ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People suffering from ADHD often experience a variety of symptoms that make it hard to succeed at work or school. Sometimes these problems are misdiagnosed.
Adults with adhd who don't take medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy in order to learn better ways to think about stress and how to deal with it. A healthy diet and regular exercise can also can help.
The effects of medication
Many people don't want to think of taking medicine but the right medicine can make a huge difference. ADHD medications boost brain chemicals that affect concentration, attention and impulse control. Doctors typically prescribe them in small doses at first and gradually increase the dosage until ADHD symptoms improve. Patients taking ADHD medicines have regular checkups to determine whether the medication is effective and to monitor for any side effects.
Stimulants are the most popular treatment for ADHD. They are taken orally and come in a variety of forms. They include tablets that may be chewed, swallowed whole or dissolvable into capsules that can be opened and sprinkled over food; and liquids which can be mixed with water or ingested. 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). They work by stimulating certain parts of the brain, which help improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviour. They are usually prescribed to children who are older than five, but they can also be prescribed to teenagers and adults who haven't had a response to other treatments.
There are other drugs that treat ADHD. However, these are less common in children due to their potential side effects. Monoamine Oxase inhibitors are antidepressants which can help with ADHD by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. They are generally only used when other treatments don't work however they have been linked to a variety of deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most commonly used monoamine oxidese inhibitor is Phenelzine. It's also called Nardil. Venlafaxine is a more recent version of this drug that has been shown to treat ADHD in a small number of patients, but is not studied as thoroughly.
Children and adults alike may experience symptoms similar to ADHD. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders and some personality disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder, which is seen at a high rate 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 with ADHD find that medication is not effective and may seek out alternative treatment options. They are usually referred to as complementary or alternative medicine (CAM). These include certain foods, nutritional supplements and exercise, sleep training and meditation, yoga and brain-based treatments like neurofeedback. These treatments are an excellent addition to any ADHD treatment program.
Many people with ADHD say that certain foods increase their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts suggest keeping a food diary to determine if certain food items trigger symptoms. If you notice that their ADHD symptoms improve or get worse following eating certain foods it is important to discuss the issue with a doctor who might suggest consulting a dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD feel better after taking certain vitamins or supplements. However, there's not a lot of evidence that suggests these products really work. Before you try any of these supplements it's best to consult your physician in case they interfere with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is beneficial to all, but it is especially beneficial for those with ADHD. Studies have shown that moderate to intense exercise helps the brain release chemicals that help control attention and behavior. It's especially effective if it is done outside, away from TVs or computers, as well as video games.
Another option that isn't a medication is called behavioral therapy. It teaches new ways of behaving and is usually best for children under five. It is also beneficial for adults and older children. It is often combined with cognitive behavior therapy, which aims at changing negative beliefs and thoughts.
A type of therapy for behavior called sensory integration training tries to teach the brain how to respond to sensory signals like seeing, hearing and touching. This is a relatively new treatment and more research is required. It's worth a try, particularly in the case that a person who suffers from ADHD has other mental health problems.
Counseling
Some people suffering from ADHD find relief from depression and anxiety by getting psychotherapy, which can be offered by qualified therapists or in a group. Therapy that involves talking, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help you learn to manage your problems and manage stress. CBT, for example helps you overcome negative or irrational thoughts, such as "I always fail" or "this won't work."
In addition to counseling, there are many other options for treating adhd that do not require medication, including creating healthy sleep habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and engaging in regular exercise. You should consult your doctor before attempting to eliminate any foods or supplements.
You can also get assistance through self-help and support groups. These groups can assist you deal with a range of problems, like managing relationships, anxiety, or low self-esteem. These may be available in person, online or over the phone. Many of these services cost nothing or are free.
Behavioral therapy is often the first option for children with ADHD however it is equally beneficial for adults and teens. In behavioral therapy, a trained therapist can help you and your child to develop strategies to decrease symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of the family. The therapist may teach you positive reinforcement and 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 feel overwhelmed by their child's unpredictable behavior. A therapist may also suggest instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, like meditation or progressive muscle relaxation visualization and deep breathing.
Teachers are also trained in the field of behavioral therapy to aid them in better deal with ADHD students. The therapist may instruct you to use "report cards" in order to let teachers know if your child has achieved the behavior goals they set for during the day. The therapist will then reward him for his good behavior. These kinds of strategies have been proven to improve the functioning of children and adults with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD are often unable to understand their symptoms and behaviors which can be a challenge. Support groups can help them gain empathy and support from others who share similar experiences. They can also learn new ways of coping and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are run professionally and others are facilitated by peer. Some offer workshops, educational materials and guest speakers. In addition support groups can offer a place that allows members to connect and collaborate with other members to share their resources.
Online support groups can be a great alternative for those who cannot attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example has an online forum that allows users to communicate and share advice. The site has an extensive list of professional ADHD coaches and other resources. You can also search for online ADHD support groups through their health insurance plan or an online site that provides mental health services. For adhd anxiety medication (EAPs) at many businesses may provide counseling or therapy for people with mental health issues, including ADHD.
Other sources of social support include friends and family. Let those closest to know that you suffer from ADHD to give them more assistance and support with daily tasks. An ADHD spouse could help with meal preparation or cleaning. A close friend can be a great listener when you are feeling overwhelmed.
Choose adhd medication for adults uk when you're considering joining an ADHD support group. Beware of social media forums sites that allow anyone to post. The advice offered in these places can conflict with medical guidelines and could be harmful or inaccurate. Support groups should be considered as part of a treatment plan that includes medication, therapy and training in skills.