How To Treat ADHD

Around eight percent of adults in the United States were diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder during their childhood. It can be a difficult thing to deal with well into adulthood.

But, there are lots of options to help your child navigate the world. Keep reading to find out how to treat ADHD.

Medication

Medication can be a powerful tool when you're searching for ADHD treatments. There are lots of different medications available for treating ADHD, so there may be some trial and error with finding the right medication for your child.

Different types of stimulants are often used as a treatment for ADHD. These drugs can have side effects, and therefore may not be suitable for children with certain health problems. Some of the different stimulants used for treating ADHD include dextroamphetamine, dexmethylphenidate, methylphenidate, and other amphetamine-based medications.

There are also non-stimulant medications that can be used as ADHD treatments. These include atomoxetine, which is sold under the brand name Strattera, and guanfacine, which is sold under the brand name Intuniv.

These medications don't run the same risk of addiction, but they still could have different side effects you'll need to watch out for. In some cases, anti-depressants may be used to manage ADHD, but this is typically used with adults, not children, because of the risk they pose to younger people.

But, you shouldn't push your child to take medication against their will. THat's especially true if they've previously been on medication. They may have suffered from side effects they haven't recognized or haven't shared with you.

Therapy

Therapy, when combined with other forms of treatment, can help children feel more at ease with their ADHD diagnosis. This will make them less likely to act out and improve their self-esteem overall.

And, therapy can help them manage their emotions and interact with other people more easily. Your child will learn about what frustrates them and how their negative emotional patterns form, and they'll learn strategies to cope with them in a healthier manner.

Behavioral Therapy

Certain specialized forms of therapy can help children deal with their ADHD. Behavioral therapy is one of these options, which teaches children to moderate their behaviors.

Look for different mental health and therapy options in your area, and see what you think might best benefit your child. Of course, the first option you try out may just not click. That's why it's important to be flexible and keep trying out different options until you find something that works for your kid.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

This type of therapy is usually focused on re-centering someone's thinking patterns. This will prevent your child from spiraling into negativity based on their perception of themselves as someone with ADHD. This will help them snap out of it when they're too hard on themselves and teach them to understand that just because their brain happens to work differently doesn't mean that it's wrong.

Training for Parents

Parents can also get training and therapy to help them properly take care of their child with ADHD. These forms of training will help you understand how people with ADHD interact with others and how their brains work.

And, these training options will help you learn strategies to help your child succeed. You'll learn how to create a schedule for your child that works for them. Your child may work best when larger tasks are broken down into smaller, more manageable ones, and you can help them figure out how.

You can keep study spaces organized and remove clutter to prevent your child from getting overwhelmed. Dietary changes may also help your child deal with their ADHD more effectively. Really, there are lots of different ways you can help your child succeed with ADHD, and parent-focused training is a great way to learn about all the different options.

Family Therapy

Having therapy as a family unit can also be helpful when treating ADHD. This can help you deal with the stress of ADHD, both on the child with ADHD themselves and the parents. It's also helpful for any siblings who may feel marginalized or upset with all the focus on the child struggling with ADHD.

But, make sure your child doesn't feel like family therapy is a punishment for their ADHD or that they're a burden forcing you to go to therapy. Make sure that it's clear that family therapy is simply a way to help support each other and help you all relate.

School Interventions

Your child's school may also be able to help you treat ADHD. Look into getting an individualized educational plan, or IEP, for your child. Your child may be entitled to accommodations to make their school life easier. For example, your child may be offered extra time on tests, just in case they get distracted.

Talk to the administration at your child's school, and look at the school board website to see what's offered in your area. You may also consider switching your child to a school with specialized options for people with ADHD.

How To Treat ADHD? Start Today

Clearly, there are lots of options out there when it comes to how to treat ADHD. It may take some troubleshooting, but with the right treatment, you'll be able to help your child manage their ADHD with ease.

Want to get your child started getting help with their ADHD? Take a look at the mental health services we offer at the YWCA in Corta Costa/Sacramento.

Resources:

https://adhd-institute.com/burden-of-adhd/epidemiology/

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/treatment.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350895

https://www.everydayhealth.com/adhd/guide/treatment/

https://www.verywellmind.com/add-and-attention-deficit-disorders-2161810