ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
ADHD can cause a broad spectrum of symptoms that can cause people to be unable to be productive at school or at work. The problem are often incorrectly diagnosed.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can aid people suffering from adhd without medication learn more effective ways of thinking and reacting to stress. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also aid.
Medications
Many people aren't thrilled to think about taking medicine but the right medicine can make a big difference. ADHD medications boost brain chemicals which affect attention, concentration, and impulse control. Doctors usually prescribe them in small doses first and gradually increase the dosage until ADHD symptoms are reduced. Regular checkups are required for people who take ADHD medications to confirm if they are working and to check for any side effects.
Stimulants are the most popular treatment for ADHD. They are taken orally and are available in a variety of forms. They include tablets that can be chewed, swallowed whole or dissolving in capsules that can be sprayed over food; and liquids which can be mixed with water or swallowed. These medications are typically taken once daily by most people. adhd treatment without medication are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). They work by stimulating certain areas of the brain to increase concentration and decrease impulsive behavior. They are usually prescribed to children older than 5 years old, but they are also available to teens and adults who have not had a positive response to other treatments.
Other kinds of medication are also used to treat ADHD however they are less commonly used in children because they may have undesirable or harmful adverse effects. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are antidepressants that can help with ADHD by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. They are used only if other treatments fail. However they have been linked with a variety of deaths due to heart rhythm issues. The most well-known monoamine oxidase inhibitor is the drug phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a newer form of this medication that has been found to treat ADHD in a small number of patients, but it has not been studied as thoroughly.
Adults and children alike can suffer from symptoms similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders (such as anxiety), adjustment disorders, and personality disorders. Antisocial personality disorder is a frequent personality disorder among adults suffering from ADHD. If a patient is suffering from multiple disorders, such as ADHD and other psychiatric disorders. Doctors attempt to treat the most severe symptoms of other disorders before trying medications for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people suffering from ADHD are not able to find medication helpful, and may seek other treatment options. These treatments are referred to as alternative or complementary therapies. These include certain foods, nutritional supplements and exercise, sleep training and meditation, yoga and brain-based treatments such as neurofeedback. These therapies are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment program.
Changing diet can be helpful for people suffering from ADHD have reported that certain foods can cause symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts suggest keeping a food diary to determine if certain food items cause symptoms. If anyone notices that ADHD symptoms get worse or improve after eating certain foods it is important to talk with their doctor who may suggest seeing a dietitian.
Some people with ADHD notice that they feel better after they take certain supplements or vitamins. However, there's not a lot of evidence that these things really work. It's a good idea talk to your doctor before trying any of these supplements, because they could interfere with certain medications.
Regular exercise is beneficial for everyone, but it appears to be especially beneficial for people with ADHD. Studies have shown that moderate to intense exercise can help the brain release chemicals that aid in controlling attention and behavior. It's particularly effective when it's done outdoors away from televisions or computers, as well as video games.
A behavioral therapy is another treatment that doesn't require medication. This treatment teaches children new ways to behave and is best suited for children under five years old. It can be helpful for older children and adults. It is usually paired with cognitive behavior therapy, which aims to change negative beliefs and thoughts that could be the cause of the problems.
A form of behavior therapy called sensory integration training is designed to teach the brain how to react to sensory messages such as sight, hearing and touch. This is a relatively new treatment and further research is needed. However, it's worth a try, especially when the person who suffers from ADHD has mental health issues.
Counseling
Psychotherapy can help people suffering from ADHD overcome anxiety and depression. It can be provided by therapists who are qualified, or in groups. Therapies that involve talking, like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help you learn how to manage your issues and deal with stress. For example, CBT helps you change negative or irrational thoughts, such as "I always mess up" or "this isn't going to work."
In addition to counseling, there are alternatives to treating adhd without medication, including establishing healthy sleep habits, fixing nutritional deficiencies, and completing regular exercise. Consult your physician before trying to eliminate any food or supplements.
You can also find assistance through self-help or support groups. These groups can assist you with a variety of challenges, such as managing anxiety, relationships or low self-esteem. These services may be offered in person over the phone, in person or via the internet. A majority of these services are free or are cost-free.
Behavioral therapy is a good option for children who have ADHD. It can also be beneficial for adults and teens. In behavioral therapy the child and you are assisted by a skilled counselor to devise strategies that will help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of your family. For instance, a therapy therapist could teach you how to use positive reinforcement and reward systems.
A therapist may also help your child and you to recognize when signs are occurring and how to calm them down. This is particularly beneficial for parents who are overwhelmed by their child's unpredictable behavior. A therapist may also recommend that you and your child learn relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation deep breathing, visualization, and meditation.
Behavioral therapy may also include training for teachers to make it easier for them to deal with students who suffer from ADHD. The therapist may advise you to use "report cards" in order to let teachers know if your child has met the behavior goals they set for during the day. They can then give the child a reward to encourage good behavior. Research shows that these types of interventions can significantly enhance the ability of children and adults with ADHD to be successful in their daily lives.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD often struggle to understand their symptoms and behaviors which can be overwhelming. Support groups can help people who suffer from ADHD to gain empathy and support from those who have similar experiences. They can also learn new ways of coping and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are run by professionals, while others are led by peers. Some groups provide educational materials, guest speakers and workshops. Additionally, support groups can provide an environment in which participants can connect and collaborate with other people to share their resources.
Online support groups are a good option for those who are unable to attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example has an online forum that allows users to exchange ideas and interact. The site has an extensive list of professional ADHD coaches as well as other resources. People can also look for online ADHD support groups through their health insurance or a website that offers mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), for example, may cover therapy and counseling for people with mental health issues including ADHD.
Other sources of support from social networks include family and friends. Let those closest to know that you have ADHD so they can offer more assistance and support with daily tasks. For example, an ADHD spouse could assist with meal preparation or cleaning, while a close friend could be an excellent listener when you're feeling overwhelmed.
If you're thinking of joining an ADHD support group, make sure you choose a respected group. You should also be wary of social media forums and sites that allow anyone to post. These forums may offer advice that is against medical guidelines, or even harmful. Support groups should be considered as part of a treatment plan that includes therapy, medication and training in skills.