Best ADHD Treatments
By Dr. Emily Kensington
I make my living providing successful ADHD treatments.
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.
In my opinion, relieving ADHD symptoms is best done by tackling the condition on all fronts, which can include therapy, medication (pharmaceutical or homeopathic), etc. Over time you'll discover what works best for you and learn where to focus your treatment efforts.
Recommended Program For Children
In my clinical and personal opinion, the ADHD Breakthrough: Overcoming ADHD program is the most effective treatment for children with ADHD. I have used it with my own son to improve his behavior and grades, and my clients have found success with it as well.
It includes everything parents and caregivers need to know to successfully manage challenging ADHD behaviors.
Recommended Program For Adults
How To Conquer Adult ADHD is an ADHD program that was developed by an adult with ADHD. The program helps adults manage money, get more organized, how to better handle work, family, and home responsibilities, and more.
What makes this guide unique is that it is written from the viewpoint of a person with ADHD. Unlike most doctors and other ADHD treatment providers, the author understands firsthand the challenges of the condition. This fact alone make it a standout among adult Attention Deficit Disorder treatments.
ADHD Medications
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.
New ADHD medications are released every year and the popular major pharmaceutical releases include Ritalin, Focalin, Daytrana, Concerta, Dexedrine, Adderall, Strattera, and Vyvanse.
In addition, antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. According to a study by Columbia University, those in recovery from cocaine addiction who also suffer from ADHD benefitted from treatment with Wellbutrin. (See article: "Wellbutrin Is Helpful for Cocaine Addicts with ADHD".
Safer, All-Natural Medications
ADD natural remedies include BrightSpark, Focus Formula, Focus ADDult, Attend, Listol, and Synaptol.
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 ADHD 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. (For more information on this topic, try these helpful articles about ADHD and co-existing conditions and ADHD and depression).
In addition to therapy, many sufferers find that Adult 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.
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. (See ADHD diet and ADD natural remedies). Yoga and meditation can also be effective.
Recommended Books
Another valuable resource is this highly recommended book: Parenting Children With ADHD: 10 Lessons That Medicine Cannot Teach.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that there is a variety of effective ADHD treatments. Over time sufferers will find what works for them individually to help them lead happy and productive lives.
