ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
ADHD can cause a broad variety of symptoms that can cause people to be unable to perform at a high level at work or school. These problems can be mistakenly diagnosed.
Adults with adhd who don't take medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to learn better ways to think about stress and how to respond. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also be helpful.
Medicines
Many people are reluctant to take medicine, but the right medication can make all the difference. ADHD medications increase brain chemicals that affect attention, concentration and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them initially in small doses and increase them gradually until the ADHD symptoms are reduced. Regular checkups are necessary for those who are taking ADHD medication to determine whether they are effective and to check for any side effects.
Stimulants are the most common medicines for treating ADHD. They are taken orally and are available in a variety of forms. They include tablets that can be chewed, swallowed whole or dissolvable; capsules that may be sprayed over food; and liquids which can be mixed with water or swallowed. These medications are typically taken once daily by most people. The most common stimulants are methylphenidates (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall) and amphetamines. Both stimulants work by stimulating specific regions of the brain to improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behavior. They are usually given to children who are older than 5 years old, but they may also be prescribed to adults and teenagers who have not been able to respond to other treatments.
There are other drugs that are used to treat ADHD. However, they are less common in children due to their potential negative side negative effects. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are antidepressants that can aid those suffering from ADHD. They accomplish this by increasing brain chemicals, including norepinephrine, and serotonin. They are only prescribed when other treatments are not working. However, they have been linked to several deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most commonly used monoamine inhibitor of oxidase is Phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a more recent version of this medication that has been found to treat ADHD in a small number of patients, but it is not studied as thoroughly.
Both children and adults may experience symptoms similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders (such as anxiety) and adjustment disorders and personality disorders. Antisocial personality disorder is a common personality disorder in adults with ADHD. If a patient is suffering from co-occurring ADHD with other psychiatric disorders and symptoms such as anxiety, doctors will treat the most severe symptoms prior to they prescribe medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people with ADHD find that medication is not effective and may look for other treatment options. These treatments are often referred to as complementary or alternative medicine. These include certain foods, nutritional supplements, exercise, sleep training as well as yoga, meditation and brain-based treatments like neurofeedback. These treatments are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment program.
Altering your diet can be beneficial for people suffering from ADHD find that certain food items can aggravate their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts also recommend keeping a food journal to determine if specific foods cause symptoms. If anyone notices that ADHD symptoms improve or worsen after eating certain food items, it is crucial to talk to their doctor who may recommend seeing an dietitian.
Some people with ADHD notice that they feel better after they take certain supplements or vitamins. However there's a lack of evidence that these things actually work. Before trying any of these supplements it's recommended to talk to your doctor, as they may interfere with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but it seems to be particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD. Research has shown that moderate intensity exercise can help the brain release chemicals that help control the behavior and attention. It's most effective when you exercise outdoors, away from computers, televisions and video games.
Another treatment that's not a medication is called behavioral therapy. This helps to teach new ways of being and is often best suited for children under five. It can also be useful for older children and adults. It is usually used in conjunction with cognitive behavior therapy, which is aimed at changing negative thoughts and beliefs.
A kind of behavior known as sensory integration training aims to train the brain to respond to sensory signals such as hearing and sight. This is a relatively young treatment, and more research is required. It's worth trying, especially if a person with ADHD suffers from mental health issues.
Counseling
Psychotherapy can help patients with ADHD overcome depression and anxiety. It can be offered by therapists who are qualified, or in a group. Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), can help you learn how to manage your problems and manage stress. CBT for instance, helps you change negative or unfounded thoughts such as "I always fail" or "this will not work."
There are a myriad of treatment options for adhd that do not involve medication. These include developing healthy sleeping routines, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and regular exercise. But, you shouldn't attempt to cut out certain foods or supplements without medical advice from your doctor.
You can also get 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 online. A lot of these services are free or are free.
Behavioral therapy is often the first option for children suffering from ADHD however it is equally beneficial for adults and teenagers. In a behavioral therapy session the child and you are helped by a trained therapist to develop strategies to help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve the overall functioning of your family. The therapist can instruct you on positive reinforcement and a reward system.
You and your child can also learn from a therapist to calm yourself when you notice signs. This is especially helpful for parents who feel overwhelmed by the impulsive behavior of their children. Therapists may also suggest teaching your child and you relaxation techniques, including meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, and deep breathing.
Teachers can also be trained in behavior therapy to help them better manage ADHD students. For instance, a therapist might instruct you in using "report cards" to notify teachers that your child has fulfilled his or her behavior goals at school that day. The therapist can then reward him for good behavior. These kinds of interventions have been shown to improve the daily functioning of children and adults with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD often struggle to understand their behaviors and symptoms which can be overwhelming. Support groups can help adults with ADHD find empathy and support from those who share similar experiences. They can also learn new ways of coping and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are led by professionals, while others are peer-led. Some offer educational materials, workshops and guest speakers. Support groups can also provide a place where participants can connect with others and collaborate to share resources.
Online support groups can be a great alternative for those who cannot attend meetings in person. For instance, ADDitude magazine has an online forum where users can connect with one another and receive advice. The site also offers an extensive list of professional ADHD coaches and other sources. You can also find online ADHD support groups through your health insurance or on websites that provide mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), for example could provide counseling and therapy for those suffering from mental health issues like ADHD.
Family and friends are also excellent sources of social support. Inform those closest to you that you suffer from ADHD to give them more assistance and support with everyday tasks. For example, an ADHD spouse might help with cooking or cleaning, whereas your close friend can be an excellent listener when feeling overwhelmed.
If you're thinking of joining an ADHD support group, make sure you select a respected organization. Be adhd without medication of social media forums that allow anyone to post. The advice provided in these forums may not be consistent with medical guidelines and may be harmful or incorrect. Support groups should form part of a complete treatment program which includes therapy, medication, and skill training.