Treatment For ADHD Without Medication
Some people can use medication to manage the symptoms of ADHD however, they're not always necessary. Alternative treatments are also very effective.
These include cognitive behavioral therapies and lifestyle modifications. They are often combined with medications to treat children and adults. They are usually cheaper than stimulants. They may take longer than medication to take effect.
Medications
If your child has a mild case of ADHD, behavioral interventions and lifestyle modifications may be enough to reduce symptoms. For some medications can be an important part in treatment. Medications for ADHD help by boosting the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which enhance concentration and impulse control. They are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in adolescents and children. Like all medicines, they can cause side effects. Consult your physician about whether stimulants are appropriate for you or your child.
Short-acting stimulants, like methylphenidate (Ritalin) begin to work quickly and last from three to four hours. They are available as liquids, chewables or tablets. Intermediate stimulants, like amphetamines, take longer to perform but can last for six to eight hours. Long-acting stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) or Guanfacine (Concerta), have even longer-lasting effects lasting up to 16 hours.
Certain doctors may also prescribe Clonidine (Catapress) or Guanfacine (Redux) for very young children with extreme hyperactivity and impulsivity. A compounding pharmacy can transform these into liquids suitable for young children, or mix them with water to make them easier to take in. These medications raise blood pressure and are only prescribed for a brief time, usually a few weeks or months after symptoms begin to improve.
The use of stimulants can cause serious side effects, such as heart problems and addiction. Your doctor will start with a small dose and gradually increase it until symptoms are under control. Then, your doctor will switch you to a different medication or decrease the dosage.
If you or your child have trouble tolerating any of the medications that treat ADHD or ADD, your doctor could prescribe a type of antidepressant called selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors (SNRIs), such as Strattera or Qelbree. Contrary to stimulants, these medications don't boost dopamine but help improve concentration and impulse control.
Certain antidepressants from the past, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) can also treat ADHD with some benefit however, they come with serious side effects that can include seizures. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors which boost serotonin levels in the brain may be beneficial for certain ADHD adults. However, they're not as well studied as the SNRIs.
Treatments that are not medi-cation-based
There are a variety of options to treat ADHD apart from medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy is among the most effective treatments. It helps people learn to manage their symptoms using self-management techniques. Other treatments include diet modifications, exercise, and sleep improvements. Many adults find that using a combination of these strategies can decrease or eliminate the need for medication. It is crucial to speak with your doctor prior to trying any treatment for ADHD without medication. They will help you determine the best medication for your or your child's needs and monitor your response to ensure the medication is working correctly.
Stimulants can be an effective treatment for ADHD however, side effects such as a sudden decrease in appetite or sleep issues could occur. It is also possible that stimulants could result in dependence. These issues can deter some families from using these medications. Research has shown that the right dosage and timing can help reduce these side effects.
Your doctor may alter the dosage of medication you or your child is taking, as well as the frequency with which it is taken. For instance some patients may benefit from taking their medication in the morning and then supplementing it with an immediate-release dose when required. This can help avoid the "crash" effect that can happen when the first dose is finished.
Some people with ADHD notice that their symptoms get better when they stick to a routine. They might be more successful at school or work when they follow the same routine, and they are less likely to lose the keys or backpack when they keep them in the same spot each day. Some children with ADHD may benefit from keeping a daily diary. This can help them pinpoint the situations that trigger their symptoms.
Certain adults suffering from ADHD might be able to reduce their need for medication by finding an aid group and practicing relaxation techniques. They can also learn to control their emotions and collaborate with a therapist to deal with negative feelings that can make ADHD symptoms worse. most effective adhd medication for adults is important to locate a therapist who is skilled in helping people with ADHD and who understands the unique challenges associated with neurodiversity.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment that can improve symptoms and boost self-esteem in those suffering from ADHD. It involves teaching patients to recognize and modify negative habits of thinking that cause them problems. CBT therapists teach patients healthy methods and behavior. Through practicing these habits and thinking, you will be able to live a more productive and less stressed.
In addition to improving concentration, CBT can aid in regulating emotions. Many people suffering from ADHD have trouble controlling their emotions and negative thoughts which can result in a low self-esteem and poor mental health. They often have difficulty concentrating on their work, and they have difficulty completing tasks. Additionally, they might have trouble staying organized and may develop unrealistic expectations. These issues can cause significant anxiety and discontent if they are not addressed.
A recent study has found that group CBT alone or combined with medication can be more effective than just medication for adults with ADHD. The study included 88 adult participants who received CBT group therapy that was manualized by an instructor/therapist, or without medication (n=46), or with medication. They were also evaluated at three and six-month follow-up using unblinded self-reports and observer ratings. The results revealed that the CBT group and the CBT+medication groups both experienced greater improvements in their executive function compared to just the medication groups.
Cognitive behavior therapy can help adults learn new ways of thinking and interacting and has been proven to significantly reduce anxiety, depression, and ADHD main symptoms when compared with pharmacotherapy. It is an efficient and simple treatment option, but it requires a strong commitment from the patient in order to achieve good outcomes. It is also difficult to find a qualified therapist who is able to offer this kind of treatment.
Unlike other types of psychotherapy, CBT is focused on the immediate and is short-term. It is also goal-oriented and employs problem-focused strategies to decrease ADHD symptoms like impulsiveness and time management problems.
Furthermore, some studies suggest that CBT can be used to treat other ailments such as anxiety and depressive disorders. It is crucial to remember that the effectiveness CBT can vary from person-to-person. A trained mental health provider will assess the needs of each patient prior to prescribing this type therapy.
Lifestyle changes
There are a variety of treatment options for ADHD. Some people are able to manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes and talk therapy alone. Others require an array of medications and non-medical treatments to achieve the most effective results. The medications can improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors, but they don't treat the condition.
The first step in treating ADHD is to create an everyday routine. It can be as easy as establishing specific times to wake up, eating breakfast, going to work or school as well as engaging in leisure activities. A routine schedule can help you stay focused and on track as well as reduce stress and anxiety. It is also important to get enough rest to help manage your symptoms. Exercise is another method of treatment for ADHD without medication, since it helps you concentrate and reduces impulsive behavior. It is recommended to exercise for 30 minutes each day.
The inclusion of healthy food items in your diet will help improve your physical and mental health. Include vegetables, fruits and whole grains in your diet. Limit your intake of processed and sugary food items. In addition, eating fatty fish can provide omega-3 fatty acids to help improve your focus. Meditation and other techniques for relaxation will help you relax, and reduce your anxiety. Caffeine can also boost your concentration. However, too much caffeine can have negative side effects. Consider drinking green tea instead, which is rich in the amino acid L-theanine.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you identify negative thinking patterns that influence your behavior or feelings. CBT can, for instance can help you overcome your "all or nothing" thinking 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 create healthy coping strategies.
Other ADHD treatments include mindfulness exercises to help you accept your emotions and concentrate on the present moment. You can also practice self-compassion exercises, like giving yourself a positive and encouraging hug. You can also try EEG biofeedback that uses a computer to monitor brainwaves and teach you how to manage them.