ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People with ADHD often suffer from a variety of symptoms that make it difficult for them to do well at work or school. These problems could be mistakenly diagnosed.
Adults suffering from adhd who don't take medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to develop better ways of thinking about stress and how to deal with it. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also help.
Medicines
Many people aren't thrilled to think about taking medication but the right medicine can make a big difference. ADHD medications increase brain chemicals that affect attention, concentration and impulse control. Doctors typically prescribe them in small doses first and then gradually increase them until ADHD symptoms diminish. Patients taking ADHD medication are required to have regular checkups to see if the medication is working and to monitor for any side effects.
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are taken orally and come in a variety of forms. They include tablets that may be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolving in capsules that can be sprayed over food items; and liquids that can be mixed with water or taken. Most people take these medicines once a day. The most frequently used stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). Both stimulants work by stimulating specific areas of the brain to improve concentration and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. They are often prescribed for children over the age of 5but may be prescribed to teenagers and adults who haven't been able to respond to other treatments.
Other kinds of medication are also used to treat ADHD however they are less commonly used in children due to the possibility of dangerous or unpleasant adverse effects. Monoamine oxide inhibitors are antidepressants that can help with ADHD by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. They are only used when other treatments fail. However they have been linked to several deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most well-known monoamine inhibitor of oxidase is phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a newer version of this drug has been proven to be effective at treating ADHD in a few people, however it's not as extensively studied.
Both children and adults may experience symptoms similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders and a few personality disorders, including antisocial personality disorder, which is found in high numbers among adult patients suffering from ADHD (Mannuzza and co., 1998). If a patient suffers from comorbid ADHD and other psychiatric disorders. Doctors attempt to treat the most severe symptoms of the other disorders before attempting medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people with ADHD find that medication is not effective and may consider alternative treatment options. These are generally considered alternative or complementary medicine (CAM). They can be found in eating certain foods supplementing nutritional intake, exercises, sleep training yoga, meditation, and brain-based therapies like neurofeedback. These treatments are an excellent addition to any ADHD treatment plan.
Altering your diet can be beneficial for people suffering from 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 diary 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 might recommend seeing an dietitian.
Some people with ADHD feel better after taking certain supplements or vitamins. However, there's not a lot of evidence to suggest that these supplements really work. Before trying any of these supplements it's best to consult your physician, as they may interfere with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but it seems to be particularly beneficial for people with ADHD. Research has shown that moderate intensity exercise helps the brain release chemicals that help to regulate the attention span and behavior. It's especially effective if it's done outdoors, away from TVs, computers and video games.
Another alternative that's not medication is behavioral therapy. It is a method of teaching new ways to behave and is often best suited for children who are less than five. It can be beneficial for older children as well as adults. It's typically combined with cognitive behavioral therapy which aims to alter negative thoughts and beliefs that could be causing issues.
A form of behavior called sensory integration training is designed to train the brain to react to sensory signals, such as sight and hearing. This is a relatively new approach and more research is needed. However, it's worth a try, particularly when the person who suffers from ADHD has mental health issues.
Counseling
Certain people with ADHD get relief from anxiety and depression through psychotherapy. It can be offered by trained therapists or as an entire group. Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), can help you learn 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."
In addition to counseling, there are many other treatments for adhd no medication, including creating healthy sleeping habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and engaging in regular exercise. It is recommended to consult with your doctor before trying to eliminate any foods or supplements.
You can also get help by joining self-help and support groups. These groups can aid with a wide range of issues, such as managing anxiety, relationships, or low self-esteem. They can be accessed in person, online or over the phone. A majority of these services cost nothing or are completely free.
Behavioral therapy can be an excellent option for children with ADHD. It is also beneficial for adults and teens. In behavioral therapy the child and you are helped by a trained professional to develop strategies to lessen the symptoms of ADHD and improve the performance of your family. For example, the therapist might teach you to use positive reinforcement and reward systems.
adhd anxiety medication can also teach you and your child to recognize when signs are occurring and how to calm down. This is particularly helpful for parents who are overwhelmed by their child's reckless behavior. A therapist may also suggest teaching you and your child relaxation techniques, including meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, visualization and deep breathing.
Behavioral therapy can also include training for teachers to make it easier for them to assist students with ADHD. For instance, a therapist might instruct you in using "report cards" to let teachers know when your child has met the behavior goals set by him or her at school that day. The therapist could then reward him for his good behavior. Research shows that these types of interventions can significantly improve the ability of both children and adults with ADHD to function in their everyday lives.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD often have difficulty understanding their symptoms and behaviors, which can feel overwhelming. Support groups can help them gain empathy and support from others who have similar experiences. adhd treatment without medication can also learn new strategies to cope and techniques to improve their lives. Some support groups are run by professionals, while others are peer-led. Some support groups provide educational materials including guest speakers, workshops and seminars. Support groups can also provide a place where participants can join with others and work together to make use of resources.
Online support groups are a good alternative for those who are unable to attend meetings in person. For instance, ADDitude magazine has an online forum where people can interact with one another and get advice. adhd anxiety medication has a list with professional ADHD coaches as well as other resources. You can also locate online ADHD support groups via your health insurance or on websites which offer mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), for example, may offer counseling and therapy to people with mental health issues, including ADHD.
Other sources of social support include friends and family. Inform those closest to you that you suffer from ADHD to allow them to offer additional support and assistance with everyday tasks. An ADHD spouse can help in meal preparation or cleaning. A close friend can be a great listener when you're feeling overwhelmed.
Choose a reputable organization if you're thinking about joining an ADHD support group. Be cautious of social media platforms that allow anyone to post. These forums can give advice that is contrary to medical guidelines or harmful. Support groups should be a part of a complete treatment plan that includes therapy, medication, and skill training.