9 Things Your Parents Taught You About ADHD No Medication
ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
ADHD can trigger a wide spectrum of symptoms that can cause people to be unable to be productive at school or work. These problems can be misdiagnosed.
Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can aid people suffering from adhd without medication develop more effective ways of thinking and responding to stress. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help.
Medicines
Many people are hesitant to take medication, but the right medication can make a huge difference. ADHD medication boosts brain chemicals that affect attention, concentration, and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them in small doses, and then increase them gradually until the ADHD symptoms are improved. Patients who take ADHD medications are regularly checked to determine whether the medication is effective and to monitor for any side effects.
Stimulants are the most common treatments for ADHD. They are taken orally and come in various forms, such as tablets that can be swallowed, chewed or dissolved capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food and liquids that can be ingested or mixed with water. These medications are typically taken once daily by most people. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). They both work by stimulating specific parts of the brain to increase concentration and reduce impulsive behavior. They are usually given to children who are older than 5 years old, but they are also available to adults and teenagers who haven't responded to other treatments.
Other kinds of medicines are also used to treat ADHD however they are less frequently used by children because they may have adverse or dangerous side effects. Monoamine oxidase inhibiters are antidepressants which can help those suffering from ADHD. They accomplish this by increasing the levels of brain chemicals such as norepinephrine, and serotonin. They are generally only used if other treatments don't work however, they have been linked to a number of deaths caused by heart rhythm issues. The most commonly used monoamine oxidese inhibitor is called phenelzine, also called Nardil. Venlafaxine is a more recent version of this medication that has been found to treat adhd inattentive type medication in some patients, but it has not been studied as extensively.
Adults and children alike can suffer from symptoms similar to ADHD. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders and a few personality disorders, including antisocial personality disorder, which is found at a high rate in adult patients with ADHD (Mannuzza and co., 1998). If a patient is suffering from multiple disorders, such as ADHD and other mental disorders, doctors seek to treat the most severe symptoms of other disorders before attempting medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people with ADHD discover that their medications used to treat adhd are not effective and look for alternative treatment options. These treatments are considered alternative or complementary medicine. This includes certain nutritional supplements, foods and exercise, sleep training as well as yoga, meditation and brain-based treatments like neurofeedback. These treatments are an excellent supplement to any ADHD treatment plan.
Changing diet can be helpful for people suffering from ADHD find that certain foods worsen their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts also recommend keeping a food journal to determine if certain food items trigger symptoms. If someone notices that ADHD symptoms improve or worsen after eating certain foods, it is important to talk with their doctor who may recommend seeing an dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD notice that they feel better after they take certain supplements or vitamins. However there's a lack of evidence to suggest that these supplements really work. Before attempting any of these supplements it's best to consult your doctor because they could interact with certain medicines.
Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but particularly for people with ADHD. Research has shown that moderate intensity exercise helps the brain release chemicals that to regulate attention and behavior. It is most effective to exercise outdoors, away from televisions, computers and video games.
Another treatment that's not a medication is a behavioral therapy. This teaches new ways of behaving and is often best suited for children under five. It can be helpful for older children and adults. It's typically combined with cognitive behavioral therapy, which aims to alter negative thoughts and beliefs that could be the cause of the issues.
A form of therapy for behavior called sensory integration training is designed to teach the brain to respond to sensory signals such as seeing, hearing and touching. This is a relatively young treatment and more research is needed. It's worth trying, especially when a person suffering from ADHD suffers from mental health issues.
Counseling
Certain people with ADHD can find relief from anxiety and depression through psychotherapy, which is offered by trained therapists or as groups. Talking therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in managing your issues and manage stress. CBT for instance helps you overcome negative or irrational thoughts such as "I always mess it up" or "this isn't working."
In addition to counseling, there are other options for treating adhd that do not require medication, including establishing healthy sleeping habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and completing regular exercise. It is recommended to consult with your doctor before trying to eliminate any food items or supplements.
You can a doctor prescribe adhd medication also get help from self-help groups and support groups. These can help you overcome a range of issues, including managing adhd without medication adults relationships, anxiety or low self-esteem. These services can be provided in person over the phone, in person or online. A majority of these services are free or cost a small amount.
Behavioral therapy is an ideal option for children with ADHD. It can also be beneficial for teens and adults. In a behavioral therapy session, a trained therapist helps you and your child develop strategies to reduce symptoms of ADHD and improve the functioning of the family. The therapist can instruct you on positive reinforcement and a reward system.
Your child and you can also learn from a therapist to calm yourself down when you observe signs. This is particularly helpful for parents who may feel overwhelmed by their child's impulsive behavior. A therapist may also suggest instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, like meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, visualization and deep breathing.
Behavioral therapy can also include training for teachers to make it easier for them to deal with students who suffer from ADHD. The therapist may instruct you to use "report cards" to inform teachers if your child is meeting the behavior goals they set for that day. The therapist will then reward the child for good behavior. Research shows that these types of interventions can dramatically increase the capacity of children and adults suffering from ADHD to function in their everyday lives.
Support Groups
Adults who suffer from ADHD often struggle to understand their symptoms and behaviors that can be overwhelming. Support groups can help adults with adhd no medication gain understanding and encouragement by others who prescribes adhd medication have similar experiences. They can also learn new coping skills and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are run professionally, while others are peer-led. Some groups offer educational materials, guest speakers and workshops. Additionally, support groups can offer a place in which participants can connect and collaborate with others to share their resources.
Online support groups are a good alternative for those not able to attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example has an online forum that allows members to interact and exchange advice. The site also has a list of 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. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), for example could cover therapy and counseling for people with mental health issues like ADHD.
Other sources of support from social networks include friends and family. Inform those closest to you that you have ADHD to give them more assistance and support with everyday tasks. An ADHD spouse can assist in meal preparation or cleaning. A close friend can be a great listener when you are feeling overwhelmed.
If you're thinking about joining an ADHD support group, make sure to choose a well-respected organization. Be wary of social media platforms that allow anyone to post. These forums may offer advice that is against medical guidelines, or even harmful. Ultimately, support groups should be considered as part of a treatment program which includes therapy, medication and training in skills.