Treatment For ADHD Without Medication
Certain medications can help people manage the symptoms of ADHD however, they are 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 to treat children and adults. They are usually cheaper than stimulants. However, they may take longer to take effect than other medications.
Medicines
If your child or teenager has a mild case of ADHD behavior interventions and lifestyle changes may be enough to reduce symptoms. For some people medication may be a significant part of treatment. Treatments for ADHD help by boosting the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine that improve the ability to focus and control impulses. These medications are among the most common treatment for ADHD in teens and children. However, like all medications, they can cause adverse effects. Consult your physician to determine whether stimulants are safe to use for you or your child.
Short-acting stimulants, such as methylphenidate also known as Ritalin, start working quickly and last between three and four hours. They are available as liquids, chewables or tablets. Amphetamines are intermediate stimulants that take longer to act but can last up to eight hours. Long-acting stimulants like Guanfacine or atomoxetine, (Concerta) can cause effects lasting as long as 16 hours.
Certain doctors may also prescribe clonidine (Catapress) or Guanfacine (Redux) for extremely young children suffering from extreme hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs can be converted into liquids for young children by an a compounding pharmacy or mixed with water to make them easier to take in. These drugs raise blood pressure and are only prescribed for a brief duration, usually just a few weeks or months after symptoms start to improve.
Stimulants can have serious side effects, including heart issues and addiction. Your doctor will begin with a low dosage and gradually increase it until symptoms are under control. Then your doctor will either switch you to a different medication or decrease the dose.
If you or your child have difficulty tolerating the ADHD drugs the doctor might recommend a specific antidepressant known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibits (SNRIs) such as Strattera or Qelbree. Contrary to stimulants, these drugs don't boost dopamine but aid in improving concentration and control of impulses.
Some antidepressants that are older like phenelzine and tranylcypromine, can be used to treat ADHD. However, they can have serious side effects, including seizures. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors that boost the levels of brain chemical serotonin, may also be beneficial to some adults with ADHD. But these aren't as well studied as the SNRIs.
Non-medication treatments
In addition to medications, a variety of other options exist to help treat ADHD. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps people how to manage their symptoms through self-management techniques. Other treatments include diet modifications, exercise, and sleep improvements. Many adults find that the combination of these methods can reduce or eliminate their need for medication. Before trying to treat ADHD without medication, it is essential to speak to your doctor. They will work with you to determine the best medication for you or your child's symptoms and monitor your response to ensure the medication is working as intended.
Stimulants can be the most effective treatment of ADHD however, side effects such as an abrupt decrease in appetite or sleep issues are possible. There is also a risk that stimulants can result in dependency. These issues can deter certain families from taking these medicines. Studies show that the right dosage and timing can help reduce these adverse effects.
In addition to adjusting the amount of medication, your doctor could also change how often you or your child takes the medication. For instance certain patients can prefer taking the medication in the morning and then supplementing it with an immediate release dose when required. This will help prevent the "crash effect" that can occur after the first dose has worn out.
Some people suffering from ADHD notice that their symptoms improve significantly when they follow the same routine. If treating adhd without medication follow a routine, they may be more productive at school or work. They are also less likely to misplace their backpacks or keys if they do so each day. Additionally, some children suffering from ADHD can benefit by keeping a diary for their daily activities that helps them understand what situations trigger their symptoms.
In addition to modifying the way they live their lives Some adults with ADHD can also reduce their dependence on medication by joining a support network and practicing relaxation techniques. They can also learn to manage their emotions and collaborate with a therapist to deal with negative feelings that can cause ADHD symptoms worse. It is essential to choose the right therapist who specializes in helping those with ADHD and who is aware of the unique challenges that arise with neurodiversity.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for people with ADHD which can help alleviate symptoms and increase self-esteem. It teaches patients to identify and revise negative thoughts that are causing difficulties in their lives. Therapists in CBT also instruct patients how to practice healthy habits and techniques. Through practicing these habits and thinking, you will be able to live a more productive, and less frustrated life.
In addition to improving concentration, CBT can help with emotional regulation. People suffering from ADHD frequently experience uncontrollable emotions and negative thinking, which can lead them to low self-esteem or mental health issues. They may have trouble focusing on their work, and they find it difficult to complete tasks. They may also have difficulty keeping their schedules in order and can create unrealistic expectations. If left untreated these issues could interfere with a person's daily functioning and create significant anxiety and discontent.
A recent study has found that group CBT on its own or combined with medication can be more effective than just medication for adults with ADHD. The study included adult participants who participated in CBT group therapy that was manualized by a therapist/coach or without medication (n=46) or with medication. The participants were assessed at the 3- and 6-month follow up using unblinded reports and observer ratings. The results revealed that the CBT group and the CBT+medication group both saw greater improvements in their executive function when compared to only the medication groups.
Cognitive behavior therapy helps adults develop new ways of thinking and acting, and it has been proven to dramatically reduce anxiety, depression and ADHD primary symptoms when compared to the use of pharmacotherapy. It is a fast, easy treatment option. However, it requires a patient's strong determination to see positive results. It can be a challenge to find a qualified therapist that can provide this type of treatment.
Unlike other types of psychotherapy, CBT is focused on the present moment and is short-term. It is also goal oriented and uses problem-focused techniques to help reduce ADHD symptoms like impulsiveness and problems with time management.
Furthermore, some studies suggest that CBT can be utilized to treat other conditions, such as anxiety and depressive disorders. However it is crucial to remember that the effectiveness of CBT for other conditions can vary from person to person, and a professional mental health professional should evaluate the individual's needs prior to giving this type of therapy.
Lifestyle changes
There are a variety of treatment options available for ADHD. Some people can manage their symptoms through changes in their lifestyle and through talk therapy on their own. Some individuals require a combination of treatment that includes medication and non-medication to achieve the greatest results. Medications can help improve attention and reduce impulse-driven behavior, but they aren't the only solution to the problem.
The first step in treating ADHD is to establish a routine for the day. It can be as simple to set certain times for waking and eating, getting to work or school or engaging in leisure activities. A routine schedule can help you stay focused and on task as well as reduce stress and anxiety. Also, you should get enough sleep to help manage your symptoms. Exercise is a great method to combat ADHD without taking medication. It helps you concentrate and decreases impulsive behavior. Try to do 30 minutes of exercise per day.
Adding healthy foods to your diet can improve your ability to think and behave. Include vegetables, fruits and whole grains in your diet. Limit your intake of processed and sugary foods. Consuming fatty fish can help you improve your concentration by providing omega-3 fatty acids. The incorporation of meditation and other relaxation techniques can help you relax and decrease anxiety levels. Caffeine can also boost your concentration. However, too much caffeine can have negative side effects. Green tea is a good alternative, as it contains the amino acid Ltheanine.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you discover negative thinking patterns that impact your thoughts or actions. CBT can, for instance, can help you change your "all or none" thinking, where you believe that you're either a complete success or a complete failure. It can also improve your self-esteem as well as help you develop healthy coping techniques.
Other treatment options for ADHD include mindfulness exercises which can help you focus on the present moment and develop the ability to accept your feelings. You can also practice self-compassion exercises, like giving yourself a positive, encouraging hug. You can also try EEG biofeedback which uses computers to monitor brainwaves and teach you to control them.