I make my living providing successful Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment. While there are no "magic fixes" for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), there are many helpful methods that can help one manage the symptoms and challenges. The condition is best tackled on many fronts and treatment often includes a combination of therapy, medications, diet, coaching, exercise, natural remedies, and other approaches.
Medications
New ADHD medications are released every year and the popular major pharmaceutical releases include Ritalin, Focalin, Daytrana, Concerta, Dexedrine, Adderall, Strattera, and Vyvanse. Furthermore, antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. Clonidine, a high blood pressure medication, has also been found to benefit those with ADHD. Furthermore, medications such as Provigil, Modafinil, and Nuvigil have been utilized with some success by adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. They enhance wakefulness and alertness and were initially used to treat Narcolepsy, work shift sleep disorders, and sleep apnea, but are gaining other off-label uses such as treating ADHD.
Many concerned parents are skeptical about giving their children ADHD medications, most of which are stimulant or amphetamine based. I was one of them. However, I have many patients that tolerate ADHD medication very well and medication is a key component in their treatment. The bottom line is this: because meds affect everyone differently, often times it is a matter of trail and error to find what works best.
Safer, All-Natural Medications
Natural ADD treatment options include natural supplements including Attend, Brightspark, Listol, Focus Formula, and Intuniv. These supplements are mostly plant and herb based, and are not amphetamine-based stimulants. As a result, ingesting them does not result in debilitating side effects, addictive properties, or withdrawal symptoms. They are safer and more mild.
Other Effective ADHD Treatments
While medication is very useful, pills are never a substitute for learning the skills to manage ADHD. As a result, therapy is the second most popular among Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder treatments. (It is important to remember that psychiatric medications should not be the sole treatment as they are more effective when combined with therapy.) Therapy can help teach new coping skills, treat any emotional blocks that may be hindering present functioning, and is essential for treating coexisting conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse which are common in those with ADHD.
In addition to therapy, many sufferers find that ADHD coaching is a great way to help them focus on practical ways to manage the condition. Coaches help ADHD sufferers develop ways to be more focused and effective at work and at home. Some utilize virtual assistants found on Elance.com to help them complete everyday tasks such as bill paying, bookkeeping or scheduling.
Similar to therapy and coaching, ADHD support groups can be an effective resource. Most find it empowering when in the company of others who are experiencing similar challenges. There is strength in numbers and support group members may offer support and advice.
Also, diet and exercise play a large role in overall optimum functioning and can also alleviate the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Yoga and meditation are also effective.