ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People suffering from ADHD often suffer from a variety of symptoms that make it difficult to perform well at work or in school. These problems could be mistakenly diagnosed.
Adults with adhd who are not taking medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to learn better ways to think about stress and how to deal with it. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help.
Medications
Many people don't want to think of taking medicine however the right medication can make a huge difference. ADHD medications increase brain chemicals that influence attention, concentration and impulse control. Doctors typically prescribe them in small doses initially and then gradually increase them until the ADHD symptoms are reduced. People who take ADHD medicines have regular checkups to determine whether the medication is effective and to monitor for any side effects.
The most popular medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are taken through the mouth and are available in a variety of forms, including tablets that can be chewed, swallowed or dissolved capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food or drinks, and liquids that may be taken in a swallow or mixed with water. The majority of people take these medications every day. The most frequently used stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). Both stimulants are effective in stimulating specific parts of the brain in order to improve concentration and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. They are usually given to children who are older than 5 years old, but they are also available to teens and adults who have not had a positive response to other treatments.
There are various other medications that treat ADHD. However, these are less common in children due to the possibility of side effects. Monoamine Oxase inhibitors are antidepressants which can aid in the treatment of ADHD by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and serotonin. They are only prescribed when other treatments do not work. However they have been linked to a number of deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most well-known monoamine inhibitor of oxidase is Phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a newer version of this drug has also been shown to be effective in treating ADHD in a few people, however it's not as extensively studied.
Children and adults alike can have symptoms that are similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders and a few personality disorders, including antisocial personality disorder, which is seen at a high rate among adult patients suffering from ADHD (Mannuzza et al 1998). If a patient has an underlying condition that is causing ADHD and other psychiatric disorders, doctors attempt to treat the most severe symptoms of other disorders prior to attempting medications for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people with ADHD find that medication is not effective and look for other options for treatment. These treatments are considered alternative or complementary medicine. They can be found in eating certain foods, taking nutritional supplements and sleep training, exercise yoga, meditation, and brain-based therapies like neurofeedback. These treatments are an excellent supplement to any ADHD treatment program.
Altering your diet can be beneficial for people suffering from ADHD find that certain foods can cause symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts recommend keeping a food diary to see if any particular foods trigger symptoms. If you notice that their ADHD symptoms improve or become worse after eating certain food items it is important to discuss this with a physician, who may suggest seeing a dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD notice that they feel better after they take certain supplements or vitamins. However there's not a lot of evidence that suggests these products really work. Before attempting any of these supplements, it's best to consult your doctor in case they interfere with certain medications.
Regular exercise is beneficial for everyone, but it seems to be particularly beneficial to those with ADHD. Studies have shown that moderate intensity exercise helps the brain release chemicals that manage attention and behavior. It's particularly effective if it's done outdoors, away from TVs or computers, as well as video games.
Another option that isn't a medication is behavioral therapy. This helps to teach new ways of being and is usually best for children who are less than five. It is also beneficial for adults and older children. It is usually used in conjunction with cognitive behavior therapy, which aims at changing negative beliefs and thoughts.
A type of behavior called sensory integration training attempts to train the brain to respond to sensory signals like sight and hearing. This is a relatively new method and more research is needed. It's worth a try, particularly in the case that a person who suffers from ADHD suffers from mental health issues.
Counseling
Psychotherapy can assist some patients with ADHD overcome anxiety and depression. It is offered by trained therapists or in groups. Therapies that involve talking, like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), can help you learn how to manage your issues and manage stress. For example, CBT helps you change negative or irrational thoughts such as "I always mess up" or "this isn't going to work."
There are a myriad of treatment options for adhd that do not require medication. These include creating healthy sleeping routines, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and regular exercise. However, you should not try eliminating foods or supplements without the advice of your doctor.
You can also get assistance through self-help or support groups. These can help you with a variety of problems, like managing anxiety, relationships or low self-esteem. These services can be provided in person, over the phone or via the internet. A majority of these services are offered for free or cost very little.
Behavioral therapy is often the first choice for children with ADHD however, it can be equally beneficial for adults and teens. In a behavioral therapy session, a trained therapist helps you and your child to develop strategies to decrease symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of the family. The therapist can teach you positive reinforcement as well as a reward system.
Your child and you can also learn from a therapist to calm yourself down when you observe signs. This is particularly helpful for parents who feel overwhelmed by the impulsive behaviours of their children. A therapist might also recommend instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, like meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization and deep breathing.
Teachers can also be trained in behavioral therapy to help them better deal with ADHD students. The therapist may instruct you to use "report cards" to inform teachers if your child has met their behavior goals during the day. They could then offer the child a reward to encourage good behavior. Research suggests that these kinds of interventions can significantly improve the ability of both children and adults suffering from ADHD to be successful in their daily lives.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD are often unable to understand their symptoms and behaviors that can be overwhelming. Support groups can help them gain acceptance and support from other people who have similar experiences. They can also learn new coping skills and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are run professionally and others are led by peers. Some offer educational materials, workshops and guest speakers. Support groups also offer a place where participants can connect with others and collaborate to share resources.
Online support groups are a good alternative for those who can't meet in person. For example, ADDitude magazine has an online forum where people can connect with one another and get advice. The site also offers a list of professional ADHD coaches and other resources. People can also look for online ADHD support groups through their health insurance, or an online site that provides mental health services. visit the following website (EAPs), for example could provide counseling and therapy for those suffering from mental health issues, including ADHD.
Other sources of social support include friends and family. It's important to let those closest to you be aware that you suffer from ADHD to allow them to be more supportive and help with everyday tasks. For instance, an ADHD spouse might help with the preparation of meals or cleaning, and an acquaintance could be an excellent listener when overwhelmed.
Choose a reputable group in the event you're considering joining an ADHD support group. Be cautious about social media forums that allow anyone to post. These forums can give advice that is not in line with medical guidelines, or even harmful. In the end, support groups should be used as part of a treatment plan that includes medication, therapy and skills training.