3 Common Reasons Why Your ADHD No Medication Isn't Working (And How To Fix It)
ADHD Medications and Other Treatments ADHD can trigger a wide spectrum of symptoms that can cause people to be unable to be productive at work or school. Sometimes, these issues are not properly diagnosed. Adults suffering from adhd who do not take medication may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to develop better ways to think about stress and how to handle it. A healthy diet and regular exercise can also help. Medications Many people are reluctant to take medication, but the right medication can make a big difference. ADHD medications boost brain chemicals that affect attention, concentration and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them initially in small doses, and then increase them gradually until ADHD symptoms are reduced. Patients who take ADHD medicines have regular checkups to determine whether the medication is effective and to monitor for any side effects. Stimulants are the most popular treatments for ADHD. They are taken orally and come in a variety of forms. These include tablets that can either be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolved into capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food; and liquids which can be mixed with water or swallowed. These medicines are usually taken daily by the majority of people. The most common stimulants are methylphenidates (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall) and amphetamines. They work by stimulating certain areas of the brain to increase concentration and reduce impulsive behavior. They are typically given to children who are older than 5 years old, but they are also available to teens and adults who haven't responded to other treatments. There are other medications that treat ADHD. However, they are less common in children due to their potential adverse consequences. Monoamine oxidase inhibiters are antidepressants which can help those suffering from ADHD. They do this by increasing brain chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine. They are generally only used if other treatments don't work however, they have been linked to a variety of deaths caused by heart rhythm issues. adhd treatment without medication used monoamine inhibitor of oxidase is the drug phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a newer version of this medication that has been found to treat ADHD in a small number of patients, but it is not studied as extensively. Adults and children alike can have symptoms that are similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders and a few personality disorders, particularly antisocial personality disorder, which is seen at a high rate in adults suffering from ADHD (Mannuzza et al 1998). If a patient is suffering from an underlying condition that is causing ADHD and other psychiatric disorders, doctors attempt to treat the most severe symptoms of the other disorders prior to attempting medications for ADHD. Alternative Treatments Many people with ADHD are not able to find medication helpful, and may seek other treatments. They are usually referred to as alternative or complementary therapies (CAM). They include eating certain foods, taking nutritional supplements and sleep training, exercise yoga, meditation and brain-based therapies such as neurofeedback. These treatments are an excellent supplement to any ADHD treatment plan. A change in diet can be beneficial, as many people with ADHD find that certain food items can aggravate their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts suggest keeping a food diary to determine whether certain foods trigger symptoms. If you notice that their ADHD symptoms improve or become worse after eating certain food items, it's important to discuss this with a physician who might suggest consulting an dietitian. Some people suffering from ADHD notice that they feel better after they take certain supplements or vitamins. However, there's not a lot of evidence that these things really work. Before attempting any of these supplements it's best to consult your doctor, as they may interfere with certain medicines. Regular exercise is beneficial for everyone, but especially for people with ADHD. Studies show that moderate to intense exercise can help the brain release chemicals that aid in controlling attention and behaviour. It's most effective when you exercise outdoors, away from televisions, computers and video games. A behavioral therapy is another treatment that doesn't involve medication. It teaches new ways of behaving and is usually best for children under five. It can be helpful for older children and adults. It is typically combined with cognitive behavior therapy, which is aimed at changing negative thoughts and beliefs. A form of behavior called sensory integration training aims to train the brain to react to sensory signals, such as hearing and sight. This is a relatively new treatment and more research is required. It's worth a try, particularly when a person suffering from ADHD also has other mental health problems. Counseling Certain people with ADHD can find relief from depression and anxiety through psychotherapy, which can be provided by therapists who are certified or in groups. Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), can help you learn how to manage your issues and deal with stress. CBT, for example can help you overcome negative or irrational thoughts such as “I always make mistakes” or “this won't work.” There are a variety of other treatment options for adhd that don't require medication. These include creating healthy sleeping habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and regular exercise. Consult your physician before attempting to eliminate any food or supplements. You can also seek help through self-help and support groups. These groups can help with a range of issues, such as managing anxiety, relationships, or low self-esteem. These may be available in person, on the internet or over the phone. Many of these services are free or are free. Behavioral therapy is a good option for children who have ADHD. It can also be beneficial for teenagers and adults. In a behavioral therapy session, a trained therapist helps you and your child develop strategies to lessen the symptoms of ADHD and improve family functioning. For instance, the therapist might teach you how to use positive reinforcement and reward systems. A therapist can also teach your child and you to recognize when signs are present and how to calm. This is particularly beneficial for parents who may feel overwhelmed by their child's unpredictable behavior. Therapists may also suggest teaching you and your child relaxation techniques, including meditation or progressive muscle relaxation visualization and deep breathing. Behavioral therapy may also include training for teachers to make it easier for them to work with students who have ADHD. The therapist may advise you to use “report cards” in order to let teachers know if your child is meeting the behavior goals they set for the day. They could then award him a reward for good behavior. These kinds of strategies have been shown to improve the daily functioning of both adults and children with ADHD. Support Groups Adults suffering from ADHD are often unable to understand their behavior and symptoms which can be a challenge. Support groups can help people with ADHD gain acceptance and support from others who share similar experiences. They can also learn new coping skills and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are led by professionals, whereas others are peer-led. Some support groups offer workshops, educational materials and guest speakers. Support groups also offer a place where participants can join with others and work together to share resources. Online support groups can be a great alternative for those who can't attend meetings in person. ADDitude magazine, for example has an online forum that allows members to exchange ideas and interact. The site also offers a list of professional ADHD coaches and other sources. It is also possible to find online ADHD support groups through their health insurance, or a website that offers mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for instance can provide counseling and therapy for those suffering from mental health issues including ADHD. Family and friends are good sources of social support. Let your closest friends and family know that you have ADHD to allow them to offer more assistance and support with daily tasks. For example, an ADHD spouse could help with the preparation of meals or cleaning, while your close friend can be a great listener when you're overwhelmed. Select a reputable organization if you're thinking about joining an ADHD support group. You should also be wary of social media forums and sites that allow anyone to post. These forums may offer advice that is against medical guidelines, or could be harmful. Support groups should be considered as part of a treatment plan that includes therapy, medication, and skills training.