Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, starts during childhood and can persist into adulthood. The symptoms of the disorder can cause problems in school and in interacting with other people. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that 56 percent of children with ADHD take medication as of 2003, some parents want to treat their child's condition without the use of drugs.
Types
The National Institute of Mental Health explains that ADHD has three types. For example, patients with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD have six or more hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, such as getting up from their seat at inappropriate times, interrupting people and having problems waiting their turn. Patients with predominantly inattentive ADHD have six or more symptoms of inattention, such as making careless mistakes, being disorganized and having problems completing work. With combined ADHD, patients have six or more symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
Diagnosis
MedlinePlus explains that children are often misdiagnosed with ADHD. Symptoms of other problems can resemble ADHD, such as depression, behavior disorders, learning disorders, tic disorder or even a lack of sleep. To properly diagnosis ADHD, a physician or psychologist will give the child a full evaluation. This includes giving questionnaires to the teachers and parents, and performing psychological testing on both the child and parents. The physician or psychologist will also examine the child's physical, mental and developmental state to rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options
Different types of therapy can manage the symptoms of ADHD. For example, behavior therapy teaches patients to control their hyperactive or impulsive behaviors. If social interaction is a problem, patients can attend social skills training. The MayoClinic.com notes that if another disorder occurs with ADHD, such as a mood disorder, psychotherapy can help. Another option is a support group, where the patient can meet with other ADHD patients and discuss problems they deal with and how they cope. Families may benefit from family therapy, in which a therapist can help everyone understand and cope with ADHD.
Benefits
By not using medications, patients do not have to deal with potentially dangerous side effects. For example, stimulant medications can cause heart problems in some patients, a decreased appetite and difficulty sleeping. Stimulant medications also have a potential to become addictive. The MayoClinic.com points out that nonstimulant medications may cause jaundice or suicidal thoughts. Therapies also teach patients how to manage their condition on their own, which they can continue to use into adulthood.
Considerations
Parents can help patients by making a few changes at home, which can reinforce the lessons they learn in therapy. For example, the National Institute of Mental Health explains that posting a schedule and organizing school supplies can keep patients on task and help them complete their schoolwork. Having consistent rules in the house can minimize behavioral problems. To reinforce good behavior and achievements, parents can give patients praise and rewards.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: ADHD, Data and Statistics
- MayoClinic.com: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) -- Treatment and Drugs
- MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
