ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People with ADHD typically experience a range of symptoms that make it hard to succeed at work or in school. Sometimes these problems are misdiagnosed.
Adults with adhd who don't take medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to learn better ways of thinking about stress and how to deal with it. A healthy diet and regular exercise aid in reducing stress.
Medicines
Many people don't want to think about taking medication but the right medicine can make a huge difference. ADHD medications increase brain chemicals which affect attention, concentration, and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them in small doses and then increase them gradually until ADHD symptoms improve. Regular checkups are required for those who are taking ADHD medications to confirm if they are working and to track any adverse 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 can be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolved; capsules that may be sprayed over food; and liquids which can be mixed with water or taken. The majority of people use these drugs 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 certain parts of the brain in order to improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behavior. They are typically prescribed to children over the age of 5but may be given to teenagers as well as adults who haven't had a response to other treatments.
Other kinds of medication are also used to treat ADHD, but these are less commonly used in children because they may have dangerous or unpleasant adverse effects. Monoamine oxide inhibitors are antidepressants that can aid in the treatment of ADHD by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and serotonin. They are usually only prescribed when other treatments don't work however they have been linked to a variety of deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most common monoamine oxidese inhibitor is phenelzine, also called Nardil. Venlafaxine is a more recent version of this drug that has been shown to treat ADHD in some patients, but has not been studied as extensively.
Children and adults alike can have symptoms that are similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders and some personality disorders, including antisocial personality disorder, which is seen in high numbers among adult patients suffering from ADHD (Mannuzza and co., 1998). If a patient is suffering from the comorbidity of ADHD with other psychiatric disorders or symptoms that are not treated, doctors will first address the most severe symptoms prior to they prescribe medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people suffering from ADHD do not find medications helpful, and may seek other treatments. These treatments are referred to as alternative or complementary therapies. They include certain nutritional supplements, foods, exercise, sleep training and meditation, yoga, and neurofeedback, a brain-based treatment. These treatments are an excellent addition to any ADHD treatment program.
Changing diet can be helpful, as many people with ADHD have reported that certain foods can cause symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts recommend keeping a food journal to determine if certain food items cause symptoms. If you notice that ADHD symptoms get worse or improve after eating certain foods, it is important to talk with their doctor, who could suggest seeing a dietitian.
Some people with ADHD feel better when they take certain supplements or vitamins. However there's a lack of evidence that these things actually work. It's a good idea to consult with your doctor prior to taking any of these supplements because they could cause problems with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but especially for those with ADHD. Studies show that moderate-intensity exercise helps the brain release chemical that helps control the attention span and behavior. It's especially effective if it is done outside and away from TVs, computers and video games.
Another alternative that's not medication is behavioral therapy. This helps to teach new ways of being and is usually best for children under five. It can also be useful for adults and older children. It is usually paired with cognitive behavioral therapy, which aims to alter negative beliefs and thoughts that could be the cause of the problems.
A form of behavior called sensory integration training attempts to teach the brain to react to sensory signals, such as hearing and sight. This is a relatively new treatment and further research is needed. It's worth trying, especially in the case that a person who suffers from ADHD also has other mental health problems.
Counseling
Certain people with ADHD can find relief from depression and anxiety by getting psychotherapy, which can be provided by therapists who are certified or in a group. Talking therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in managing your issues and manage stress. CBT for instance helps you overcome negative or unfounded thoughts such as "I always make mistakes" or "this will not work."
There are a variety of other treatments for adhd that do not involve medication. These include creating healthy sleeping habits, addressing nutritional deficiency, and regular exercise. But, you shouldn't try eliminating foods or supplements without medical advice from your doctor.
You can also get assistance through self-help groups or support groups. These groups can aid with a range of issues, such as managing anxiety, relationships, or low self-esteem. These services may be offered in person over the phone, in person or online. Many of these services are offered for free or cost very little.
Behavioral therapy is often the first choice for children suffering from ADHD, but it is beneficial for adults as well as teenagers. In a behavioral therapy session, you and your child are helped by a trained professional to develop strategies to help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve the overall functioning of your family. For instance, the therapist might teach you how to use positive reinforcement and reward systems.
A therapist can also teach you and your child to recognize when signs are occurring and how to calm them down. This is particularly helpful for parents who feel overwhelmed by the impulsive behaviors of their children. Therapists may also suggest instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, including meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization and deep breathing.
Behavioral therapy can also include training for teachers to help them to assist students with ADHD. The therapist might instruct you to use "report cards" to let teachers know that your child has achieved their behavior goals the day. adhd for adults medication can then give him a reward for good behavior. These kinds of strategies have been proven to improve the daily functioning of both adults and children with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD are often unable to comprehend their symptoms and behavior which can be a challenge. Support groups can help them gain acceptance and support from other people who share similar experiences. They can also learn new strategies for coping and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are run professionally and others are led by peers. Some groups provide educational materials including guest speakers, workshops and seminars. Support groups also offer the opportunity for members to meet with other members and collaborate to make use of resources.
Online support groups are a great alternative for those who cannot attend meetings in person. For instance, ADDitude magazine has an online forum that allows users to interact with one another and receive advice. The site also has an extensive list of professional ADHD coaches and other sources. You can also find online ADHD support groups through your health insurance or on websites that offer mental health services. For example, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) at a variety of businesses may provide counseling or therapy for people who suffer from mental health issues including ADHD.
Friends and family members are excellent sources of social support. It's crucial to let those closest to you know that you have ADHD, so they can be more understanding and assist with your daily tasks. For example, an ADHD spouse could assist with meal preparation or cleaning, and an acquaintance could be an excellent listener when you're overwhelmed.
If you're considering joining an ADHD support group, be sure to choose a well-respected group. Be cautious about social media forums that allow anyone to post. These forums may offer advice that is against medical guidelines, or even harmful. Support groups should be considered as part of a treatment program which includes therapy, medication and skills training.