Treatment For ADHD Without Medication
Some people can manage ADHD symptoms with medication, but it is not always required. Alternative treatments can also be effective.
They include cognitive behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes. These are usually combined with medication to treat children and adults. They are generally cheaper than stimulants. However, they take longer to effect than drugs.
Medicines
If your child has a mild form of ADHD lifestyle adjustments and behavioral modifications may be sufficient to improve symptoms. For some medications can play a crucial role in treatment. The medications for ADHD are effective by increasing the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine which enhance the ability to focus and control impulses. They are the most common treatment for ADHD in kids and teens. But, as with all medications they have negative side effects. Talk to your doctor about whether stimulants are right for you or your child.
Short-acting stimulants such as methylphenidate, also called Ritalin begin to work fast and last between three and four hours. They are available in tablets, chewables, or liquids. Amphetamines are intermediate stimulants that take longer to act but last up to eight hours. Long-acting stimulants, such as Guanfacine or atomoxetine, (Concerta), can have effects lasting up to 16 hours.
Some doctors may prescribe clonidine or guanfacine for children who have severe hyperactivity or an excessive impulsivity. A compounding pharmacy could turn these into liquids for young children, or mix them with water to make them easier to take in. These drugs can increase blood pressure, and they are generally only used for a few months or less when symptoms of the patient begin to improve.
Drugs can cause severe side effects, like heart issues and addiction. Your doctor will start with a low dose and gradually increase it until your symptoms are under control. Your doctor might then refer you to a different medication or decrease the dosage.
If you or your children have difficulty tolerating the ADHD medications and medications, your doctor may prescribe a type antidepressant called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like Strattera or Qelbree. Contrary to stimulants, these medications don't boost dopamine, but they help improve concentration and control over impulses.
Certain older antidepressants such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) can also treat ADHD with some benefit, but they carry serious side effects, which can include seizures. Monoamine oxidese inhibitors, which increase the levels of the brain chemical serotonin, may also be beneficial for people suffering from ADHD. However, they aren't as thoroughly studied as the SNRIs.
Non-medicinal treatments
In addition to medications, a variety of other options are available to treat ADHD. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps individuals to reduce their symptoms through self-management strategies. Other treatments include exercise, diet changes and sleep improvement. Many adults have found that combinations of these treatments may reduce or eliminate the need to take medication. Before you attempt to treat ADHD without medication, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider. They will help you determine the best medication for your or your child's symptoms and to monitor your responses to ensure that the medication is working properly.
Stimulants are the most effective treatment for ADHD however they can also have adverse effects such as an abrupt decrease in appetite and problems with sleep. It is also possible that stimulants cause dependence. These issues can deter families from using these medications. However, research shows that the right dosage and timing can reduce these adverse effects.
Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage of medication you or your child is taking and the frequency at which it is taken. Certain patients may benefit from taking their medication in the morning, and then supplementing with an immediate-release dosage to be taken as required. This can help avoid the "crash" effect that can occur when the first dose wears off.
Some people suffering from ADHD notice that their symptoms improve dramatically when they adhere to the same routine. They might do better at school or at work if they stick to the same routine, and they're less likely to lose the backpacks or keys when they keep them in the same place each day. Children with ADHD might also benefit from keeping a daily diary. This can help them pinpoint the situations that trigger their symptoms.
Some people with ADHD might be able to reduce their need for medication by forming an organization that can support them and learning relaxation techniques. They can also work with a therapist to learn how to control their negative emotions which can cause ADHD worse. It is crucial to locate a therapist who is skilled in helping people with ADHD and understands the unique challenges of neurodiversity.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective treatment that can help improve symptoms and boost self-esteem for patients with ADHD. It teaches patients to identify and correct negative thoughts that are causing problems in their lives. CBT therapists help patients learn healthy methods and behavior. Practicing these behaviors and thoughts will help you lead a more fulfilling life with less frustration.
In addition to enhancing concentration, CBT can assist in emotional regulation. Many people suffering from ADHD are susceptible to a heightened level of emotions and pessimistic thoughts which can result in an insecure self-esteem and poor mental health. Most often, they are unable to focus on their work and have difficulty to complete tasks. Additionally, they might struggle to stay organized and may develop unrealistic expectations. If not addressed these issues could interfere with a person's everyday functioning and cause significant distress and frustration.
A recent study showed that CBT in groups that is combined with medication or on its own can be more effective for adults suffering from ADHD than medication alone. The study involved adult participants who participated in CBT group therapy that was manualized by an instructor/therapist, or without medication (n=46), or with medication. The participants were rated at the 3 and 6-month follow-ups using unblinded report and ratings from observers. The results showed that both the CBT and CBT+medication groups had a higher improvement in their executive functioning than the medication group did.
Cognitive behavior therapy assists adults to develop new ways of thinking and acting and has been proven to significantly reduce anxiety, depression and ADHD main symptoms when compared with medication. It is a quick and easy treatment option however, it requires a strong commitment from the patient in order to achieve satisfactory results. In addition, it can be challenging to find a qualified therapist to perform this procedure.
Contrary to other types of psychotherapy, CBT is focused on the present moment and is a short-term. It is also goal-oriented and uses specific strategies to treat ADHD symptoms like impulsivity, time management difficulties, and temper tantrums.
A few studies have shown that CBT is effective in treating other conditions such as depression disorders and anxiety disorders. It is crucial to remember that the effectiveness CBT can differ from person to. A trained mental health professional will evaluate each person's needs prior to prescribing this type therapy.
Lifestyle changes
There are a variety of treatment options for ADHD. Some people can manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle and using therapy. Some individuals require a combination of medication and non-medication treatment to achieve the greatest results. The medications can improve attention and reduce impulsive behaviors however they aren't able to cure the condition.
The first step in treating ADHD is to establish a daily schedule. This could be as simple as establishing specific times for waking up, eating breakfast and going to work or school or engaging in leisure activities. A consistent schedule will keep you focused and on track and reduce anxiety and stress. You should also get enough sleep to help manage your symptoms. Exercise is a great way to treat ADHD without taking medication. It helps you focus, and reduces impulsive behaviors. Try to exercise for 30 minutes a day.
Incorporating over the counter adhd medication into your diet can improve your ability to think and act. Include fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet. Reduce your consumption of processed and sweet food items. Consuming fatty fish will also help you improve your concentration as it provides omega-3 fatty acids. The incorporation of meditation and other relaxation techniques can aid in relaxation and reduce anxiety levels. Caffeine can also increase your concentration, but it's important to avoid large quantities of caffeine as it could cause adverse side effects. Consider drinking 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 behaviors. For example, CBT can help you to change your "all or nothing" thinking, in which you believe your accomplishments are either flawless or a complete failure. It can also boost your self-esteem and assist you to develop healthy coping techniques.
Other supplemental treatments for ADHD include mindfulness exercises, which can help you concentrate on the present moment and learn to accept your emotions. You can also practice self-compassion exercises such as giving yourself an encouraging hug that is positive and encouraging. You can also try EEG biofeedback which uses computers to monitor brainwaves and teach you how to manage them.