omega-3 fatty acids may remarkably assist in the improvement of the behavioral symptoms related to the oppositional defiant disorder. (3)
Vitamin E- Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that can be derived in abundant quantities from foods, like nuts, seeds, wheat, and some vegetables. It is prescribed as a nutritional supplement to treat a vitamin E deficiency. The primary function of Vitamin E also can help in the absorption and effects of omega-3 fatty acids by prohibiting the oxidation of omega-3 in the brain. Supplementation of both vitamin E and omega-3’s can treat oppositional defiant disorder. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin E supplements can be used as an antioxidant in the brain to protect it from free radicals that may trigger cognitive disorders. (3)
Melatonin- is a natural hormone produced by the body that helps to control the sleep-wake cycle. It functions to balance hormones, like serotonin, which regulates anxiety, aggression, mood, and depression. It can be taken as an oral nutritional supplement for many brain-related disorders, including oppositional defiant disorder.
Melatonin is often prescribed for the treatment of oppositional defiant disorder and ADHD. Melatonin supplementation can help in the normalization of sleep patterns. (3)
Zinc- Zinc is a mineral found in abundant quantities in meat, poultry, shellfish, and most of the dairy products. A zinc deficiency may play a significant role in the treatment of the neurological and behavioral symptoms associated with oppositional defiant disorder and ADHD. It boasts the production of brain chemicals that helps in the neutralization of stimulants causing hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can reduce the amount of copper in the brain that diminishes the incidence of behavioral and cognitive abnormalities triggered by copper. (3)
Conclusion
Oppositional defiant disorder is a behavioral disorder that usually affects children. It cannot go away on its own. It needs treatment for the control of the symptoms. It can be treated with natural remedies such as omega-3 fatty acids, melatonin, vitamin E, and zinc.
- https://www.healthline.com/health/oppositional-defiant-disorder
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdLQQ3EGEIQ
- https://www.livestrong.com/article/493854-oppositional-defiance-disorder-nutrition-herbs-and-vitamins/
- https://healthand.com/in/smart-search/answer/can-oppositional-defiant-disorder-odd-be-cured
Also Read:
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Complications
- Parenting Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Teaching Strategies for ODD
- At What Age Can Oppositional Defiant Disorder Be Diagnosed & Who Is Affected By It?
- How Do You Deal With Someone With Oppositional Defiant Disorder & Is It Caused By Bad Parenting?
- How Do You Discipline A Child With Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
- Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder A Mental Illness & Is It A Part Of The Autism Spectrum?
- Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder Hereditary & What Happens To Adults With It?