Treatment For ADHD Without Medication
Certain medications can help people manage the symptoms of ADHD However, they are not always necessary. Alternative treatments are also very efficient.
They include cognitive behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes. These are often combined with medication to treat children and adults. They are generally less expensive than stimulants. However, they may take longer to effect than drugs.
Medications
If your child suffers from a mild form of ADHD, lifestyle changes and behavioral treatments might be enough to alleviate symptoms. But for some people medications are also an important part of treatment. The medications for ADHD boost brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which boost concentration and impulse control. These medications are the most commonly used treatments for ADHD in adolescents and children. Like all medications, they have negative side effects. Ask your doctor if stimulants are right to use for you or your child.
Short-acting stimulants such as methylphenidate, also called Ritalin begin to work fast and last between three and four hours. They can be liquids, tablets or chewables. Amphetamines are intermediate stimulants which take longer to kick in but last up to eight hours. Long-acting stimulants, such as Guanfacine or atomoxetine, (Concerta) are able to produce effects lasting up to 16 hours.
Some doctors may prescribe clonidine or guanfacine for very young children who have severe hyperactivity or an excessive impulsivity. These drugs can be converted into a liquid for very young children using a compounding pharmacy or mixed with water to make them easier to swallow. These medications raise blood pressure, and are only prescribed for a short duration, usually just several weeks or months after symptoms begin to improve.
Stimulants can have serious side effects, such as heart problems and addiction. Your doctor will begin with a small dose and gradually increase it until your symptoms are under control. Then, your doctor will switch you to a different medication, or reduce the dosage.
If you or your child have difficulty tolerating the ADHD drugs the doctor might recommend a specific antidepressant known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs) like Strattera or Qelbree. Contrary to stimulants, these drugs don't increase dopamine, but instead help improve concentration and impulse control.
Certain antidepressants from the past, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) can also treat ADHD with some benefits however they can cause serious side effects that can include seizures. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which increase the brain chemical serotonin levels, may be beneficial for certain ADHD adults. They aren't as well-studied as SNRIs.
Non-medicinal treatments
There are many options to treat ADHD besides medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy is among the most effective treatments. It helps people learn to manage their symptoms by using self-management strategies. Other treatments include exercise, diet changes and improvements in sleep. Many adults find that combinations of these treatments may reduce or eliminate the need for medication. Before you attempt to treat ADHD without medication, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider. best medication for adhd will work with you to determine the best medication for you or your child's symptoms and will monitor your reactions to make sure the drug is working as intended.
Stimulants are the most effective treatment of ADHD however, adverse effects like an abrupt decrease in appetite or sleep problems could occur. It is also possible that stimulants could cause dependence. These factors can discourage some families from using these medications. However, research shows that the right dosage and timing can reduce these side effects.
Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage of medicine you or your child is taking as well as the frequency it is taken. Certain patients may benefit from taking their medication in the morning and adding an immediate-release dose taken as needed. This can help avoid the "crash effect" that can occur when the first dose wears out.
Some people suffering from ADHD notice that their symptoms improve when they adhere to a routine. If they adhere to a regular routine, they may be more successful at work or school. They will also be less likely to lose their backpacks or keys when they are doing it every day. Additionally, children with ADHD might benefit by keeping a diary for their daily activities which allows them to identify what triggers their symptoms.
Some adults with ADHD may be able to reduce their medication needs by finding a support group and practicing relaxation techniques. They can also learn to control their emotions and engage with a therapist in order to deal with negative emotions that can cause ADHD symptoms worse. It is essential to choose an therapist who is specialized in helping those with ADHD and who is aware of the unique challenges that arise with neurodiversity.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment that can improve symptoms and boost self-esteem in people with ADHD. It teaches patients to identify and correct negative thinking patterns that cause problems in their lives. Therapists in CBT teach patients healthy ways to conduct themselves and develop positive behaviors. By practicing these habits and thoughts, you will make it easier to live a more productive and fulfilling life with less stress.
In addition to enhancing concentration, CBT can assist in emotional regulation. Many people with ADHD are prone to uncontrollable thoughts and emotions that can cause lower self-esteem and deterioration in mental health. They may have trouble focusing on their work and find it difficult to complete tasks. Additionally, they might have trouble staying organized and may have unrealistic expectations. These issues can cause severe stress and anger when left untreated.
A recent study has found that CBT group therapy in conjunction with medication or alone can be more effective for adults suffering from ADHD than medication alone. The study involved 88 adults who participated in group CBT that was manualized with a coach or therapist either without (n=46) or with medication (n=42). They were also evaluated at the end of a 3- and 6-month follow-up using self-reports that were not blinded and the ratings of observers. The results showed that both the CBT and CBT+medication groups had a higher improvement in their executive functioning than the medication group did.
Cognitive behavior therapy assists adults develop new ways of thinking and behaving in a way that has been proven to significantly lower depression, anxiety, and ADHD core symptoms compared to pharmacotherapy. It is an efficient and easy treatment option, however, it requires a firm commitment by the patient to attain good outcomes. In addition, it can be challenging to find a professional to offer this treatment.
Unlike other types of psychotherapy, CBT is focused on the present moment and is short-term. It is also goal-oriented and uses techniques that are focused on the problem to decrease ADHD symptoms like impulsivity and time management issues, and temper outbursts.
Some research has shown that CBT is effective in treating other conditions such as depression disorders and anxiety disorders. It is important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of CBT may vary from person-to-person. A qualified mental health professional will evaluate the individual's needs before prescribing this type of therapy.
Lifestyle changes
There are a myriad of treatments available for ADHD. Some people combat their symptoms by altering their lifestyle and talking therapy. Others need to use a combination of medication and non-medication therapies to get the most effective results. The medication can boost concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors but they can't cure the condition.
The first step in treating ADHD is to create an everyday routine. It's as easy to establish certain times for waking eating, going to school or work as well as engaging in leisure activity. A schedule that is consistent will help you concentrate and remain focused, as well as help reduce stress and anxiety. Also, you should take a good night's sleep to manage your symptoms. Exercise is another method of treatment for ADHD without medication, since it improves your focus and decreases impulsive behavior. Try to do 30 minutes of exercise per day.
Incorporating healthy foods into your diet can enhance the way you think and act. Try to include vegetables, fruits and whole grains as well as lean protein. Limit your intake processed and sweet foods. Additionally, eating fatty fish can provide omega-3 fatty acids to aid in improving your focus. Meditation and other techniques for relaxation can help you relax and ease anxiety. Caffeine can also increase your concentration, however it is essential to avoid large quantities of caffeine, or it could cause adverse side effects. Green tea is a good alternative, since it's a source of the amino acid Ltheanine.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you identify negative thinking patterns that impact your thoughts or actions. CBT can, for instance can help you overcome your "all or nothing" mentality in which you believe that you are either an absolute success or a total failure. It can also increase your self-esteem and help you develop healthy coping techniques.
Other treatments that can help with ADHD include mindfulness exercises which can help you focus on the present moment and develop the ability to accept your feelings. You can also engage in self-compassion exercises like giving yourself a uplifting hug that is positive and encouraging. You can also try EEG biofeedback, which makes use of a computer to monitor brainwaves and help you how to manage them.