Many things have thus far been described about ADHD, but
many wonder what the treatment options are for a disorder which is deemed by
some to be nonexistent. Depending on the severity of ADHD in the individual,
doctors may either prescribe medication, offer psychosocial treatment options
or offer changes in the individual’s environment to treat it (1). The most common
treatments are medications and psychological therapy.
The most commonly prescribed medications include stimulants,
which help the patient with ADHD focus and stay awake, as well as complete
tasks. These stimulants are mostly amphetamines. The drugs include Ritalin,
Vyvanse and Adderall. These drugs are abused by students without ADHD to
increase cognitive capacitance and endurance while studying. There are studies
which have claimed to link the use of stimulant like medications to heart
problems in later stages of life. Non-stimulant medications include Strattera
and Intuniv, which are not used as often as stimulants but may be used in
patients who cannot tolerate the use of stimulants (3).
Psychological treatments include behavioral interventions,
parental, teacher and therapeutic recreational programs, and lifestyle changes (2).
These treatments are preferred over drugs in children with an early diagnosis
because it prevents the chance of side effects caused by drugs, which children
are more prone to. Some changes such as proctoring of studying time and
one-on-one learning can help form study habits which will stick with the child.
Additionally, home schooling may be a plausible option since there is a less
chance of the child becoming distracted.
There have been many developments in the treatment methods
of ADHD, and research is still underway to learn more about how exactly the
disorder works so that additional treatments can be developed.
1) "ADHD Medication Choices,
Effects, Advisories, and More." WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 15 Oct.
2013.
2) "Easing ADHD without Meds."
Http://www.apa.org. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2013.
3) "Nonstimulant ADHD Drugs: Uses,
Types, Side Effects, and More." WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 15 Oct.
2013.
Its good that they have alternative treatments other than medication. You wouldn't want to start your child off with taking all those pills at such a young age. I believe if they stick to forming study habits and even homeschooling and being persistent they would some drastic changes. Great blog!
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