Treatment For ADHD Without Medication
Certain medications can help people manage the symptoms of ADHD however, they're not always necessary. Alternative treatments can be very effective.
These include cognitive behavioral therapies as well as lifestyle modifications. These are often combined with medications for treating children and adults. They are usually cheaper than stimulants. They may take longer to work.
Medications
If your child or teen is suffering from mild ADHD behavior interventions and lifestyle changes could be enough to reduce symptoms. For some people medications can play a crucial role in treatment. Treatments for ADHD are effective by increasing the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine which enhance attention and impulse control. They are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in adolescents and children. Like all medications, they have adverse effects. Discuss with your doctor whether stimulants are appropriate for you or your child.
Short-acting stimulants, such as methylphenidate also called Ritalin begin to work quickly and last between three and four hours. They are available as chewables, liquids, or tablets. Amphetamines are intermediate stimulants that take longer to work but can last up to eight hours. Long-acting stimulants, such as atomoxetine or guanfacine, (Concerta), can have effects lasting as long as 16 hours.
Some doctors may also use Clonidine (Catapress) or guanfacine (Redux) for very young children with extreme hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs can be converted into liquids for young children through an compounding pharmacy, or mixed with water to make them easier to swallow. These drugs can raise blood pressure and are therefore only prescribed for a limited time, usually for a few weeks or even months after symptoms start to improve.
Drugs can cause serious side effects, including heart problems and addiction. Your doctor will start with a low dose and gradually increase it until symptoms are under control. Your doctor might then refer you to another medication or reduce the dosage.
If you or your child has difficulties absorbing drugs that treat ADHD, your doctor may prescribe a type of antidepressant known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as Strattera or Qelbree. Unlike the stimulants, these medicines don't increase dopamine, but instead help improve concentration and control of impulses.
Some older antidepressants like phenelzine and tranylcypromine, can be used to treat ADHD. However they can cause serious side effects including seizures. Monoamine oxide inhibitors which boost serotonin levels in the brain, could be beneficial for some ADHD adults. These are not as well-studied as SNRIs.
Non-medicinal treatments
There are many options to treat ADHD in addition to medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most effective treatments. It teaches people how to manage their symptoms by employing self-management techniques. Exercise, diet modifications, sleep improvements, and other treatments are available. Many adults find that using combinations of these treatments can decrease or eliminate the need for medication. It is essential to talk to your doctor prior to trying any treatment for ADHD without medication. They can assist you in choosing the right medication to manage your symptoms or the child's and will monitor your response to the drug to make sure that it is working.
Stimulants can be the most effective treatment of ADHD, but side effects like an abrupt decrease in appetite or sleep issues are possible. It is possible that stimulants can cause dependence. These factors can discourage certain families from taking these medications. However, research has shown that the proper dosage and timing can reduce these adverse effects.
Your healthcare provider can alter the dosage of medication you or your child takes and the frequency it is taken. For instance, some patients prefer taking the medication in the morning, and then supplementing it with an immediate release dose when required. This can help avoid the "crash effect" that can occur when the first dose is exhausted.
Some people with ADHD notice that their symptoms improve significantly when they follow the same routine. If they follow a routine, they will be more productive at school or at work. They will also be less likely to misplace their backpacks or keys when they do it every day. Some children with ADHD may benefit from keeping a diary. This helps them recognize the triggers that cause their symptoms.
Some adults with ADHD might be able to reduce their medication needs by forming a support group and practicing relaxation techniques. They can also learn to control their emotions and work with a therapist to deal with negative emotions that can make ADHD symptoms worse. It is essential to find a therapist who specializes in helping people with ADHD and is aware of the unique challenges that come with neurodiversity.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a successful treatment that can reduce symptoms and boost self-esteem for patients with ADHD. adhd treatment medication helps patients to identify and correct negative thoughts that are causing difficulties in their lives. CBT therapists teach patients healthy techniques and behaviors. Practicing these behaviors and thoughts will allow you to lead a more fulfilling life with less stress.
In addition to improving concentration, CBT can assist in emotional regulation. Many people suffering from ADHD have trouble controlling their emotions and negative thoughts, which can lead to lower self-esteem and deterioration in mental health. They often have difficulty concentrating on their work, and they find it difficult to complete tasks. They may also have trouble staying organized and create unrealistic expectations. These issues can cause severe stress and anger if left untreated.
A recent study showed that group CBT alone or when combined with medication could be more effective than medication for adults with ADHD. The study involved adults who were enrolled in CBT group therapy in a manual manner with an instructor/therapist, either without medication (n=46) or with medication. The participants were evaluated at the 3 and 6-month follow-ups with unblinded reports and ratings by observers. The results showed that both the CBT and CBT+medication group saw a greater improvement in their executive function than the medication group did.
Cognitive behavior therapy can help adults to develop new ways of thinking and interacting and has been shown to significantly lower depression, anxiety, and ADHD primary symptoms when compared to medication. It's a quick and simple treatment option. However, it requires a patient's strong commitment to achieve positive outcomes. It is also difficult to find a qualified therapist who can provide this kind of treatment.
CBT unlike other types of psychotherapy is short-term and is focused on the present. It is also goal oriented and utilizes techniques that focus on problems to help reduce ADHD symptoms such as impulsivity and problems with time management.
Additionally, some research suggests that CBT can be utilized to treat other conditions, such as depression and anxiety. However, it is important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of CBT for other conditions may differ from individual to individual, and a professional mental health provider should assess the individual's needs prior to prescribing this kind of therapy.
Lifestyle changes
There are a myriad of treatments available for ADHD. Some people can manage their symptoms with lifestyle changes and talking therapy on their own. Others need to use an array of medications and non-medication therapies to get the most effective results. The medications can improve the ability to focus and reduce impulsive behavior however they aren't able to treat the condition.
The first step to treating ADHD is creating a daily schedule. This could be as simple as establishing specific time for waking up, eating meals and going to school or work or engaging in leisure activities. A routine schedule can help you stay focused and on track and also reduce anxiety and stress. Also, you should take a good night's sleep to manage your symptoms. Exercise is a great method to combat ADHD without medication. It helps you focus, and reduces impulsive behaviors. Aim for about 30 minutes of exercise per day.
Adding healthy foods to your diet can enhance the way you think and behave. Include vegetables, fruits and whole grains into your diet. Reduce your consumption of processed and sweet food items. Consuming fatty fish can aid in improving your concentration by providing omega-3 fatty acids. The incorporation of meditation and other relaxation methods can help you relax and decrease your anxiety levels. Caffeine may also boost your concentration, however it is important to avoid excessive amounts of caffeine or it can cause negative side effects. Try drinking green tea instead, which is rich in the amino acid l-theanine.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you identify negative patterns of thinking that influence your feelings and actions. CBT, for example, can help you change your "all or none" mentality in which you believe that you are either successful or a total failure. It can also boost your self-esteem as well as help you develop healthy strategies for coping.
Other ADHD treatments include mindfulness exercises to help you to accept your feelings and be present in the moment. You can also do self-compassion exercises like giving yourself an encouraging hug that is positive and encouraging. You can also use EEG biofeedback that uses computers to monitor brainwaves and help you how to manage them.