ADHD Medications and Other Treatments

People with ADHD typically experience a range of symptoms that make it hard to succeed at school or work. Sometimes these problems are misdiagnosed.

Psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy, can aid people suffering from adhd without medication learn healthier ways of thinking and responding to stress. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also help.

Medications

Many people are reluctant to take medication, but the correct medication can make all the difference. ADHD medications boost brain chemicals that affect concentration, attention and impulse control. Doctors recommend them initially in small doses and then increase them gradually until ADHD symptoms are reduced. Patients taking ADHD medication are required to have regular checkups to see if the medication is working and to watch for side effects.

Stimulants are the most popular medicines for treating ADHD. They are taken orally and come in a variety of forms. These include tablets that can be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolving 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 take these medications daily. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidates (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall) and amphetamines. Both work by stimulating certain parts of the brain to increase concentration and reduce impulsive behavior. They are usually prescribed to children older than 5 years old, but they may also be prescribed to adults and teenagers who have not responded to other treatments.

There are other medications that are used to treat ADHD. However, these are less popular among children due to the possibility of adverse negative effects. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are antidepressants that can aid those suffering from ADHD. They accomplish this by increasing brain chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine. They are usually only used if other treatments fail however, they have been linked to a variety of deaths caused by heart rhythm issues. The most common monoamine oxidese inhibitor is phenelzine, also known as Nardil. Venlafaxine is a newer form of this drug that has been proven to treat ADHD in a few patients, but is not studied as thoroughly as the other forms of ADHD.

Psychological and psychiatric disorders may mimic the symptoms of ADHD in both children and adults. These include mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders, and other personality disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder, which is seen at high rates in adults suffering from ADHD (Mannuzza and co., 1998). If a patient suffers from comorbid ADHD with other psychiatric disorders and symptoms, doctors will first treat the most severe symptoms before they prescribe medication for ADHD.

Alternative Treatments

Many people suffering from ADHD find that medications are not effective and may seek out other options for treatment. These are generally referred to as alternative or complementary therapies (CAM). They can be found in eating certain foods, taking nutritional supplements and exercises, sleep training yoga, meditation, and brain-based therapies like neurofeedback. These treatments are an excellent addition to any ADHD treatment strategy.

A change in diet can be beneficial for people suffering from ADHD have reported that certain foods worsen their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts suggest keeping a food journal to determine whether certain foods cause symptoms. If a person notices that their ADHD symptoms improve or get worse following eating certain foods, it's important to discuss this with a doctor and ask for advice from an dietitian.

Some people with ADHD feel better after taking certain supplements or vitamins. However there's a lack of evidence to suggest that these supplements really work. It's best Medicine for adhd and social anxiety to talk to your doctor before taking any of these supplements because they could cause problems with certain medicines.

Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but particularly for people with ADHD. Studies have shown that moderate intensity exercise aids in the release of chemicals that help to regulate the attention span and behavior. It's particularly effective if it is done outside away from televisions, computers and video games.

A behavioral therapy is a different option that doesn't require medication. It helps to teach new ways of being and often works best for children younger than five. It is also beneficial for adults and older children. It is typically 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 tries to teach the brain how to respond to sensory signals, such as hearing, sight and touch. This is a relatively new treatment and more research is needed. It's worth a try, particularly in the case that a person who suffers from ADHD has mental health issues of their own.

Counseling

Certain people with ADHD can find relief from depression and anxiety by seeking psychotherapy, which can be offered by trained therapists or in an entire group. Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help you learn to manage your issues and manage stress. For instance, 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 alternatives to treating adhd without medication, such as establishing healthy sleep habits, fixing nutritional deficiencies, and completing regular exercise. However, you should not try eliminating foods or supplements without the advice of your doctor.

You can also get assistance through self-help or support groups. These groups can assist with a variety of issues, such as 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 cost very little.

Behavioral therapy can be an ideal option for children who have ADHD. It can also be beneficial for teens and adults. In behavioral therapy, a qualified therapist assists you and your child develop strategies to lessen the symptoms of ADHD and improve family functioning. For instance, the counselor might show you how to utilize positive reinforcement and reward systems.

Your child and you can also learn from a therapist to calm yourself down when you notice signs. This is particularly helpful for parents who are overwhelmed by the impulsive behavior of their children. Therapists may also suggest instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, such as meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, visualization and deep breathing.

Teachers are also trained in behavioral therapy to assist them in their manage ADHD students. The therapist may instruct you to use "report cards" in order to inform teachers if your child has met their behavior goals during the day. The therapist can then reward him for good behavior. These types of interventions have been shown to improve the daily functioning of adults and children with ADHD.

Support Groups

Adults suffering from ADHD often struggle to comprehend their behaviors and symptoms which can be overwhelming. Support groups can help those with ADHD find acceptance and support from others who share similar experiences. They can also learn new strategies for coping and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are led professionally and others are led by peers. Some support groups provide educational materials including guest speakers, workshops and seminars. In addition, support groups can offer a place where members can meet and collaborate with others to share resources.

Online support groups are an excellent alternative for those unable to attend meetings in person. For example, ADDitude magazine has an online forum where people can communicate with each other and receive advice. The website has an index of professional ADHD coaches as well as other resources. You can also locate online ADHD support groups via your health insurance plan or sites that offer mental health services. For instance, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) at a variety of companies can cover therapy or counseling for individuals with mental health issues, including ADHD.

Other sources of support from social networks include friends and family. Let your closest friends and family know that you suffer from ADHD to give them additional support and assistance with everyday tasks. An strattera adhd medication spouse could help in meal preparation or cleaning. A close friend can be a great listener when you feel overwhelmed.

If you're considering joining an ADHD support group, be sure you select a respected group. Be wary of social media sites that permit anyone to post. These forums may offer advice that is against medical guidelines or harmful. Support groups should be utilized as part of a treatment program that includes therapy, medication and skills training.