ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
ADHD can trigger a wide range of symptoms, which can make it difficult for people to perform well at work or school. Sometimes, these issues are misdiagnosed.
Adults with adhd who don't take medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy in order to learn better ways to think about stress and how to handle it. A healthy diet and regular exercise also help.
Medicines
Many people are reluctant to take medication, but the correct medication can make a huge difference. ADHD medicines boost brain chemicals that affect concentration, attention and impulse control. Doctors typically prescribe them in small doses first and gradually increase the dosage until the ADHD symptoms diminish. Patients taking ADHD medicines have regular checkups to see if the medication is working and to be aware of any adverse effects.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used medicines for treating ADHD. They are taken orally and come in a variety forms. They include tablets that can be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolvable in capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food items; and liquids that can be mixed with water or taken. The majority of people use these drugs every day. The most frequently used stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). Both work by stimulating certain areas of the brain to improve concentration and decrease impulsive behavior. They are typically prescribed to children over the age of 5, but can be prescribed to teenagers and adults who haven't been able to respond to other treatments.
There are other drugs that treat ADHD. However, these are less common in children due to the possibility of side consequences. Monoamine oxide inhibitors are antidepressants that can aid in the treatment of ADHD by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. They are usually only prescribed when other treatments don't work however, they have been linked to a number of deaths caused by heart rhythm problems. The most well-known monoamine inhibitor of oxidase is called Phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine, a newer version of this drug, has also been proven to be effective in treating ADHD in a few people, but it's not as well-studied.
Psychological and psychiatric disorders can mimic the symptoms of ADHD in both adults and children. These include mood disorders (such as anxiety) as well as adjustment disorders and personality disorders. Antisocial personality disorder is a common personality disorder in adults with ADHD. If a patient is suffering from comorbid ADHD and other mental disorders, doctors try to treat the most severe symptoms of the other disorders before trying medications for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people with ADHD find that medications are not effective and may look for other options for treatment. These are generally referred to as complementary or alternative medicine (CAM). They include eating certain foods, taking nutritional supplements and exercise, sleep training yoga, meditation, and brain-based therapies like neurofeedback. These treatments are an excellent supplement to any ADHD treatment program.
A change in diet can be beneficial for those with ADHD have reported that certain food items can aggravate their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts recommend keeping a food journal to determine whether certain foods trigger symptoms. If anyone notices that ADHD symptoms are getting worse or better after eating certain foods it is important to talk with their doctor, who could suggest they see a dietitian.
Some people with ADHD notice that they feel better after they take certain vitamins or supplements. However, there's not a lot of evidence that these things actually work. Before trying any of these supplements it's best to consult your doctor because they could interact with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but especially for those suffering from ADHD. Studies have shown that moderate to intense exercise can help the brain release chemicals that help control attention and behavior. It's especially effective if it takes place outside, away from TVs computers, video games and other screens.
A behavioral therapy is a different treatment that doesn't involve medication. This treatment helps children learn how to behave in a new way and is best suited for children who are younger than five years old. It can be helpful for older children as well as adults. It is often used in conjunction with cognitive behavior therapy, which aims at changing negative thoughts and beliefs.
A type of therapy for behavior called sensory integration training attempts to teach the brain how to respond to sensory signals like sight, hearing and touch. This is a relatively new treatment and more research is required. It's worth considering, especially when a person suffering from ADHD has other mental health problems.
Counseling
Psychotherapy can help some patients with ADHD overcome depression and anxiety. It is offered by qualified therapists, or in groups. Therapy that involves talking, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), can help you understand how to manage your problems and manage stress. For instance, CBT helps you change negative or irrational thoughts such as "I always mess up" or "this isn't working."
In addition to counseling, there are many other options for treating adhd that do not require medication, such as establishing healthy sleep habits, fixing nutritional deficiencies, and completing regular exercise. However, you should not try eliminating food items or supplements without seeking the advice of your doctor.
You can also find help through self-help and support groups. These groups can assist with a variety of issues, including managing relationships, anxiety, or low self-esteem. These services may be offered in person, over the phone or via the internet. A majority of these services are free or are very inexpensive.
Behavioral therapy is an ideal option for children with ADHD. It can also be beneficial for teens and adults. In a behavioral therapy session, a trained therapist can help you and your child to develop strategies to reduce symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of the family. For instance, a counselor might show you to use positive reinforcement and reward systems.
A therapist may also help you and your child to recognize when signs are occurring and how to calm. This is particularly helpful for parents who are overwhelmed by their child's reckless behavior. Therapists may also suggest instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, including meditation or progressive muscle relaxation visualization, and deep breathing.
Teachers can also be trained in the field of behavioral therapy to help them better deal with ADHD students. For instance, a therapy therapist could instruct you on using "report cards" to let teachers know when your child has met his or her goals for behavior at school that day. They could then offer him a reward for good behavior. These types of interventions have been proven to improve the daily functioning of children and adults with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults with ADHD can find it difficult to understand their behavior and symptoms that can be overwhelming. Support groups can help them find empathy and support from others who have experienced similar issues. They can also learn new strategies to cope and improve their lives. Some support groups are run by professionals, whereas others are peer-led. Some support groups offer workshops, educational materials and guest speakers. Additionally support groups can offer a place in which participants can connect and collaborate with other members to share their resources.
Online support groups are a great alternative for those who can't meet in person. ADDitude magazine, for example, has an online forum that allows members to interact and exchange advice. The site has an extensive list of professionals ADHD coaches and other resources. It is also possible to find online ADHD support groups through their health insurance plan or an online site that provides mental health services. For example, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) in a number of companies may cover counseling or therapy for those who suffer from mental health issues including ADHD.
Other sources of social support include family and friends. Let those closest to know that you suffer from ADHD so they can offer more assistance and support with everyday tasks. For medication for adhd , an ADHD spouse could help with the preparation of meals or cleaning, whereas an acquaintance could be a great listener when you're feeling overwhelmed.
Choose a reputable group if you're thinking about joining an ADHD support group. Beware of forums on social media sites that allow anyone to post. The advice given in these forums may not be consistent with medical guidelines and may be inaccurate or harmful. Support groups should form part of a complete treatment plan that includes medication, therapy and skill-building.