Treatment For ADHD Without Medication
Certain medications can help people manage the symptoms of ADHD, but they're not always necessary. Alternative treatments can also be efficient.
These include cognitive behavioral therapies and lifestyle changes. They are often paired with medications to treat children and adults. They are generally less expensive than stimulants. However, they may take longer to take effect than other medications.
Medicines
If your child or teenager is suffering from mild ADHD, behavioral interventions and lifestyle changes may be enough to improve symptoms. For some medications can be an important part in treatment. The drugs used to treat ADHD increase the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine, which improves attention and impulse control. They are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in adolescents and children. But like all medications, they can cause adverse effects. Ask your doctor whether stimulants are safe to use for you or your child.
Short-acting stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin) start to work quickly and last about three to four hours. They are available in tablets, chewables, or liquids. Intermediate stimulants, like amphetamines take longer to work, but they 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.
Some doctors might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine for very young children with severe hyperactivity or an excessive impulsivity. These can be changed into liquids for young children through a compounding pharmacy or mixed with water to make them easier to swallow. These medications can raise blood pressure, and they are usually only used for a few months or less when the person's symptoms begin to improve.
The use of stimulants can cause 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 either switch you to a different medication or reduce the dose.
If you or your child have difficulties absorbing medications that treat ADHD your doctor might prescribe a type of antidepressant called selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors (SNRIs) like Strattera or Qelbree. Contrary to stimulants, these medicines don't boost dopamine but aid in improving concentration and control over impulses.
Certain antidepressants that are older like phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) can also treat ADHD with some benefits, but they carry serious side effects that can include seizures. Monoamine oxidese inhibitors, which increase the levels of the brain chemical serotonin, may also be beneficial to some adults with ADHD. They aren't as well-studied as SNRIs.
Non-medicated treatments
In addition to medications, a variety of other options are available to treat ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most effective treatments. It helps people learn to manage their symptoms by using 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. Before attempting to treat ADHD without medication, it's important to consult with your doctor. They will help you choose the best medication to alleviate your symptoms or the child's and monitor your response to the drug to make sure that it is working.
Stimulants can be the most effective treatment for ADHD, but side effects like an abrupt drop in appetite or sleep issues are possible. most effective adhd medication for adults is also possible that stimulants could result in dependence. These factors can sometimes discourage families from using these medications. Research has shown that the right dosage and timing can reduce the adverse effects.
In addition to adjusting the amount of medication you are taking, your healthcare provider may alter the frequency at which you or your child consumes the medicine. Some patients might benefit by taking their medication in the morning, and then supplementing with an immediate release dosage taken as needed. This can help avoid the "crash effect" that can occur after the first dose wears out.
Many people who suffer from ADHD experience symptoms that improve significantly when they follow an established routine. If they follow a routine, they might be more productive at work or school. They are also less likely to lose their backpacks or keys if they do so daily. Additionally, some children suffering from ADHD may benefit by keeping a daily journal that helps them understand the triggers that cause their symptoms.
In addition to modifying the way they live their lives and routines, people with ADHD can also reduce their need for medication by establishing an aid network and practicing relaxation techniques. They can also learn to control their emotions and engage with a therapist in order to address negative feelings which can cause ADHD symptoms worse. It is essential to locate a therapist who is skilled in helping people with ADHD and understands the unique challenges that come with neurodiversity.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a successful treatment for those suffering from ADHD that can help reduce symptoms and increase self-esteem. It involves teaching patients to identify and change negative thoughts that are causing them to have problems. CBT therapists also teach patients to apply healthy habits and techniques. The practice of these techniques and behaviors will allow you to lead a more fulfilling life with less stress.
CBT can help control emotions and also improve attention. People suffering from ADHD often have uncontrollable feelings and pessimistic thinking which can lead to low self-esteem or mental health issues. Most often, they are unable to focus on their work and find it hard to complete tasks. They might also have difficulties staying organized and have unrealistic expectations. These issues can cause severe distress and frustration if they are not addressed.
A recent study found CBT group therapy in conjunction with medication or by itself can be more effective for adults suffering from ADHD than medication alone. The study included 88 people who underwent manualized group CBT with a coach or therapist or coach, either without (n=46) or with medication (n=42). The participants were rated at the 3- and 6-month follow up using unblinded report and observer ratings. The results showed that both CBT and CBT+medication groups were able to improve their executive function than just the medication group did.
Cognitive behavior therapy can help adults to develop new ways of thinking and acting and has been proven to dramatically reduce anxiety, depression and ADHD primary symptoms when compared to pharmacotherapy. It is a quick, simple treatment option. However it requires a patient's steadfast determination to see positive results. It can also be difficult to locate a therapist who can provide this type 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 reduce ADHD symptoms like impulsivity and difficulties with time management and temper outbursts.
Furthermore, some studies suggest that CBT can be used to treat other conditions, such as anxiety and depressive disorders. However it is essential to remember that the efficacy of CBT in other conditions will differ from person to person and a trained mental health professional should evaluate the individual's needs prior to prescribing this kind of therapy.
Lifestyle changes
There are a variety of treatments for ADHD. Some people can manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyles and undergoing therapy. Some people require a combination of medication and non-medication treatment to achieve the greatest results. Medications can help improve attention and reduce impulse-driven behavior, but they're not an effective treatment for the condition.
The first step to treat ADHD is to create a daily 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 consistent schedule will ensure that you remain focused and on track and also reduce stress and anxiety. It's also important to get enough sleep which can aid in managing your symptoms. Exercise is a great method to combat ADHD without taking medication. It helps you focus and helps reduce impulsive behavior. Aim to exercise for 30 minutes every day.
Incorporating healthy food items into your diet can enhance the way you think and behave. Include vegetables, fruits and whole grains in your diet. Reduce your intake of processed and sweet foods. Additionally, eating fish that is fatty can provide omega-3 fatty acids to aid in improving your focus. Meditation and other techniques for relaxation will help you relax, and ease anxiety. Caffeine may also boost your concentration, but it is essential to avoid large quantities of caffeine, or it can cause negative side effects. Drink green tea instead, which is high in the amino acid L-theanine.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in identifying negative thinking patterns that affect your emotions and behavior. CBT can, for example can help you to change your "all or none" thinking in which you believe that you're either an absolute success or a total failure. It can also increase your self-esteem and assist you to develop healthy coping techniques.
Other treatment options for ADHD include mindfulness exercises which can help you stay in the present moment and learn to accept your emotions. You can also engage in self-compassion exercises such as giving yourself a uplifting hug that is positive and encouraging. You can also try a technique called EEG biofeedback, which uses an application on computers to monitor brain waves and teach you how to control them.