What You Need to Know about ADHD Treatment

Though attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, can not be cured, ADHD treatment is available to help those living with the disorder effectively manage it. If you, a child, or another loved one has recently been diagnosed, you will likely have many questions. Our practice helps adults and children struggling with the disorder overcome its obstacles and live a more productive life. This starts with understanding ADHD and how treatment works best.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting how one thinks and acts. The disorder typically begins in childhood, though it can continue to affect people into adulthood. ADHD is characterized by inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These symptoms can cause children to have trouble functioning at school and adults to struggle professionally. ADHD can impact interpersonal relationships as well. This disorder is complicated, comes in different forms, and affects individuals differently.

Who needs ADHD treatment?

It is important to remember that occasionally having these symptoms does not mean one has ADHD. In general, an ADHD diagnosis requires an individual to have a significant number of symptoms, beginning in childhood and lasting for a significant amount of time. In addition, symptoms must be impacting one’s ability to function. Only a mental health care professional like a psychiatrist can accurately diagnose ADHD and provide the right treatment.

Stimulant meds are not your only option

Medication is often part of ADHD treatment, but stimulant medication is only one of several options. Over the decades, new non-stimulant medications have emerged to help treat the disorder. No patient ever has to take a medication they are uncomfortable with, and a psychiatrist will work with them to find the right medication and dose for them. Our team goes to great lengths to monitor our patients and ensure their medication is safe and has the desired effect.

Why a combination of treatments is best

Though medication can be highly effective at providing initial relief from symptoms, our team may recommend a combination of treatments to address all aspects of ADHD. It has been our experience that many patients benefit from a combination of talk therapy and medication. Therapy can help patients identify negative thoughts and behavior patterns resulting from their disorder. After diagnosing the patient's specific symptoms, a therapist can help the patient develop more positive and helpful thoughts and behaviors.

Lifestyle changes support successful treatment

A healthy lifestyle can go a long way to support ADHD treatment and make symptoms more manageable. Regular exercise and a healthy diet that avoids processed sugar support concentration and mental function. In addition, a good night’s sleep is crucial for managing ADHD. Patients having trouble in this area should talk to their doctor for advice. Those with ADHD can also benefit from giving up bad habits such as smoking, too much caffeine, and alcohol or drug use. It is also important to note that limiting digital screen time is important for well-managed ADHD.