ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People suffering from ADHD typically experience a range of symptoms that make it hard to perform well at work or in school. Sometimes, these issues are misdiagnosed.
Adults suffering from adhd who are not taking medication may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy in order to learn better ways of thinking about stress and how to respond. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also aid.
Medicines
Many people are hesitant to take medication, however the correct medication can make all the difference. ADHD medication boosts brain chemicals which affect concentration, attention and impulse control. Doctors typically prescribe them in small doses initially and gradually increase the dosage until the ADHD symptoms improve. Regular checkups are required for those who are taking ADHD medications to determine whether they're working and to track any adverse effects.
The most popular medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. 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 opened and sprinkled on food items; and liquids that can be mixed with water or taken. The majority of people take these medications once a day. The most common stimulants are methylphenidates (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall) and amphetamines. Both stimulants work by stimulating specific areas of the brain in order to improve concentration and decrease impulsive behavior. They are typically given to children who are older than 5, however, they may also be prescribed to adults and teenagers who haven't responded to other treatments.
There are various other medications that treat ADHD. However, these are less popular among children due to their potential negative side consequences. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are antidepressants that aid in treating ADHD by increasing levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and serotonin. They are generally only used if other treatments don't work however, they have been linked to a variety of deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most commonly used monoamine oxidese inhibitor is Phenelzine, which is also known as Nardil. Venlafaxine is a more recent version of this drug that has been proven to treat ADHD in a small number of patients, but it has not been studied as thoroughly.
Children and adults alike can suffer from symptoms similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders and a few 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 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 do not find medications beneficial, and they may look for other treatments. These treatments are often referred to as complementary or alternative medicine. They can be found in eating certain foods supplementing nutritional intake, exercise, sleep training, meditation, yoga and brain-based therapies such neurofeedback. These treatments are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment program.
Many people with ADHD believe that certain food items increase their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts also recommend keeping a food diary to see if any particular foods cause symptoms. If a person notices that their ADHD symptoms get better or worse after eating certain foods, it's important to discuss this with a doctor, who may suggest seeing a dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD notice that they feel better after they take certain supplements or vitamins. There's not much evidence that these supplements work. It's best to consult with your doctor prior to taking any of these supplements, because they could interfere with certain medications.
Regular exercise is good for everyone, but it appears to be particularly beneficial to those with ADHD. Studies show that moderate to intense exercise can help the brain release chemicals that aid in controlling attention and behavior. It's particularly effective when it takes place outside and away from TVs or computers, as well as video games.
A behavioral therapy is a second treatment that doesn't require medication. It teaches new ways of behaving and is usually best for children younger than five. It is also beneficial for older children and adults. It is usually combined with cognitive behavior therapy, which is aimed at changing negative beliefs and thoughts.
A form of behavior therapy known as sensory integration training is designed to teach the brain to respond to sensory signals, such as seeing, hearing and touching. This is a relatively new treatment and further research is required. It's certainly worth a try, especially if the person with ADHD has mental health issues.
Counseling
Certain people with ADHD find relief from anxiety and depression by getting psychotherapy, which can be offered by qualified therapists or in groups. Talking therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in managing your issues and manage stress. For example, CBT helps you change irrational or negative thoughts, like "I always fail" or "this isn't going to work."
In addition to counseling, there are many alternatives to treating adhd without medication, including establishing healthy sleep habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and getting regular exercise. However, you should not attempt to eliminate foods or supplements without medical advice from your physician.
You can also seek help by joining self-help and support groups. These groups can assist with a variety of issues, such as managing anxiety, relationships, or low self-esteem. These services can be provided in person over the phone, in person or via the internet. Many of these services are offered for free or cost very little.
Behavioral therapy is usually the first choice for children with ADHD, but it is equally beneficial for adults and teens. In a behavioral therapy session the child and you are helped by a trained professional to develop strategies to lessen the symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of your family. For example, the counselor might show you to use positive reinforcement and reward systems.
A therapist may also help your child and you to recognize when signs are occurring and how to calm them down. This is particularly beneficial for parents who feel overwhelmed by their child's reckless behavior. A therapist may also suggest that you and your child learn relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation deep breathing, visualization, and meditation.
Behavioral therapy can also include training for teachers to make it easier for them to work with students who have ADHD. For example, the therapist might instruct you in using "report cards" to inform teachers when your child has met the behavior goals set by him or her at school the day. The therapist could then reward him for his good behavior. These kinds of interventions have been proven to improve the daily functioning of children and adults with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD often struggle to understand their behavior and symptoms that can be overwhelming. Support groups can help them gain understanding and encouragement from others who share similar experiences. They can also learn new ways of coping and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are run by professionals, whereas others are peer-led. Some offer workshops, educational materials, and guest speakers. Support groups can also be a source of an opportunity for participants to join with others and work together to make use of resources.
Online support groups are an ideal option for those who are unable to attend meetings in person. For instance, ADDitude magazine has an online forum that allows users to communicate with each other and receive advice. The site also includes a list of professional ADHD coaches and 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 related internet page , Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) in a number of businesses may provide counseling or therapy for people suffering from mental health issues, including ADHD.
Other sources of social support include family and friends. 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 could help with cooking or cleaning, while a close friend could be an excellent listener when you're overwhelmed.
Choose a reputable organization in the event you're considering joining an ADHD support group. Be cautious about social media platforms that allow anyone to post. These forums can give advice that is contrary to medical guidelines, or even harmful. Support groups should be a part of a complete treatment program that includes therapy, medication and skill-building.