Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been diagnosed in about 4.7 million children in the United States. The disorder is marked by symptoms such as inattention, distractibility, impulsivity and hyperactivity. ADHD requires treatment interventions to alleviate symptoms that interfere with normal school and home life. Most often, alternative treatments are used before medication. It is recommended that parents use a combination of medication and alternative approaches to treat the symptoms of ADHD.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of treatment administered by mental health providers which helps children focus on the ways their thoughts and attitudes affect their behavior and feelings. Children with ADHD can suffer from negative self-esteem and defeatist attitudes as a result of their symptoms. This treatment approach requires time and resources to cover costs of therapy. It works well in conjunction with medication if medication is a treatment chosen by a primary care physician or psychiatrist.
Medication: Stimulants
The most common medications used for treating ADHD are psychostimluants. These include Methylphenidate drugs (Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, and Daytrana) as well as Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin). They work by increasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter important for cognitive functions such as focus and attention. Most of these drugs are available in short-acting and long-acting dosage forms. Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) work by blocking the reabsorption of dopamine and norepinephrine. All medications can cause side effects and should be monitored closely by a physician.
Medication: Non-Stimulants
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an approved non-stimulant for ADHD. It increases levels of both norepinephrine and dopamine. Long-term effects are still unknown. Antidepressants which are not FDA-approved for ADHD have been helpful in circumstances were other mediations were not tolerated. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and tricyclics such as Imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventil) affect the reuptake of the serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine neurotransmitters. Side effects such as restlessness, agitation, sleeplessness, and headache and stomach problems are reported.
Establish Consistent Rules
Structure and consistency is needed for an ADHD child. Be consistent as possible with well-defined rules. Be flexible when necessary and understanding that an ADHD child has difficulty with change. Create a predictable routine, with a neat and stable home environment. Parenting approaches should include reward system for good behavior and discourage destructive behavior.
Establish Reward Systems
According to the National Institute of Mental Health children with ADHD respond particularly well to reward systems. A reward system works best if the child is given the reward first and then allowed to keep it if their behavior remains appropriate. Rewards can be tracked by creating a chart with points or stars for good behavior or completing tasks. Rewards can include playing a game with a parent, extra privileges, or a special trip somewhere to play. Avoid food or gifts. Small rewards and short-term waiting periods work best for children with ADHD. A chart that awards small points that can accumulate to use for a large tangible reward works as well.
Improve Concentration with Physical Exercise
Activities that hold a child's concentration will help train her ability to focus and be engaged. According to Sandy Maynard a founding board member for the Institute for the Advancement of ADHD Coaching states sports such as swimming and tennis require focus of attention and limit peripheral stimuli. Football and basketball may be difficult because of constant alertness and peripheral stimuli. Tae Kwon Do and other martial arts can offer an appropriate and controlled emotional outlet to help focus attention and teach self-discipline.
