9 . What Your Parents Taught You About ADHD No Medication
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ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
People with ADHD often suffer from a variety of symptoms that make it difficult to succeed at work or in school. Sometimes, these issues are not properly diagnosed.
Adults suffering from 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 respond. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also help.
Medicines
Many people are reluctant to take medicine, but the correct medication can make a big difference. ADHD medication boosts brain chemicals that affect concentration, attention and impulse control. Doctors usually prescribe them in small doses at first and then gradually increase them until the ADHD symptoms are reduced. Patients taking ADHD medication are required to have regular checkups to check whether the medication is working and to watch for side effects.
The most common medicine for treating ADHD is stimulants. They are taken orally and are available in a variety of forms. These include tablets that can be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolving; capsules that may be opened and sprinkled on food items; and liquids that can be mixed with water or ingested. The majority of people use these drugs once a day. The most popular stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). Both stimulants are effective in stimulating specific parts of the brain to improve concentration and reduce impulse-driven behavior. They are typically given to children older than 5, but they are also available to teenagers and adults who haven't responded to other treatments.
There are various other medications that treat ADHD. However, they are less common in children due to their potential adverse consequences. Monoamine Oxase inhibitors are antidepressants which aid in treating ADHD by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and serotonin. They are typically only used when other treatments don't work however, they have been linked to a variety of deaths caused by heart rhythm problems. The most common monoamine oxidese inhibitor is called Phenelzine, which is also called Nardil. Venlafaxine is a newer version of this drug that has been shown to treat ADHD in a small number of patients, but it has not been researched as thoroughly.
Children and adults alike can suffer from symptoms similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders and some personality disorders, including antisocial personality disorder, which is observed in high numbers in adult patients with ADHD (Mannuzza and co., 1998). If a patient is suffering from co-occurring ADHD with other psychiatric disorders and symptoms such as anxiety, doctors will treat the most severe symptoms before they prescribe medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people suffering from ADHD are not able to find medication useful, and instead seek alternative treatments. These treatments are referred to as complementary or alternative medicine. They involve eating certain food items supplementing nutritional intake, sleep training, exercise, meditation, yoga, and brain-based therapies like neurofeedback. These treatments are a great addition 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 recommend keeping a food diary to determine if specific foods cause symptoms. If anyone notices that ADHD symptoms improve or worsen after eating certain foods, it is crucial to talk to their doctor, who could suggest they see a dietitian.
Some people with ADHD find themselves feeling better after taking certain supplements or vitamins. However, there's not a lot of evidence that these things actually work. Before you try any of these supplements, it's best to consult your physician because they could interact with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is good for everyone, but it seems to be especially beneficial for people with ADHD. Studies have shown that moderate to intense exercise can help the brain release chemicals that help control attention and behaviour. It's most effective if you exercise outside, away from computers, televisions and video games.
A behavioral therapy is another treatment that doesn't require medication. This treatment teaches children how to behave in a new way and is best suited for children younger than five years old. It can also be beneficial for older children and adults. It is usually paired with cognitive behavior therapy, which is designed to change negative thoughts and beliefs that may be causing the issues.
A type of therapy for behavior called sensory integration training tries to teach the brain how to react to sensory messages like seeing, hearing and touching. It's a relatively new treatment, and more research is needed. But, it's worth a try, especially in cases where the person suffering from ADHD has mental health issues.
Counseling
Psychotherapy can help patients with ADHD overcome depression and anxiety. It can be provided by qualified therapists, or in a group. Therapy that involves talking, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), can help you learn to manage your issues and manage stress. CBT for instance can help you overcome negative or unfounded thoughts such as "I always fail" or "this isn't working."
There are a variety of other treatments for adhd that do not involve medication. They include establishing healthy sleeping habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies and exercising regularly. But, you shouldn't attempt to eliminate certain foods or supplements without medical advice from your physician.
You can also get assistance from self-help groups and support groups. These can help you with a variety of problems, like managing relationships, anxiety or low self-esteem. These can be provided in person, on the internet or over the phone. Many of these services cost nothing or are free.
Behavioral therapy is a good option for children with ADHD. It is also beneficial for teens and adults. In a behavioral therapy session, a trained therapist can help you and your child to develop strategies to reduce symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of the family. For instance, a therapy therapist could teach you how to utilize positive reinforcement and reward systems.
A therapist can also teach you and your child to recognize when signs are present and how to calm them down. This is particularly helpful for parents who feel overwhelmed types of adhd medication by the impulsive behaviors of their children. A therapist may also suggest instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization and deep breathing.
Behavioral therapy may also include training for teachers to help them to assist students with ADHD. For instance, a therapist might instruct you in using "report cards" to notify teachers when your child has met the behavior goals set by him or her at school the day. The therapist can then reward him for his good behavior. These kinds of interventions have been proven to improve the daily functioning of adults and children with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to comprehend their symptoms and behavior which can be a challenge. Support groups can help them find empathy 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 groups provide educational materials as well as guest speakers and workshops. Support groups can also be a source of the opportunity for members to meet with other members and collaborate to share resources.
Online support groups are a good alternative for those who cannot attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example offers an online forum that allows users to interact and exchange advice. The site also offers a list of professionals ADHD coaches and other resources. You can also find online ADHD support groups via your health insurance plan or sites that offer mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), for example could provide counseling and therapy for people suffering from mental health issues, including ADHD.
Friends and family members are excellent sources of social support. It's crucial to let the people closest to you be aware that you suffer from ADHD, so they can be more supportive and help with your daily tasks. For instance, an ADHD spouse could assist with cooking or cleaning, whereas a close friend could be an excellent listener when overwhelmed.
Select a reputable organization when you're considering joining an ADHD support group. Beware of forums on social media sites that allow anyone to post. These forums can give advice that is not in line with medical guidelines, or even harmful. Support groups should be used as part of a treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, and skills training.