ADHD Without Medication
Non-drug treatments can be beneficial to people suffering from ADHD. These include cognitive behavior therapy and relaxation techniques. They can also improve their sleep and do more exercise, and deal with nutritional deficiencies.
Many children and adults discover that they are able to manage their symptoms without medication. Others require medication. Luckily, there are many different types of stimulants that can be used to treat ADHD.
Medicines
If behavioural treatment does not help, then medication is often employed to treat ADHD. These drugs can significantly improve how an individual with ADHD performs, slowing down impulsive and hyperactive behaviours, and increasing concentration, focus, and memory. However, these medications should be considered as a last resort, and should only be utilized for as long as is necessary. A medical professional should monitor any adverse effects and make any necessary dose changes.
There are several different types of medications that can be used to treat ADHD, including stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed treatment, and are effective by increasing the levels of two brain chemicals, namely norepinephrine and dopamine. These tablets are available in immediate-release (taken whenever required) as well as extended-release versions such as methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, and lisdexafetamine, (Adderall, Vyvanse). These are controlled substances, and carry a high risk.
Medications are most effective when they are taken regularly, and should be taken with food to minimize any side effects, such as stomach upset. If your child is having trouble sleeping due to the medication, or has a sudden change in mood, these are indicators that their dosage may need to be decreased. Children should be only given the recommended dosage of medication, and should not exceed the maximum daily dose.
The side effects of stimulant medications are typically mild. However, they can include headaches, stomach upset and a rise in blood pressure. They can also trigger sleep disturbances, particularly when they are taken in the evening. When medication for autism and adhd are stopped, they can cause a rebound effect which could lead to an energy drop or depression, as well as irritability.
Clonidine is a non-stimulant medication that can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. They are a form of alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that were initially developed to treat high blood pressure, but have been utilized "off-label" as an ADHD treatment for many years. They can be calming and can alleviate symptoms of impulsivity, aggression and feelings of depression, but they don't have the same effect as stimulant medications.
Behavioral therapy
While medication is an important aspect of treatment for ADHD but it's not the only option. Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for the disorder and provides numerous benefits that medication does not. Behavioral therapy is a method to help people manage their symptoms by helping them develop strategies and abilities. It can be used with or without medications.
Behavioral therapy is available in the form of psychotherapy, family counseling, or group therapy. During sessions, the therapist will instruct clients on strategies to improve executive functioning as well as attention span and strategies to reduce impulsivity. Therapists will also assist individuals to discover the causes behind their behavior, like problems with communication or negative perceptions about themselves and their abilities.
In certain situations therapists might require a client to keep a diary or journal where they can write down their thoughts and emotions. This can assist in identifying patterns and developing a plan to change unhelpful behavior. Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) is often effective for people suffering from ADHD. It helps them identify and challenge negative or unhelpful beliefs, and teaches them ways to relax and reduce stress. They can also develop the art of time management and organization and how to collaborate better with other people.
Family therapy can be especially effective for children with ADHD, as it helps parents improve their child's ability to follow directions and complete homework assignments. ADHD can be treated using the training of parents to be a behavioral parent and with peer interventions. Behavioral classroom management and modeling are two other types of behavioral therapy that could be effective in the school setting.
For adults, a number of lifestyle and dietary changes can make a big difference in improving ADHD symptoms. Changes in diet and exercise can help decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity, while mindfulness exercises and healthy sleep habits can improve attention and concentration. Adults with ADHD might benefit from a the behavioral therapy program that teaches them how to manage their emotions better.
Behavioral therapy can be beneficial for people with all levels of ADHD. It is important to speak with a licensed healthcare professional regarding the most effective treatment option for your specific situation.
Education
Children suffering from ADHD require instruction on how to learn in a manner that suits their brains. Learning in small bits and visualizing concepts, in addition to making lessons fun, may aid them in absorbing information faster. These strategies can be helpful both in and outside the classroom.
Counseling or psychotherapy can be beneficial for older children with ADHD. Therapists can assist parents and children to change their negative behavior, improve relationships within the family and cope with stress. They can also offer guidance on coexisting issues such as depression and anxiety disorders.
Adults suffering from ADHD might also benefit from psychotherapy. A therapist can provide a secure space to discuss concerns, such as low self-esteem, relationship issues and job-related dissatisfaction. Adults can manage their symptoms with behavioral therapy, and there are many online and offline support groups for people suffering from ADHD.
It is crucial that caregivers of children who have ADHD work closely with the teachers and school staff. These professionals can help develop strategies to tackle issues with academics and handle issues with behavior in the classroom. They can also recommend the child to other services and resources like therapy and counseling.
Children suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from participating in activities that challenge the mind and body. This will boost their self-esteem, and reduce stress at school. These include art projects as well as dance or music classes, and martial arts. It is important to ensure that these activities are consistent as routine and structure help reduce anxiety and increase concentration.
Exercise is an essential element of a healthy regimen and can also be beneficial for children suffering from ADHD. In an article published in the Journal of Pediatrics last year, children with ADHD who exercised for 20 minutes prior to taking a test performed better than their peers who were not exercising.
Teaching children to be more vocal about their desires and needs and incorporating frequent praises can improve the quality of interactions between students. A schedule that is posted on the wall or the desk of the child will help them stay organized throughout the day. It is also beneficial to to avoid abrupt transitions between activities, as this can trigger the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Self-help
It is possible to improve ADHD symptoms by using behavioral therapy and self-help techniques. Many people have successfully managed their symptoms without medication, though some might require medication to manage their symptoms. The treatments include lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and natural supplements. These methods can reduce symptoms, improve concentration, and promote overall wellness.
Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) therapy and group counseling can help adults suffering from ADHD learn to manage their symptoms. These tools can improve performance at work, home and at school, as well as increase confidence. CBT teaches how to cope with negative feelings and thoughts. It also assists people in developing strategies to deal with stress and difficulties.
The treatment for behavior can help people who have ADHD improve their organizational skills, decrease their impulsive behavior, and enhance their ability to stay focused. It can also help improve relationships with others and increase the quality of life. The best results are achieved through behavioral treatments that are started early and continue throughout childhood, adolescence and into adulthood.
One of the most popular ADHD treatment choices is stimulant medication. They can dramatically improve attention span and impulsivity, allowing people to achieve better results at the classroom and at work. While these medications have negative side effects, they are well-received by adults and children with ADHD.
Non-stimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, are available for people who aren't able to take stimulants because of medical conditions or substance abuse risk factors. These medications are more secure than stimulants since they are not controlled substances. They also don't cause euphoria. They increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain decreasing impulsivity, and increasing concentration.
People suffering from ADHD often have difficulty focusing on tasks that aren't appealing or interesting, even when they are motivated to complete them. These issues are caused by frontal lobe dysfunction. Even the most effective parenting cannot fix this condition. It can result in frustration, failure, emotional problems and even an inability to motivate.
The treatment of symptoms of ADHD with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the need for medications. Altering your sleeping patterns, exercising routines, nutrition and stress management practices can all help in lessening the severity of ADHD symptoms.