Options for ADHD treatment

Answer 1

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a disease that was rarely discussed just a few short years ago, yet it has catapulted to the forefront of the minds of children, parents, teachers and medical professionals over the past few years. As the number of individuals diagnosed with this disease increases, so do the different methods and variations of ADHD treatment.

Prescription drugs are the most common form of treatment for those suffering from ADHD. Stimulants and psychostimulants have proven to be effective in the treatment of ADHD for a number of years and have proven effective in 70% to 80% of those that have utilized these options. These types of medication assist users in the avoidance of distractions, thus allowing them the ability to better focus their thoughts. These drugs have been prescribed to people of all ages, ranging from those in early childhood straight through to those in adulthood. They have been proven to be effective in the treatment of both moderate and sever cases of ADHD. Ritalin is the most well known stimulant drug prescribed but there are a host of other medications available such as: Dexedrine, Concerta, and Desoxyn.

Behavioral management techniques can be a beneficial addition to a treatment plan in conjunction with prescription drugs. This technique is generally most effective in young children and adolescents, but it can be helpful to older children and adults on occasion as well. Encouraging positive behavior with rewards and praise is the most basic method of behavioral management and is most effective when the reward is administered immediately following the positive behavior. Following the same logic, negative behavior is reinforced with swift and appropriate consequences immediately following the poor behavior. Creating and following through with a consistent routine provides a level of much needed structure when incorporating any ADHD treatment. Changes to the routine should be announced as far in advance as possible so the patient will have ample time to prepare for their break from the usual.

While there are many treatment options for those suffering from ADHD, steady communication, establishing realistic expectations of behavior and following through with appropriate rewards and consequences are paramount to success. A stable and consistent environment can also provide the necessary foundation for recovery.