ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People with ADHD often suffer from a variety of symptoms that make it difficult to perform well at school or work. These issues could be misdiagnosed.
Adults suffering from adhd who don't take medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy in order to learn better ways of thinking about stress and how to respond. A healthy diet and regular exercise also can help.
The effects of medication
Many people are reluctant to take medication, however the right medication can make all the difference. ADHD medications increase brain chemicals which affect concentration, attention and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them in small doses, and then increase them gradually until the ADHD symptoms are improved. Patients taking ADHD medication are required to have regular checkups to see whether the medication is working and to watch for side effects.
The most common medicine to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are taken orally and are available in a variety of forms. These include tablets that can either be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolved; capsules that may be sprayed over food items; and liquids that can be mixed with water or taken. The majority of people use these drugs daily. The most popular stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). Both stimulants are effective in stimulating specific areas of the brain to improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behavior. They are often prescribed for children over the age of 5but may be given to teenagers as well as adults who haven't responded to other treatments.
There are other medications that are used to treat ADHD. However, these are less common in children due to their potential negative side effects. Monoamine oxidase inhibiters are antidepressants which can help with ADHD. They accomplish this by increasing brain chemicals, including norepinephrine, and serotonin. They are only prescribed when other treatments do not work. However they have been linked to several deaths due to heart rhythm issues. The most common monoamine oxidese inhibitor is phenelzine, also known as Nardil. Venlafaxine is a newer version of this drug has also been shown to be effective in treating ADHD in some people but isn't as extensively studied.
Adults and children alike can have symptoms that are similar to ADHD. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders and a few personality disorders, particularly antisocial personality disorder, which is found in high numbers in adult patients with ADHD (Mannuzza and co., 1998). If a patient suffers from comorbid ADHD with other psychiatric disorders or symptoms that are not treated, doctors will first address the most severe symptoms before they prescribe medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people with ADHD are not able to find medication beneficial, and they may look for alternative treatment options. I Am Psychiatry are considered complementary or alternative medicine. They include certain foods, nutritional supplements as well as sleep training, exercise and meditation, yoga, and brain-based treatments like neurofeedback. These treatments are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment program.
Many people suffering from ADHD believe that certain food items exacerbate their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts also suggest keeping a food diary to determine if certain food items trigger symptoms. If anyone notices that ADHD symptoms are getting worse or better after eating certain food items, it is essential to speak with their doctor, who might suggest seeing a dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD are more comfortable after taking certain vitamins or supplements. There isn't much evidence to suggest that these supplements work. It's a good idea to consult with your doctor prior to trying any of these supplements since they may interfere with some medications.
Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but particularly for those with ADHD. Research has shown that moderate intensity exercise aids in the release of chemicals that help control the behavior and attention. It's most effective when you exercise outside away from televisions, computers, and video games.
A behavioral therapy is a different treatment that doesn't require medication. This helps to teach new ways of being and is often best suited for children who are less than five. It can also be beneficial for older children and adults. It is usually paired with cognitive behavioral therapy which aims to alter negative thoughts and beliefs that may be causing the problems.
A form of behavior called sensory integration training aims to teach the brain how to respond to sensory signals, such as hearing and sight. It's a relatively new treatment, and more research is required. However, it's worth a shot, especially in cases where the person suffering from ADHD is suffering from other mental health issues.
Counseling
Psychotherapy can help patients with ADHD overcome anxiety and depression. It is offered by trained therapists or in a group. Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help you understand how to manage your issues and manage stress. For example, CBT helps you change negative or irrational thoughts, such as "I always make mistakes" or "this will not work."
In addition to counseling, there are other treatments for adhd no medication, such as establishing healthy sleep habits, fixing nutritional deficiencies, and completing regular exercise. Consult your physician before trying to eliminate any food items or supplements.
You can also seek help through self-help groups or support groups. These groups can assist you with a variety of problems, like managing relationships, anxiety or low self-esteem. These services are available in person, over the phone or online. A majority of these services are cost-free or are cost-free.
Behavioral therapy is a good option for children who have ADHD. It is also beneficial for teenagers and adults. In behavioral therapy, a trained therapist can help you and your child develop strategies to lessen the symptoms of ADHD and improve family functioning. The therapist can teach you positive reinforcement as well as a reward system.
You and your child can also learn from a therapist to calm yourself down when you observe signs. This is especially useful for parents who may feel overwhelmed by their child's reckless behavior. Therapists may also suggest teaching your child and you relaxation techniques, including meditation or progressive muscle relaxation visualization and deep breathing.
Behavioral therapy may also include training for teachers to help them to work with students who have ADHD. The therapist may instruct you to use "report cards" to let teachers know if your child has achieved their behavior goals during the day. They could then offer the child a reward to encourage good behavior. These kinds of strategies have been proven to improve the daily functioning of adults and children with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults with ADHD often struggle to understand their behavior and symptoms, which can feel overwhelming. Support groups can help adults with ADHD find acceptance and support from others who share similar experiences. They can also learn new coping skills and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are led by professionals, while others are led by peers. Some support groups offer workshops, educational materials, and guest speakers. Support groups also offer an opportunity for participants to meet with other members and collaborate to make use of resources.
Online support groups are a good alternative for those who cannot attend meetings in person. For example, ADDitude magazine has an online forum where users can interact with one another and seek advice. The site also offers a list of professionals ADHD coaches and other resources. You can also find online ADHD support groups through your health insurance or websites that offer mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), for example could provide counseling and therapy for people with mental health issues including ADHD.
Other sources of social support include friends and family. Let your closest friends and family know that you suffer from ADHD to allow them to offer more support and help with daily tasks. A ADHD spouse can assist with meal prep or cleaning. A friend or family member can be a great listener if you feel overwhelmed.
If you're thinking about joining an ADHD support group, be sure you select a respected organization. Beware of social media forums and sites that allow anyone to post. The advice given in these places can conflict with medical advice and could be harmful or inaccurate. In the end, support groups should be used as part of a treatment program that includes therapy, medication and training in skills.