The behaviors associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) make it difficult for children, teens and adults to succeed in relationships, school and work. Traditional and alternative types of treatment can help to reduce the symptoms experienced due to this mental health disorder. Treatment can improve a person's mental health, allowing him to live a more normal life.
Behaviors
Negative behaviors associated with ADHD include trouble concentrating, blurting out answers, hyperactivity during school, forgetting important dates and appointments, losing things and interrupting others. These behaviors can cause school problems such as low grades for children and teens. A child or teen with ADHD might get teased by her peers for acting socially inappropriately. Adults with this disorder may not be able to get promoted at work, or even hold a job for a long a period of time.
Types
Types of treatment include medication, therapy, support groups and social skills training. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that the most common type of medication used in treating ADHD is stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin. If stimulants aren't effective, or produce negative side effects, Strattera, a non-stimulant, or antidepressants might be recommended. Individual and family therapy can help anyone---regardless of age---reduce their symptoms of ADHD. Therapists work with their patients to teach them behavioral techniques and assist them in understanding how their thoughts affect their emotions and behaviors. Some therapists include alternative treatments in their treatment plans such as yoga, herbal supplements and neurofeedback training, but there isn't enough research to understand the effectiveness of alternative treatments, reports MayoClinic.com.
Effects
Even though treatment for ADHD can reduce the negative behaviors, some serious side effects can occur. Helpguide.org reports that the impact of taking stimulants over a long period of time is still unknown. Sudden heart problems and death has been associated with taking stimulants, so it's recommended that people receive a cardiac evaluation before taking these medications. The other medications used in treating this disorder have their own negative side effects. Each person responds differently to medication, so it might take a few attempts before someone finds an effective medication with little or no side effects.
Considerations
Helpguide.org reports that medication is more effective when someone also participates in other treatments. Medication does not cure ADHD. It can help to reduce the negative behaviors, but it's important that other forms of treatment such as counseling be paired with medication in order to treat all aspects of the disorder. People who suffer from other mental health issues as well, such as anxiety or depression, need to take this into account while deciding on a treatment plan.
Warning
One of the main symptoms of ADHD, impulsivity, can lead children, adolescents and adults to make impulsive decisions and act recklessly. It's important that people with this disorder get treatment in order to prevent these reckless behaviors such as drinking and driving, having unprotected sex and spending large amounts of money without thinking of the consequences.
