I don't know if I can ask this or not. But I will try.
I am a student at a highschool and as the year comes to an end I looked at my grades over my life and have noticed my academic performance. I was orginally on Ritlan in 4th grade and stayed on it up to 7th grade. Then I entered highschool. My grades from 4 to 7th were good around a 3.8. Now in highschool I have noticed that my grades have drastically changed 2.8. I'm a good kid don't drink,smoke, and etc. I'm in a lot of outside activities. But I just can't focus. And for a couple years I told myself that I just need to focus. But, I couldn't. Anytime when it comes to focusing for homework, test or even talking to friends I can't focus. I walk away, draw pictures or just do something else. I have come to realize that ADD is what might be my problem.
So I was wondering (after my life story) what are some good natural ways to combat ADD. The reason I'm asking this is becasue I now don't have the money to go to the doctor.

Welcome to the forums!

The only natural way to work with your ADHD is to learn coping skills and use behavior modification.

I suggest that you check out this sticky on affording medication.
http://www.addforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4173

If you really can't do medication, another thing you can try is this:

Buy 2 timers (one for studying and one for breaks). Set the "study" timer for a specific amount of time (for instance, 30 minutes). Then, you must study for the 30 minutes. When the timer goes off, set the "break" timer and allow yourself a short break (perhaps 15 minutes) and repeat until you are finished studying.

It takes more time to study, but it might make it easier for you.

I'll give you the link to Misc Approaches and Treatments, but please keep in the fore front of your mind that research has not proven that any natural medications or supplements help people with ADHD. You certainly can try these "remedies" but there is a large chance you would be wasting money.
http://www.addforums.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=159

I'm guessing you don't have any health insurance . . .
Something to look into are doctors that have sliding scale rates. The rate you pay depends on your income. I would think that your state would have a list of these clinics/doctors.

Hopefully, other members who are not medicated will answer your question and give you tips.

Best wishes!

Courtney

High school classes and homework require a lot more organization and self-starter projects than elementary school did. That is why kids fall apart there.

Can the high school guidance or counselling department get you help with seeing a Doctor?

That seems like such a basic academic support thing -- for a Teacher or School or School Board to help a Student get in to see a Doctor, to assist with Learning Issues like ADHD/ADD. OMG.
Take any OLD Papers showing you have ADHD to any Doctor or Clinic you can get into see.

There are several FREE MEDICATIONS programs thru American Drug Companies, if you can get. (I am in Canada, so i can't speak for US drug company programs.)

ADD/ADHD is a Brain Chemical Disorder. Some people find they can improve it with exercise (some say several times/day!!).

However, since it is a chemical thing, the most accepted way to treat it is with medication.

I'd hate to see someone fail school or do poorly just due to lack of help. Jeepers.

there has to be a way.

"Keep Talking to People for Ideas. Keep asking." (It's sorta Biblical, actually!! Ask and you shall receive... eventually.)

Thank you for the suggestion I will try them out. The studying one I Will START RIGHT NOW. Again, thank you for the help. The free meds I will look in to. Thank You again.