Treatment For ADHD Without Medication
Medications help some people manage the symptoms of ADHD however, they're not always necessary. Alternative treatments can be extremely efficient.
These include cognitive behavior therapy and lifestyle modifications. These are often combined with medication for treating adults and children. They are generally cheaper than stimulants. They may take longer to be effective.
Medications
If your child is suffering from mild forms of ADHD, lifestyle changes and behavioral interventions may be sufficient to improve symptoms. However, for some medications are also an important part of treatment. The drugs for ADHD increase brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which boost the ability to focus and control impulses. They are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in kids and teens. However, like all medications, they come with adverse effects. Consult your physician to determine 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 can be tablets, liquids or chewables. Intermediate stimulants, such as amphetamines, take longer time to work, but they last for six to eight hours. More suggestions -acting stimulants like Atomoxetine (Strattera) or Guanfacine (Concerta) are even more potent and have longer-lasting effects lasting up to 16 hours.
Certain doctors may also prescribe clonidine (Catapress) or Guanfacine (Redux) for very young children who have extreme hyperactivity and impulsivity. A compounding pharmacy can turn these into liquids for young children or mix them with water to make it easier to take in. These drugs increase blood pressure, and they are generally only utilized for a few months or less once the person's symptoms begin to improve.
Stimulants can have serious side effects, such as heart issues and addiction. Your doctor will begin with a low dose and gradually increase it until your symptoms are under control. Then your doctor will change you to a different medication or decrease the dose.
If you or your child have difficulty tolerating the ADHD medications, your doctor might prescribe an antidepressant type known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs), like Strattera or Qelbree. These medications do not increase dopamine levels like stimulants, however they can help improve concentration and impulse management.
Certain antidepressants that are older like phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) can also treat ADHD with some benefits however, they come with serious side effects that can include seizures. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors that boost the levels of brain chemical serotonin, may also be helpful for some people suffering from ADHD. However, they aren't as thoroughly researched as the 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 teaches people how to manage their symptoms using self-management techniques. Dietary changes, exercise as well as improvements in sleep and other treatments are also available. Many adults find that the combination of these treatments can decrease or eliminate the need for medication. It is crucial to talk to your doctor prior to trying any treatment for ADHD without medication. They will help you select the appropriate medication for your or your child's needs and monitor your response to ensure the medication is working correctly.
Stimulants are the most effective treatment for ADHD however they can also trigger adverse effects such as an abrupt drop in appetite, and issues with sleep. It is also possible that stimulants could result in dependence. These issues can deter some families from using these drugs. However, studies show that the proper dosage and timing can reduce these adverse effects.
In addition to adjusting the amount of medication, your healthcare provider may change the frequency that you or your child consumes the medication. Certain patients may benefit from taking their medication in the morning, and later supplementing with an immediate release dosage that is taken as needed. This can help avoid the "crash" effect that may occur after the first dose wears off.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice that their symptoms improve when they stick to a schedule. If they follow a routine, they will be more successful at work or school. They are also less likely to lose their keys or backpacks when they are doing it daily. Some children with ADHD might benefit from keeping a diary. This helps them identify the situations that trigger their symptoms.
Some adults with ADHD may be able to reduce their medication needs by forming an organization that can support them and learning relaxation techniques. They can also work with a therapist and learn to control their negative emotions which can cause ADHD worse. It is crucial to select the right therapist who specializes in working with people suffering from ADHD and who is aware of the unique challenges that arise with neurodiversity.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective treatment that can improve symptoms and boost self-esteem for patients with ADHD. It helps patients recognize and modify negative thoughts that are causing them problems. CBT therapists also teach patients how to practice healthy habits and techniques. Through practicing these habits and thinking, you will be able to lead a more productive and less stressed.
In addition to improving concentration, CBT can help with emotional regulation. People with ADHD often experience a heightened sense of anxiety and negative thinking, which can lead them to low self-esteem or poor mental health. Most often, they are unable to focus on their work and find it hard to finish tasks. In addition, they may have trouble staying organized and may develop unrealistic expectations. If not addressed, these issues can interfere with the daily activities of a person and cause significant stress and anger.
A recent study has found that group CBT alone or in combination with medication may be more effective than medication for adults suffering from ADHD. The study involved 88 adult participants who received CBT group therapy in a manual manner with an instructor/therapist, either without medication (n=46) or with medication. The participants were assessed at the 3 and 6-month follow-ups using unblinded report and ratings by observers. The results revealed that the CBT group and the CBT+medication group both saw greater improvements in their executive function compared to the medication groups only.
Cognitive behavior therapy helps adults develop new ways of thinking and acting, and it has been proven to dramatically lower depression, anxiety, and ADHD core symptoms compared to medication. It is a quick and simple treatment option, however, it requires a firm commitment from the patient in order to achieve positive results. It is also difficult to find a qualified therapist who is able to provide this type of treatment.
CBT, unlike other forms of psychotherapy, is a short-term therapy that is focused on the present. It is also goal-oriented and employs problem-focused strategies to reduce ADHD symptoms such as impulsivity, time management difficulties, and temper tantrums.
Some research has shown that CBT is effective in treating other disorders like depression disorders and anxiety disorders. It is important to keep in mind that the effectiveness CBT can vary from person-to-person. A qualified mental health practitioner will evaluate the individual's needs prior to prescribing this type therapy.
Lifestyle changes
There are a variety of treatments available for ADHD. Some sufferers can manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyles and undergoing therapy. Others need to use an array of medications and non-medical treatments to achieve the most effective results. The medications can help improve the ability to focus and reduce impulsive behavior but they can't treat the condition.
The first step in treating ADHD is to establish a routine for the day. It can be as easy as establishing specific times for waking up, eating meals, going to work or school as well as engaging in leisure activities. A routine schedule can ensure that you remain focused and on track as well as reduce anxiety and stress. You should also get enough rest to help manage your symptoms. Exercise is a great way to treat ADHD without taking medication. It helps you stay focused and helps reduce impulsive behavior. Aim to exercise for 30 minutes a day.
The inclusion of healthy food items in your diet can help you improve your mental and physical health. Make sure to include vegetables, fruits whole grains, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit your consumption of processed and sugary foods. In addition, consuming fatty fish can provide omega-3 fatty acids to help you focus better. Incorporating meditation and other relaxation methods can aid in relaxation and reduce your anxiety levels. Caffeine can also improve your concentration, however it's important to avoid large amounts of caffeine or it could cause adverse side effects. Green tea is a great alternative, since it's a source of the amino acid Ltheanine.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you discover negative thinking patterns that influence your feelings or behaviors. CBT can, for example can help you overcome your "all or none" mentality in which you believe that you're either successful or a complete failure. It can also help you improve self-esteem and build healthy coping skills.
Other supplemental treatments for ADHD include mindfulness exercises which can help you focus on the present moment and learn to accept your emotions. Try practicing self-compassion exercises like giving yourself a positive and positive hug. You can also try EEG biofeedback that uses computers to monitor brainwaves and teach you how to control them.