Omer Mascorro
Blog entry by Omer Mascorro
ADHD Medications and Other Treatments
ADHD can trigger a wide range of symptoms, which can cause people to be unable to be productive at school or at work. Sometimes, these issues are not properly diagnosed.
Adults with adhd who do not take medication can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to develop better ways of thinking about stress and how to handle it. A healthy diet and regular exercise help.
Medicines
Many people are hesitant to take medication, however the right medication can make all the difference. ADHD medications boost brain chemicals which affect attention, concentration, and impulse control. Doctors usually prescribe them in small doses initially and then gradually increase them until ADHD symptoms improve. Patients who take ADHD medicines have regular checkups to check whether the medication is working and to watch for side effects.
Stimulants are the most common treatment for ADHD. They are taken orally and are available in a variety of forms. They include tablets that can 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. These medicines are usually taken daily by the majority of people. The most common stimulants are methylphenidates (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall) and amphetamines. They both work by stimulating specific parts of the brain to increase concentration and reduce impulsive behavior. They are usually prescribed to children who are older than five, but they can also be given to teenagers as well as adults who haven't responded to other treatments.
There are various other medications that treat ADHD. However, these are less popular among children due to their potential negative side consequences. Monoamine oxide inhibitors are antidepressants that can help with ADHD by increasing the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and serotonin. They are usually only prescribed 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 inhibitor of oxidase is phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine, a newer version of this drug has also been proven to be effective in treating ADHD in some people but it's not as well-studied.
Psychological and psychiatric disorders may mimic the symptoms of ADHD in both children and adults. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and other personality disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder, which is seen in high numbers in adults suffering from ADHD (Mannuzza et al 1998). If a patient suffers from comorbid ADHD with other psychiatric disorders or symptoms such as anxiety, doctors will treat the most severe symptoms prior to they prescribe medication for ADHD.
Alternative Treatments
Many people suffering from ADHD are not able to find medication useful, and instead seek other treatment options. These treatments are often referred to as complementary or alternative medicine. They include eating certain foods as well as taking nutritional supplements, sleep training, exercise, meditation, yoga, and brain-based therapies like neurofeedback. These treatments are an excellent supplement to any ADHD treatment strategy.
Altering your diet can be beneficial, as many people with ADHD have reported that certain food items can aggravate their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts also recommend keeping a food journal to see if any particular food items trigger symptoms. If anyone notices that ADHD symptoms are getting worse or better after eating certain foods it is essential to speak with their doctor, who could recommend seeing an dietitian.
Some people suffering from ADHD find themselves feeling better when they take certain vitamins or supplements. There isn't much evidence to suggest that these supplements work. Before trying any of these supplements it's best adhd medication uk to consult your doctor in case they interfere with certain medications.
Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but it appears to be especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD. Studies show that moderate to intense exercise helps the brain release chemicals that help control the behavior and attention. It's particularly effective when it takes place outside away from televisions, computers and video games.
A behavioral therapy is another treatment that doesn't involve medication for inattentive adhd. It teaches new ways of behaving and is often best suited for children younger than five. It can be helpful for older children as well as adults. It's typically combined with cognitive behavioral therapy which is designed to change negative beliefs and thoughts that could be causing problems.
A type of behavior therapy known as sensory integration training attempts to teach the brain how to react to sensory messages such as hearing, sight and touch. This is a relatively young treatment and further research is needed. But, it's worth a shot, especially if the person with ADHD has other mental health issues.
Counseling
Some people with ADHD get relief from depression and anxiety through psychotherapy. It can be offered by qualified therapists or in an entire group. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you manage your problems and deal with 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 treatments for adhd no medication [Read the Full Write-up], such as establishing healthy sleep habits, fixing nutritional deficiencies, and engaging in regular exercise. However, it is not recommended to try eliminating certain foods or supplements without medical advice from your physician.
You can also find assistance through self-help and support groups. These groups can assist you overcome a range of problems, like managing relationships, anxiety or low self-esteem. These services are available in person via phone or online. A lot of these services cost nothing or are free.
Behavioral therapy is often the first option for children with ADHD however, it can be equally beneficial for adults and teenagers. In a behavioral therapy session both you and your child are guided by a qualified therapist to develop strategies that will lessen the symptoms of generic adhd medications and improve the performance of your family. The therapist might teach you positive reinforcement as well as a reward system.
A therapist may also help you and your child to recognize when symptoms are occurring and how to calm them down. This is particularly helpful for parents who feel overwhelmed by the impulsive behavior of their children. A therapist may also recommend that you and your child learn relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation deep breathing meditation, visualization, and visualization.
Teachers can also be trained in behavioral therapy to help them better deal with ADHD students. The therapist might instruct you to use "report cards" to let teachers know if your child has achieved their behavior goals during the day. The therapist will then reward him for his good behavior. These kinds of interventions have been proven to improve the daily functioning of both adults and children with ADHD.
Support Groups
Adults with adhd inattentive type medication often struggle to understand their behavior and symptoms, which can feel overwhelming. Support groups can help people with ADHD find understanding and encouragement by others who share similar experiences. They can also learn new strategies for coping and skills to improve their lives. Some support groups are led professionally and others are led by peers. Some offer workshops, educational materials and guest speakers. In addition, support groups can offer a place where members can meet and collaborate with others to share resources.
Online support groups are a great alternative for those who are unable to attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example offers an online forum that allows members to communicate and share advice. The site also has a list of professional ADHD coaches and other sources. You can also locate online ADHD support groups via your health insurance or websites that offer mental health services. For instance, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) at a variety of companies can cover counseling or therapy for people with mental health issues, including ADHD.
Other sources of social support include friends and family. Inform those closest to you that you have ADHD to allow them to offer additional support and assistance with everyday tasks. An ADHD spouse can assist in meal preparation or cleaning. A close friend can be a great listener if you are feeling overwhelmed.
Choose a reputable group when you're considering joining an ADHD support group. Beware of social media forums and sites that allow anyone to post. The advice provided in these places can conflict with medical guidelines and may be harmful or inaccurate. In the end, support groups should be considered as part of a treatment plan which includes therapy, medication and training in skills.