ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People suffering from ADHD often suffer from a variety of symptoms that make it hard to perform well at school or work. The problem can be misdiagnosed.
Adults with adhd who don't take medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to develop better ways of thinking about stress and how to handle it. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also aid.
Medications
Many people are reluctant to take medication, however the right medication can make all the difference. ADHD medications boost brain chemicals that affect attention, concentration and impulse control. Doctors recommend them initially in small doses and increase them gradually until ADHD symptoms improve. Regular checks are recommended for those taking ADHD medications to confirm whether they are effective and to track any adverse effects.
best adhd medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are taken through the mouth and come in different forms, including tablets that can be chewed, swallowed or dissolved capsules that are opened and sprinkled onto food items and liquids that can be swallowed or mixed with water. The majority of people take these medications every day. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). Both stimulants work by stimulating specific regions of the brain to improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behavior. They are typically given to children older than 5, but they are also available to teens and adults who haven't had a positive response to other treatments.
There are other drugs that are used to treat ADHD. However, these are less common in children due to their potential adverse consequences. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are antidepressants that can aid with ADHD. They do this by increasing the levels of brain chemicals like serotonin, norepinephrine and. They are generally only prescribed when other treatments fail, but have been linked to a number of deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most commonly used monoamine inhibitor of oxidase is Phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a more recent version of this medication that has been found to treat ADHD in some patients, but it has not been researched as thoroughly as the other forms of ADHD.
Adults and children alike can have symptoms that are similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders (such as anxiety), adjustment disorders, and personality disorders. Antisocial personality disorder is a frequent personality disorder that affects adults with ADHD. If a patient is suffering from an underlying condition that is causing 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 suffering from ADHD find that medication is not effective, and they may seek out other treatment options. These are generally considered alternative or complementary therapies (CAM). They involve eating certain food items as well as taking nutritional supplements, sleep training, exercise, meditation, yoga and brain-based therapies such as neurofeedback. These therapies are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment program.
Many people suffering from ADHD say that certain foods can cause symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts also recommend keeping a food journal to see if any particular foods cause symptoms. If a person notices that their ADHD symptoms improve or become worse after eating certain foods it is important to discuss the issue with a doctor, who may suggest seeing a dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD notice that they feel better after they take certain vitamins or supplements. There's not much evidence that these supplements work. Before attempting any of these supplements it's recommended to talk to your doctor in case they interfere with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is beneficial for all, but it appears to be especially beneficial for people with ADHD. Studies show that moderate-intensity exercise can help the brain release chemicals that help control the behavior and attention. It's particularly effective when it's done outdoors and away from TVs computers, video games and other screens.
Another treatment that's not a medication is called behavioral therapy. This teaches new ways of behaving and often works best for children younger than five. It can be beneficial for older children and adults. It's typically combined with cognitive behavioral therapy which aims to alter negative beliefs and thoughts that may be causing the issues.
A form of therapy for behavior called sensory integration training tries to teach the brain to respond to sensory signals, such as seeing, hearing and touching. This is a relatively new approach and more research is required. It's worth a try, particularly if a person with ADHD has other mental health problems.
Counseling
Certain people with ADHD can find relief from anxiety and depression by getting psychotherapy, which is offered by qualified therapists or as an entire group. Psychotherapy that involves talking, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in managing your issues and manage stress. For adhd medication for adults uk , CBT helps you change negative or irrational thoughts, like "I always mess up" or "this isn't going to work."
There are a variety of other treatments for adhd that do not involve medication. They include establishing healthy sleeping habits, addressing nutritional deficiency and exercising regularly. Consult your physician before attempting to eliminate any food items or supplements.
You can also get assistance by joining self-help and support groups. These groups can assist with a wide range of issues, such as managing relationships, anxiety or low self-esteem. These may be available in person, online, or over the phone. A lot of these services are free or are very inexpensive.
Behavioral therapy is a good option for children with ADHD. It can also be beneficial for teenagers and adults. In a behavioral therapy session, a qualified therapist assists you and your child develop strategies to decrease symptoms of ADHD and improve family functioning. The therapist may teach you positive reinforcement as well as a reward systems.
A therapist may also help you and your child to recognize when symptoms are present and how to calm. This is particularly beneficial for parents who may feel overwhelmed by their child's unpredictable behavior. A therapist may also suggest teaching your child and you relaxation techniques, including meditation or progressive muscle relaxation visualization and deep breathing.
Teachers are also trained in behavior therapy to help them better work with ADHD students. For instance, a therapy therapist could instruct you on using "report cards" to let teachers know that your child has achieved his or her goals for behavior at school during the day. The therapist can then reward him for his good behavior. These kinds of strategies have been shown to improve the functioning of both adults and children with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults with ADHD often have difficulty understanding their behaviors and symptoms that can be overwhelming. Support groups can help them gain acceptance and support from other people who have experienced similar issues. They can also learn new coping skills and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are led professionally and others are facilitated by peer. Some support groups offer educational materials, workshops and guest speakers. In addition support groups can offer a place where members can meet and collaborate with other members to share resources.
Online support groups can be an ideal alternative for those who are not able to attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example, has an online forum that allows members to exchange ideas and interact. The website has a list with professional ADHD coaches and other sources. You can also search for online ADHD support groups through their health insurance or an online site that provides mental health services. For instance, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) at many companies can cover counseling or therapy for people who suffer from 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 have ADHD to give them more assistance and support with everyday tasks. An ADHD spouse could help with meal prep or cleaning. A friend or family member can be a great listener if you feel overwhelmed.
Choose a reputable organization if you're thinking about joining an ADHD support group. You should also be wary of social media forums sites that allow anyone to post. They can offer advice that is against medical guidelines, or even harmful. Support groups should be utilized as part of a treatment plan which includes therapy, medication and training in skills.