ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
ADHD can cause a wide variety of symptoms that can cause people to be unable to be productive at work or school. Sometimes, these issues are not properly diagnosed.
Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can aid people suffering from adhd without medication develop more effective ways of thinking and reacting to stress. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also be helpful.
Medications
Many people don't like to think of taking medicine however the right medication can make a huge difference. ADHD medication boosts brain chemicals which affect attention, concentration and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them in small doses, and then increase them gradually until the ADHD symptoms improve. Patients who take ADHD medication are required to have regular checkups to see if the medication is working and to be aware of any adverse effects.
The most popular medication for treating ADHD is stimulants. They are taken orally and are available in a variety of forms. These include tablets that may be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolvable into capsules that can be opened and sprinkled over food; and liquids which can be mixed with water or taken. The majority of people use these drugs once a day. The most popular stimulants are methylphenidates (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall) and amphetamines. They both work by stimulating specific areas of the brain to improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviour. They are often prescribed for children who are older than 5but may be prescribed to teenagers and adults who haven't had a response to other treatments.
There are various other medications that are used to treat ADHD. However, they are less popular among children due to their potential side consequences. Monoamine oxidase inhibiters are antidepressants that may help those suffering from ADHD. adult add medication do this by increasing levels of brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine. They are only used when other treatments do not work. However, they have been linked with a variety of deaths due to heart rhythm issues. The most well-known monoamine oxidese inhibitor is called phenelzine, also known as Nardil. Venlafaxine is a newer form of this drug that has been proven to treat ADHD in a small number of patients, but it has not been studied as extensively.
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, such as antisocial personality disorder, which is found at a high rate among adult patients suffering from ADHD (Mannuzza and colleagues, 1998). If a patient suffers from the comorbidity of ADHD with other psychiatric disorders and symptoms that are not treated, doctors will first address the most severe symptoms prior to they prescribe medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people suffering from ADHD do not find medications useful, and instead seek other treatments. They are usually referred to as alternative or complementary medicine (CAM). This includes certain foods, nutritional supplements and exercise, sleep training and meditation, yoga and brain-based treatments such as neurofeedback. These treatments are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment plan.
Many people suffering from ADHD claim that certain foods can cause symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts suggest keeping a food journal to determine whether certain foods cause symptoms. If someone notices that their ADHD symptoms get better or worse after eating certain food items It is crucial to discuss the issue with a doctor, who may suggest seeing an dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD notice that they feel better when they take certain vitamins or supplements. However there's not a lot of evidence that suggests these products really work. Before attempting any of these supplements it's recommended to talk to your doctor in case they interfere with certain medications.
Regular exercise is beneficial for all, but it is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD. Studies show that moderate to intense exercise helps the brain release chemicals that help control the behavior and attention. It's particularly effective if it is done outside away from televisions computers, video games and other screens.
Another treatment that's not a medication is behavioral therapy. This treatment can teach children new ways of being and is best suited for children under five. It is also beneficial for older children and adults. It's typically combined with cognitive behavior therapy, which aims to change negative thoughts and beliefs that could be causing problems.
A type of behavior called sensory integration training is designed to teach the brain to react to sensory signals, such as sight and hearing. This is a relatively young treatment, and more research is required. It's certainly worth a try, particularly when the person who suffers from ADHD is suffering from other mental health issues.
Counseling
Some people with ADHD can find relief from anxiety and depression by getting psychotherapy, which can be offered by trained therapists or as a group. Therapy for talking, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you manage your problems and manage stress. For instance, CBT helps you change irrational or negative thoughts, such as "I always fail" or "this isn't working."
In addition to counseling, there are many other treatments for adhd no medication, including creating healthy sleep habits, fixing nutritional deficiencies, and engaging in 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 can help you with a variety of issues, including managing relationships, anxiety or low self-esteem. These services are available in person over the phone, in person or via the internet. A lot of these services cost nothing or are free.
Behavioral therapy can be an ideal option for children who have ADHD. It can also be beneficial for adults and teens. In a behavioral therapy session the child and you are assisted by a skilled therapist to develop strategies that will help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of your family. For example, the counselor might show you how to utilize positive reinforcement and reward systems.
A therapist might also teach your child and you to recognize when symptoms are present and how to calm them down. This is particularly helpful for parents who feel overwhelmed by the impulsive behaviors of their children. A therapist might also suggest that you and your child learn relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation deep breathing meditation, visualization, and visualization.
Teachers are also trained in behavioral therapy to assist them in their 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 the day. The therapist will then reward the child for good behavior. Research has shown that these kinds of programs can greatly increase the capacity of children and adults suffering from ADHD to perform in their daily lives.
Support Groups
Adults with ADHD are often unable to comprehend their behavior and symptoms that can be overwhelming. Support groups can help them gain empathy and support from others who share similar experiences. They can also learn new strategies to cope and skills to improve their lives. Some support groups are run professionally and others are facilitated by peer. Some offer workshops, educational materials, and guest speakers. Support groups can also be a source of the opportunity for members to join with others and work together to exchange resources.
Online support groups are a great alternative for those who are unable to attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example has an online forum that allows people to communicate and share advice. The website has a list with professional ADHD coaches as well as other sources. It is also possible to find online ADHD support groups through their health insurance, or an online site that provides mental health services. For example Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) at a variety of companies may cover counseling or therapy for people with mental health issues, including ADHD.
Other sources of support from social networks include family and friends. Let your closest friends and family know that you suffer from ADHD to allow them to offer additional support and assistance with everyday tasks. For instance, an ADHD spouse could help with cooking or cleaning, while your close friend can be an excellent listener when you're feeling overwhelmed.
Select a reputable organization in the event you're considering joining an ADHD support group. Be wary of social media forums and sites that allow anyone to post. These forums may offer advice that is contrary to medical guidelines, or even harmful. Support groups should be utilized as part of a treatment plan which includes therapy, medication, and skills training.