ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
ADHD can trigger a wide variety of symptoms that can make it difficult for people to perform at a high level at school or work. Sometimes, these issues are not properly diagnosed.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can assist people with adhd who are not on medication learn more effective ways of thinking and responding to stress. A healthy diet and regular exercise help.
Medicines
Many people don't like to think of taking medicine but the right medicine can make a significant difference. ADHD medication boosts brain chemicals that affect concentration, attention, and impulse control. Doctors typically prescribe them in small doses at first and gradually increase the dosage until the ADHD symptoms diminish. Patients taking ADHD medication are required to have regular checkups to determine if the medication is working and to watch for side effects.
The most popular medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are taken orally and come in a variety of forms. These include tablets that can be chewed, swallowed whole or dissolving into capsules that can be sprayed over food items; and liquids that can be mixed with water or taken. These medications are typically taken daily by the majority of people. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). They both work by stimulating specific parts of the brain to increase concentration and reduce impulsive behavior. They are usually prescribed to children who are older than five, but they can also be given to teenagers as well as adults who haven't had a response to other treatments.
Other kinds of medication are also used to treat ADHD however, they are less frequently used by children because they may have undesirable or harmful adverse effects. Monoamine oxidase inhibiters are antidepressants that can aid those suffering from ADHD. They do this by increasing the levels of brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine. They are typically only used if other treatments fail, but have been linked to a variety of deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most commonly used monoamine oxidase inhibitor is phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a newer version of this drug has been proven to be effective at treating ADHD in some people however it's not as extensively studied.
Psychological and psychiatric conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD in both children and adults. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and other personality disorders, particularly antisocial personality disorder, which is seen in high numbers among adult patients suffering from ADHD (Mannuzza and co., 1998). If a patient suffers from comorbid ADHD with other psychiatric disorders and symptoms that are not treated, doctors will first address the most severe symptoms before they prescribe medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people with ADHD find that medication is not effective and consider other treatment options. These treatments are often referred to as complementary or alternative medicine. They include certain foods, nutritional supplements and exercise, sleep training and meditation, yoga, and brain-based treatments such as neurofeedback. These therapies are a great addition to any ADHD treatment program.
A change in diet can be beneficial, as many people with ADHD find that certain food items can aggravate their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts recommend keeping a food diary to determine whether certain foods cause symptoms. If anyone notices that ADHD symptoms get worse or improve after eating certain foods it is crucial to talk to their doctor who may suggest seeing a dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD feel better when they take certain vitamins or supplements. However, there's not a lot of evidence that suggests these products actually work. It's a good idea to talk to your doctor before taking any of these supplements because they could interfere with some medications.
Regular exercise is good for all, but it appears to be particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD. Studies show that moderate-intensity exercise can help the brain release chemical that helps manage the behavior and attention. It's most effective if you exercise outside, away from televisions, computers, and video games.
Another option that isn't a medication is called behavioral therapy. It is a method that helps children learn new ways to behave and works best with children younger than five. It is also beneficial for older children as well as adults. It's usually combined with cognitive behavioral therapy, which aims to alter negative thoughts and beliefs that could be causing problems.
A type of therapy for behavior called sensory integration training is designed to teach the brain how to react to sensory messages such as hearing, sight and touch. This is a relatively new treatment and more research is required. I Am Psychiatry , particularly if a person with ADHD also has other mental health problems.
Counseling
Some people with ADHD can find relief from depression and anxiety by getting psychotherapy, which is provided by therapists who are certified or in an entire group. Therapy for talking, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you manage your problems and manage stress. For example, CBT helps you change negative or irrational thoughts like "I always fail" or "this isn't going to work."
In addition to counseling, there are alternatives to treating adhd without medication, such as establishing healthy sleep habits, fixing nutritional deficiencies, and completing regular exercise. You should consult your doctor before attempting to eliminate any foods or supplements.
You can also seek help through self-help groups or support groups. These groups can help with a variety of issues, such as managing relationships, anxiety, or low self-esteem. These services can be provided in person, over the phone or online. Many of these services are free or are very inexpensive.
Behavioral therapy is a good option for children who have ADHD. It can also be beneficial for teenagers and adults. In a behavioral therapy session both you and your child are assisted by a skilled professional to develop strategies to lessen the symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of your family. For example, the therapist might teach you to use positive reinforcement and reward systems.
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 may feel overwhelmed by their child's unpredictable behavior. Therapists may also suggest instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, including meditation or progressive muscle relaxation visualization and deep breathing.
Teachers are also trained in the field of behavioral therapy to help them better work with ADHD students. The therapist might instruct you to use "report cards" to let teachers know that your child has met their goals for behavior that day. The therapist can then reward the child for good behavior. Research suggests that these kinds of interventions can dramatically improve the ability of both children and adults suffering from ADHD to function in their everyday lives.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to comprehend their behavior and symptoms that can be overwhelming. Support groups can help people who suffer from ADHD to gain acceptance and support from others who share 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 workshops, educational materials and guest speakers. Support groups can also provide a place where participants can join with others and work together to share resources.
Online support groups can be a great alternative for those who can't attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example has an online forum that allows users to communicate and share advice. The site includes an index of professional ADHD coaches and other sources. People can also look for online ADHD support groups through their health insurance plan or a website that offers mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for instance can offer counseling and therapy to those suffering from mental health issues including ADHD.
Other sources of social support include family and friends. Let those closest to know that you have ADHD so they can offer more support and help with daily tasks. For instance, an ADHD spouse might help with cooking or cleaning, while a close friend could be an excellent listener when you're overwhelmed.
Choose a reputable group when you're considering joining an ADHD support group. Beware of social media forums sites that allow anyone to post. These forums may offer advice that is contrary to medical guidelines, or could be harmful. Support groups should be a part of a complete treatment program that includes medication, therapy and training in skills.