1. Make an Informed Choice of Medication
With the help of your child's doctor, you'll be introduced to a range of stimulant drugs that can be used to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. What will probably happen is that your doctor will suggest beginning treatment with a drug, based on your child's specific symptoms. Then, the effects and side effects of that medicine will be closely observed by your child's doctor, with your help, and adjustments will be made as necessary. Some children respond better to several doses of short-acting drugs, while others are successfully treated using single doses of long-acting drugs.
If you're the parent of a post-pubescent child, your doctor may choose a different type of medication. Some teens have coexisting conditions with ADHD which are more effectively treated using antidepressants. You can play an active role in ensuring your child receives the most effective possible treatment by making sure your child's condition is accurately diagnosed. If you like, you can seek a second opinion before committing to a particular strategy.
2. Therapy and More: Consider Supplementary Techniques
Because ADHD drug treatments tend to be most effective when combined with education and/or behavioral therapy, your doctor is likely to direct you to a network of professionals who can provide secondary care. These therapy workshops help your child learn and master techniques that can help him or her be more successful socially and academically.
More and more, doctors are noting the therapeutic benefits exercise has on attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children. In particular, outdoor play in natural environments seems to coincide with a reduction in major symptoms. You can help your child by making recreational choices with a significant physical activity component.
3. Natural and Alternative Therapies
You might have concerns about putting your child on drug therapy, in which case you'll want to explore some natural alternatives that are available to you. Most natural therapies are based on nutrients and aim to regulate dopamine levels in the brain. Iron, magnesium and essential fatty acids like omega-3 are believed to contribute to proper dopamine production. You can introduce more of these nutrients into your child's diet through food sources or by means of dietary supplements like fish liver oil.
Alternative therapies are also believed to be more effective when combined with counseling and behavior interventions, so don't overlook the valuable contributions health professionals can make to treating your child's ADHD. No matter what course of treatment you choose to follow, you should pursue it under the watch and guidance of a doctor and child psychologist.
