ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People suffering from ADHD often suffer from a variety of symptoms that make it difficult to succeed at school or work. Sometimes, these issues are not properly diagnosed.
Adults with adhd who are not taking medication may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to develop better ways of thinking about stress and how to deal with it. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help.
Medications
Many people aren't thrilled to think of taking medicine but the right medicine can make a huge difference. ADHD medication boosts brain chemicals which affect concentration, attention, and impulse control. Doctors usually prescribe them in small doses first and gradually increase the dosage until ADHD symptoms are reduced. Patients taking ADHD medicines have regular checkups to determine whether the medication is working and to monitor for any side effects.
Stimulants are the most popular medicines for treating ADHD. They are taken through the mouth and come in various forms, including tablets that can be swallowed, chewed or dissolved capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food and liquids that can be ingested or mixed with water. These medicines are usually consumed once a day by the majority of people. 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 aged over 5, but can be prescribed to teenagers and adults who haven't been able to respond to other treatments.
There are various other medications that treat ADHD. However, they are less common in children due to the possibility of adverse effects. Monoamine oxidase inhibiters are antidepressants that may help those suffering from ADHD. They do this by increasing levels of brain chemicals like serotonin, norepinephrine and. They are typically only used if other treatments fail however, they have been linked to a variety of deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most common monoamine inhibitor of oxidase is the drug phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a newer form of this drug that has been proven to treat ADHD in a few patients, but has not been studied as extensively.
Psychological and psychiatric disorders may mimic the symptoms of ADHD in both adults and children. These include mood disorders (such as anxiety) and adjustment disorders and personality disorders. Antisocial personality disorder is a frequent personality disorder that affects adults with ADHD. If a patient is suffering from an underlying condition that is causing ADHD and other mental disorders, doctors attempt to treat the most severe symptoms of the other disorders prior to attempting medications for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people suffering from ADHD find that medications are not effective and may seek out other treatment options. They are usually referred to as alternative or complementary medicine (CAM). They include certain nutritional supplements, foods and exercise, sleep training and meditation, yoga, and neurofeedback, a brain-based treatment. These treatments are an excellent supplement to any ADHD treatment program.
Many people with ADHD say that certain foods increase their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts recommend keeping a food diary to determine if certain food items trigger symptoms. If you notice that ADHD symptoms are getting worse or better after eating certain food items, it is important to talk with their doctor, who could suggest seeing an dietitian.
Some people with ADHD notice that they feel more relaxed when they take certain vitamins or supplements. However there's not a lot of evidence to suggest that these supplements really work. Before you try any of these supplements it's best to consult your physician because they could interact with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is beneficial to all, but it is especially beneficial for people with ADHD. Studies show that moderate-intensity exercise aids in the release of chemicals that help to regulate attention and behavior. It's most effective when you exercise outside and far from computers, televisions and video games.
Another alternative that's not medication is a behavioral therapy. It teaches new ways of behaving and is often best suited for children under five. It is also beneficial for older children and adults. It is typically coupled with cognitive behavior therapy, which aims at changing negative thoughts and beliefs.
A type of behavior therapy known as sensory integration training tries to teach the brain how to respond to sensory signals such as seeing, hearing and touching. This is a relatively new method and more research is required. It's worth considering, especially if a person with ADHD also has mental health issues of their own.
Counseling
Certain people with ADHD find relief from depression and anxiety by getting psychotherapy. It can be offered by qualified therapists or as groups. Therapies that involve talking, like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help you understand 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."
There are a myriad of options for treating adhd that do not require medication. They include establishing healthy sleeping routines, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and regular exercise. It is recommended to consult with your doctor before attempting to eliminate any food items or supplements.
You can also find help through self-help and support groups. These can help you overcome a range of problems, like managing anxiety, relationships or low self-esteem. These services are available in person, over the phone or online. A lot of these services are offered for free or cost very little.
Behavioral therapy is often the first option for children with ADHD however it is also helpful 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 might teach you positive reinforcement as well as a reward systems.
A therapist may also help you and your child to recognize when symptoms are occurring and how to calm them down. This is particularly useful 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 like progressive muscle relaxation deep breathing, visualization, and meditation.
Behavioral therapy can also include training for teachers to help them to assist students with ADHD. For example, the counselor might suggest using "report cards" to let teachers know that your child has fulfilled the behavior goals set by him or her at school that day. They could then offer him a reward for good behavior. Research shows that these types of programs can greatly increase the capacity of children and adults with ADHD to perform in their daily lives.
Support Groups
Adults who suffer from ADHD often struggle to understand their symptoms and behaviors that can be overwhelming. Support groups can help them find empathy and support from others who have similar experiences. They can also learn new strategies for coping and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are run professionally, while others are peer-led. Some support groups offer educational materials, workshops and guest speakers. Additionally, support groups can offer a place where members can meet and collaborate with others to share their resources.
medications for adhd can be an ideal alternative for those who are not able to attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example, has an online forum that allows members to exchange ideas and interact. The site also includes a list of professionals ADHD coaches and other sources. You can also search for online ADHD support groups through their health insurance, or an online site that provides mental health services. For example, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) at many companies can cover counseling or therapy for people with mental health issues, including ADHD.
Other sources of support from social networks include family and friends. Inform those closest to you that you have ADHD so they can offer additional support and assistance with everyday tasks. For example, an ADHD spouse could assist with the preparation of meals or cleaning, and an acquaintance could be an excellent listener when feeling overwhelmed.
Select a reputable organization when you're considering joining an ADHD support group. Be cautious of social media forums that allow anyone to post. These forums can give advice that is contrary to medical guidelines, or could be harmful. Support groups should be considered as part of a treatment plan that includes therapy, medication, and skills training.