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ADHD Medications and Other Treatments ADHD can cause a broad spectrum of symptoms that can make it difficult for people to perform at a high level at school or work. Sometimes these problems are misdiagnosed. Adults suffering from adhd who don't take medication may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy in order to learn better ways of thinking about stress and how to handle it. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also be helpful. Medicines Many people are reluctant to take medication, however the right medication can make a huge difference. ADHD medicines boost brain chemicals that affect attention, concentration and impulse control. Suggested Looking at prescribe them in small doses initially and gradually increase the dosage until the ADHD symptoms diminish. Regular checkups are required for those taking ADHD medications to confirm whether they are effective and to check for any side effects. The most common medicine to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are taken by mouth and come in various forms, including tablets that can be chewed, swallowed or dissolved capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food and liquids that can be swallowed or mixed with water. These medicines are usually taken daily by the majority of people. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidates (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall) and amphetamines. Both stimulants are effective in stimulating specific parts of the brain in order to improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behavior. They are typically given to children who are older than 5, however, they are also available to teenagers and adults who have not responded to other treatments. There are other medications that treat ADHD. However, these are not as common in children due to the possibility of side consequences. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are antidepressants that can aid with ADHD. They do this by increasing brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine. They are usually only prescribed when other treatments fail however they have been linked to a number of deaths due to heart rhythm issues. The most well-known monoamine oxidese inhibitor is phenelzine, also known as Nardil. Venlafaxine, a newer version of this drug, has been proven to be effective in treating ADHD in some people however it's not as extensively studied. Psychological and psychiatric disorders can mimic the symptoms of ADHD in both children and adults. These include mood disorders (such as anxiety) and adjustment disorders and personality disorders. Antisocial personality disorder is a frequent personality disorder among adults suffering from ADHD. If a patient is suffering from comorbid ADHD and other psychiatric disorders, doctors try to treat the most severe symptoms of other disorders prior to attempting medications for ADHD. Alternative Treatments Many people suffering from ADHD do not find medications beneficial, and they may look for alternative treatments. These treatments are often referred to as alternative or complementary therapies. They involve eating certain food items, taking nutritional supplements and exercise, sleep training, meditation, yoga and brain-based therapies such as neurofeedback. These treatments are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment program. Altering your diet can be beneficial, as many people with 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 ADHD symptoms get worse or improve after eating certain foods it is important to talk with their doctor, who might suggest they see an dietitian. Some people suffering from ADHD feel better when they take certain supplements or vitamins. There's no evidence to prove that these supplements are effective. It's a good idea to consult your physician prior to trying any of these supplements, since they may interfere with certain medications. Regular exercise is beneficial to all, but it is especially beneficial for those with ADHD. Studies have shown that moderate to intense exercise can help the brain release chemicals that aid in controlling attention and behavior. It's most effective when you exercise outside and away from computers, televisions and video games. A behavioral therapy is a second option that doesn't require medication. It helps to teach new ways of being and is often best suited for children who are less than five. It can be helpful for older children and adults. It is often coupled with cognitive behavior therapy, which aims at changing negative thoughts and beliefs. A form of behavior called sensory integration training is designed to teach the brain to respond to sensory signals, such as sight and hearing. It's a relatively new treatment and more research is required. It's certainly worth a shot, especially when the person who suffers from ADHD has other mental health issues. Counseling Some people with ADHD get relief from depression and anxiety by seeking psychotherapy, which can be offered by qualified therapists or in an entire group. adhd adults medication for talking, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in managing your issues and deal with stress. CBT, for example, helps you change negative or unfounded thoughts such as “I always make mistakes” or “this won't work.” There are many other treatments for adhd that don't require medication. They include establishing healthy sleeping habits, addressing nutritional deficiency and exercising regularly. However, it is not recommended to try eliminating food items or supplements without seeking medical advice from your doctor. You can also get assistance through self-help and support groups. These groups can assist with a wide range of issues, such as managing anxiety, relationships, or low self-esteem. These services may be offered in person, over the phone or online. A lot of these services are free or are completely free. Behavioral therapy is an ideal option for children who have ADHD. It is also beneficial for adults and teens. 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. The therapist might teach you positive reinforcement as well as a reward systems. Your child and you can also learn from a therapist how to calm yourself down when you observe signs. This is especially helpful for parents who feel overwhelmed by the impulsive behaviours of their children. A therapist may also suggest teaching your child and you relaxation techniques, such as meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, and deep breathing. Teachers can also be trained in the field of behavioral therapy to help them better work with ADHD students. The therapist may instruct you to use “report cards” to inform teachers if your child is meeting their goals for behavior that day. They could then award the child a reward to encourage good behavior. These types of interventions have been proven to improve the functioning of children and adults with ADHD. Support Groups Adults with ADHD may find it difficult to understand their symptoms and behavior which can be a challenge. Support groups can help people with ADHD find understanding and encouragement by others who have similar experiences. They can also learn new strategies to cope and techniques to improve their lives. Some support groups are run by professionals, while others are led by peers. Some support groups provide educational materials, guest speakers and workshops. Additionally support groups can provide an environment in which participants can connect and collaborate with others to share their resources. Online support groups are an excellent alternative for those unable to attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example has an online forum that allows people to communicate and share advice. The site also has a list of professional ADHD coaches and other sources. People can also look for online ADHD support groups through their health insurance, or a website that offers mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for instance could offer counseling and therapy to people suffering from mental health issues, including ADHD. Family and friends are also excellent sources of social support. Let those closest to know that you have ADHD to give them more support and help with everyday tasks. An ADHD spouse can help with meal prep or cleaning. A close friend can be a great listener when you're feeling overwhelmed. If you're thinking of joining an ADHD support group, be sure you select a respected organization. Beware of social media forums sites that allow anyone to post. These forums may offer advice that is against medical guidelines or harmful. Ultimately, support groups should be utilized as part of a treatment plan that includes medication, therapy and skills training.