A Provocative Rant About ADHD No Medication
ADHD Medications and Other Treatments ADHD can cause a broad variety of symptoms that can make it difficult for people to perform well at work or school. These problems are often mistakenly diagnosed. 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. The effects of medication Many people don't want to think about taking medication but the right medicine can make a big difference. ADHD medication boosts brain chemicals that affect concentration, attention and impulse control. Doctors typically prescribe them in small doses initially and gradually increase the dosage until the ADHD symptoms are reduced. People who take ADHD medicines have regular checkups to see if the medication is working and to be aware of any adverse effects. The most popular medication for treating ADHD is stimulants. They are taken orally and are available in a variety of forms. These include tablets that may be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolvable into capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food items; and liquids that can be mixed with water or ingested. These medications are typically taken once daily by most people. The most frequently used stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). Both stimulants work by stimulating certain areas of the brain to improve concentration and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. They are usually given to children older than 5 years old, but they can also be given to adults and teenagers who have not been able to respond to other treatments. There are other drugs that treat ADHD. However, these are less popular among children due to their potential adverse effects. Monoamine oxidase inhibiters are antidepressants that can aid those suffering from ADHD. They do this by increasing brain chemicals such as norepinephrine, and serotonin. They are generally only used when other treatments don't work however, they have been linked to a variety of deaths caused by heart rhythm issues. The most common monoamine oxidase inhibitor is Phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a newer version of this drug, has also been shown to be effective at treating ADHD in a few people, however it's not as extensively studied. Psychological and psychiatric conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD in both adults and children. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders and some personality disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder, which is seen in high numbers in adult patients with ADHD (Mannuzza et al 1998). If a patient is suffering from co-occurring ADHD with other psychiatric disorders and symptoms that are not treated, doctors will first address the most severe symptoms prior to they prescribe medication for ADHD. Alternative Treatments Many people with ADHD discover that their medications are not effective and may look for other options for treatment. These treatments are often referred to as alternative or complementary therapies. They include certain nutritional supplements, foods and exercise, sleep training as well as yoga, meditation and brain-based treatments such as neurofeedback. These treatments are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment program. Changing diet can be helpful for people suffering from ADHD report that some foods can cause symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts recommend keeping a food diary to determine if certain food items trigger symptoms. If you notice that their ADHD symptoms improve or become worse following eating certain foods, it's important to discuss this with a physician, who may suggest seeing a dietitian. Some people suffering from ADHD notice that they feel more relaxed when they take certain supplements or vitamins. There's not much evidence that these supplements are effective. Before trying any of these supplements it's best to consult your doctor, as they may interfere with certain medications. Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but especially for people with ADHD. Studies have shown that moderate intensity exercise can help the brain release chemicals that help manage the behavior and attention. It's most effective if you exercise outdoors, away from televisions, computers, and video games. A behavioral therapy is a different option that doesn't require medication. This helps to teach new ways of being and is often best suited for children who are less than five. It can also be beneficial for older children and adults. It's typically combined with cognitive behavior therapy, which aims to change negative thoughts and beliefs that may be causing the problems. A type of therapy for behavior called sensory integration training attempts to teach the brain how to react to sensory messages, such as seeing, hearing and touching. This is a relatively new approach and more research is needed. It's certainly worth a shot, especially in cases where the person suffering from ADHD is suffering from other mental health issues. Counseling Psychotherapy can help people with ADHD overcome anxiety and depression. It can be provided by trained therapists or in a group. Therapy for talking, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in managing your issues and cope with stress. CBT for instance, helps you change negative or unfounded thoughts such as “I always make mistakes” or “this won't work.” In addition to counseling, there are alternatives to treating adhd without medication, including creating healthy sleep habits, fixing nutritional deficiencies, and completing regular exercise. But, you shouldn't attempt to cut out certain foods or supplements without the advice of your doctor. You can also get help from self-help groups and support groups. These groups can aid with a wide range of issues, including managing relationships, anxiety or low self-esteem. These services are available in person over the phone, in person or online. A majority of these services cost nothing or are completely free. Behavioral therapy is usually the first choice for children with ADHD however, it can be also helpful for adults and teenagers. In behavioral therapy the child and you are guided by a qualified counselor to devise strategies to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve the performance of your family. For add in adults medication , the counselor might show you to use positive reinforcement and reward systems. A therapist can also teach your child and you to recognize when signs are present and how to calm. This is especially helpful for parents who feel overwhelmed by the impulsive behaviours of their children. A therapist might also recommend teaching you and your child 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 work with students who have ADHD. For example, the counselor might suggest using “report cards” to notify teachers when your child has met the behavior goals set by him or her at school that day. The therapist will then reward the child for good behavior. Research shows that these types of programs can greatly improve the ability of both children and adults suffering from ADHD to perform in their daily lives. Support Groups Adults suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to understand their symptoms and behaviors, which can be overwhelming. Support groups can help them gain understanding and encouragement from others who have experienced similar issues. They can also learn new strategies to cope and improve their lives. Some support groups are led by professionals, whereas others are facilitated by peer. Some offer educational materials, workshops and guest speakers. In addition, support groups can provide a space in which participants can connect and collaborate with other members to share resources. Online support groups can be an ideal option 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 an index of professionals ADHD coaches and other sources. People can also look for online ADHD support groups through their health insurance plan or a website that offers mental health services. For instance, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) at a variety of companies may cover counseling or therapy for people who suffer from mental health issues including ADHD. Other sources of social support include friends and family. Let those closest to know that you have ADHD to give them additional support and assistance with everyday tasks. For instance, an ADHD spouse could help with meal preparation or cleaning, and your close friend can be an excellent listener when you're overwhelmed. Choose a reputable group if you're thinking about joining an ADHD support group. Be wary of social media platforms that allow anyone to post. The advice offered in these forums may not be consistent with medical guidelines and could be harmful or incorrect. Support groups should be part of a complete treatment plan that includes therapy, medication, and skill training.