Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder of the brain characterized by a continuous pattern of impulsivity, inattention or hyperactivity, thereby interfering with development and daily functioning. The condition was believed to be common only in children, but studies have shown that it is prevalent in adults too. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ADHD affects around 4% to 12% of school-aged children, across the globe, as well as around 4% to 5% of college-aged students and adults.
Although there is no cure for ADHD, there are several treatment options that can help in managing the symptoms of ADHD in children and adults. Right from prescribed medications to behavioral intervention, a range of treatments may be suggested by the doctor. However, in some cases, prescribed medications alone can prove to be effective for treating ADHD. On the other hand, the National Institute of Mental Health recommends including other treatment options along with medications. Here are some of the popular treatment options for ADHD in children and adults:
1. Prescribed medications
In most cases, medications for ADHD lead to a reduction of hyperactivity and improvement in focusing, learning, and working. Medications have also shown improvement in physical coordination in the people with ADHD. Moreover, every person might need a different dose and medication type to work. So, the doctor might try and use a combination of medications and doses to find the most suitable one that works for a person. It is essential for the doctor to closely monitor the person who is under medications. The most common type of medication for treating ADHD is stimulant. Other medication is non-stimulant, which is usually prescribed by the doctor when the person has experienced side effects from stimulants. It is highly recommended to take medications that are prescribed by the doctor as these will be closely be monitored for side effects.
2. Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy helps the patient as well as their families to deal with everyday problems effectively. Here is the most common psychotherapy that helps in managing ADHD in children and adults.
3. Behavioral therapy
The therapy aims at changing the behavior of the person by involving practical assistance ranging from helping in task organization to dealing with emotional events. Behavioral therapy helps in providing assistance on rewarding oneself for acting in a wanted way such as organizing or controlling anger. The therapy also focuses on teaching how to monitor one’s own behavior.
4. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps in teaching a person some useful techniques on mindfulness and meditation. In this therapy, a person learns how to accept one’s own feelings and improve concentration.
5. Stress management through support groups
Support groups for adults and children with ADHD and their respective families help in providing an invaluable environment for gathering information about the condition and resources available for both the patient and their families. Managing ADHD with stress management techniques benefit people with ADHD by boosting their abilities to deal with stress, frustration, or anger. These techniques also help the families of ADHD patients by helping them in responding calmly to the behavior of the children or adult with the condition.
