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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be a very misunderstood illness, both by those who suffer from it and the people who love them. Sufferers are frustrated by their lack of focus and inability to remember basic tasks of daily life, and their families can feel ignored or unimportant as a result.
Treatment for ADHD has improved significantly over the years as understanding of it has improved. As a result, sufferers have a variety of options!
Medication
ADHD medication is not new, but the forms of it have significantly diversified. Stimulants Adderall and Ritalin are two of the oldest, and are still prescribed. However, as they are effectively methamphetamine, potential for abuse is very high.
As research has improved, nonstimulant drugs have emerged. Atomoxetine and Clonidine are effective, and lack the harmful side effects of stimulant drugs. However, they still carry some potentially frustrating side effects, including nausea and a loss of appetite. Some blood pressure medications are also effective for ADHD, but sudden withdrawal can be dangerous due to their effects.
Practical Options
Many sufferers of ADHD – particularly adults – decide to stop medication for a variety of reasons. For these people, changing daily practices can help. Many keep a thorough calendar to remind them of due dates, appointments, and responsibilities. This is especially easy in the age of the smartphone!
Meditation can also be effective. UCLA’s Mindful Awareness Research Center. Because meditation focuses on self-awareness and remaining in the moment, practicing it can greatly mitigate ADHD symptoms. Though learning to meditate can be challenging for ADHD individuals, the rewards are worth it.
Therapy
According to the CDC, herapy is very effective in treating ADHD. With children, therapists focus on identifying problematic behaviors and replacing them with new ones. Therapists also work with parents to guide them in how to assist their children and reward them for their progress.
For adults, the same techniques are valid, but therapy can also focus on the consequences of living with ADHD. Sufferers can experience difficulty in personal relationship, and ADHD is often comorbid with anxiety and depression.
Do you need assistance with mindfulness or other helpful ADHD therapy treatments? Azevedo Family Psychology can help! If you or someone you love suffers from ADHD and are interested in treating it with cognitive behavioral therapy, we can help. Contact us today, and together we can create a life worth celebrating.
