Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD, is a behavioral disorder that affects the brain. Although there is currently no known cure for this disease, numerous options can help you manage and cope with the symptoms. ADHD is outstandingly common amongst children and often prevails to adulthood. The condition can vary in severity, but common symptoms include;
- Trouble multitasking
- Difficulty with focusing
- Restlessness
- Impulsive behaviors
Treatment for ADHD typically involves taking medication. However, a comprehensive approach also includes behavioral therapy to manage the symptoms best. To find the best option for the individual, experts recommend that healthcare providers, therapists, and family members work closely together to find the one that works best. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends behavioral therapy and medication for those aged six or older. The AAP recommends behavior therapy as the best treatment for younger children as opposed to medicine. The side effects of drugs can be more severe in younger children. Proper treatment to reduce the symptoms and more aptly control ADHD can lead to better performances at work or school and significantly improve the quality of life.
The types of ADHD treatments include:
1. Therapy and counseling.
Adults and children with ADHD may benefit from counseling. The common forms of counseling include:
● Behavioral Therapy
ADHD affects a child’s ability to pay attention or concentrate in school. It also affects the ability to form relationships with family and make friends with other children. The behaviors often portrayed by those with ADHD can be disruptive to others. Therapy is a treatment option that might remedy some of these behaviors. Therapy should start as soon as they make the diagnosis. Behavioral therapy aims to strengthen positive behaviors and remove or discourage negative behavior.
● Psychotherapy
This form of therapy involves consultations with a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist. It aims to identify ways to cope with ADHD-related symptoms. If you’re asking yourself ‘how do you know if you have adhd‘, psychotherapy can help you explore these concerns, identify symptoms, and develop coping strategies. It also helps you open up about your feelings of adjusting and coping with ADHD, and can be an essential tool in improving relationships and making positive choices. Additionally, it supports families in handling ADHD-related disruptive behaviors.
● Family Therapy
Family therapy is a type of therapy that involves parents and families of those affected by ADHD. It helps them manage the stresses and challenges of living with and taking care of an individual with ADHD.
● Social Skills Training
If the individual suffering from ADHD shows serious issues in coping with social environments, social skills training can be helpful. Social skills training helps in teaching new and appropriate behaviors. It helps the individual to associate better with others. The services of a qualified therapist may be helpful to the individual coping with ADHD to learn how to deal with the challenges that come with ADHD.
● Parenting Skills Training
Parenting skills may prove invaluable for parenting dealing with the pressures and challenges of raising a child diagnosed with ADHD. The training provides fundamental tools and techniques to understand and manage your child’s behavior. You will be better placed as a parent to handle your child.
● Support Groups
Support groups are vital and play an essential in helping those with ADHD connect better with others who may also share similar experiences and challenges. The regular meetings between the group members allow fostering of relationships and the building of support networks. It helps one to cope better and adjust to the diagnosis.
2. Medication
Medication can help individuals diagnosed with ADHD control the negative behaviors that arise from the disorder. It will help them better manage their behaviors and influence their relations with family and friends. You should, however, be cautious and work closely with your doctor on whether to use medication and the best type of medication to use if you decide to use them. Drugs can affect individuals differently and can have varying side effects. Health care providers may have to observe and adjust the medication doses to balance the side effects and benefits. One should therefore work in close consultation with medical experts.
The principal medication includes stimulants and non-stimulants.
● Stimulants
These are the most commonly prescribed ADHD drugs. They work by increasing the number of brain chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine. Stimulants improve concentration and help the individual focus better. Stimulants are available in immediate-release and extended-release forms, which could last up to 12 hours. They could be in the form of capsules, pills, or skin patches. However, these medications may cause possible side effects, including irritability, insomnia, or even psychiatric problems.
● Non-Stimulants
Health care experts may prescribe non-stimulant medication when stimulants have failed or the resulting side effects from the medication prove to be too severe for the individual to handle. The non-stimulant drug has fewer side effects than those associated with stimulants and can last up to 24 hours.
3. Alternative Therapies
It would be best if you consult with a doctor before you decide to attempt any alternative remedies for ADHD to make sure it is safe. Although there is subjective proof that alternative therapies may improve symptoms associated with ADHD, there is insufficient scientific evidence that backs the efficiency of these alternative remedies.
The alternative methods include:
● Diet Changes
You must consult your healthcare provider or medical expert before making any crucial alterations to your diet. However, reducing the sugar intake is part of a healthy diet and may help build positive behaviors and strengthen cognitive abilities in those with ADHD.
● Yoga
Yoga may be an essential tool in helping those with ADHD calm down and cultivate self-discipline. It can also be a vital tool to assist in building focus and concentration.
ADHD treatment may include several options, including medication or some form of therapy and behavioral measures. Receiving the proper form of treatment could be a life-changer for anyone dealing with or struggling to cope with ADHD. It could help the individual manage the symptoms and live a more fulfilled life and work through the challenges of living with ADHD.
