Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder usually surfaces in early childhood and continues throughout adulthood. It can cause debilitating problems in the life of the person affected.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, ADHD manifests as three different types: "Predominantly inattentive type" is characterized by the inability to focus on work or conversations, or to complete tasks. "Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type" demonstrates restlessness and impulsive behavior. "Combined type" ADHD is a combination of the inattentive and the hyperactive types.
Treatments are available that can help all three types of ADHD.
Medication
The Mayo Clinic lists three types of stimulant drugs and one nonstimulant drug that have been found to be effective in the treatment of ADHD.
Ritalin, Adderall and Dexedrine are stimulants. The mechanisms by which they alleviate the symptoms of ADHD are not fully understood, but scientists speculate that they help to balance brain chemistry. Dramatic improvements in symptoms, such as inattentiveness and hyperactivity, have been demonstrated in patients who use these medications.
When stimulant medications fail to help, the nonstimulant drug Strattera is sometimes prescribed. Strattera reduces ADHD symptoms as well as anxiety.
Both types of medication have potential side effects, and doctors often have to adjust dosages to find the most effective amount for each individual ADHD patient. The administration of stimulant drugs to children remains a subject of controversy among some groups, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).
Counseling and Therapy
Psychiatrists or other mental health care professionals can administer therapeutic interventions, such as psychotherapy, that have been shown to benefit ADHD patients. Social skills training and support groups also can contribute to the treatment of ADHD patients. Family members of the ADHD patient are sometimes included in the therapy.
Parent Training
The entire family benefits when parents receive special training in the skills necessary to help their ADHD child. Traditional parenting techniques may be ineffective in helping a child with ADHD. Parent training for managing the ADHD child can occur in a group setting or during one-on one sessions with a specially trained therapist.
ADHD is incurable, but not unmanageable. By educating themselves about the various treatments available to alleviate the cluster of associated symptoms, parents of ADHD children and adults with ADHD can select the most appropriate method for managing the condition.
There is hope and help out there for those with suffering with ADHD to live happy, productive lives.
