ADHD

Many other effective treatments can help you with ADD / ADHD improve your ability to pay attention, control impulsive behavior, and curb hyperactivity. Nutritious meals, play and exercise, and learning better social skills are all part of a balanced treatment plan that can improve performance, improve your relationships with others, and decrease stress and frustration.

Medication Isn’t The Only Answer
Stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall are often prescribed for attention deficit disorder, but they might not be the best option for you — and they’re certainly not the only treatment.

Medications for ADD / ADHD may help you concentrate better or sit still, at least in the short term. But to date, there is little evidence that they improve achievement, relationships, or behavioral issues over the long term. And even in the short term, medication won’t solve all problems or completely eliminate the symptoms of ADD / ADHD.

Furthermore, there are concerns about the side effects of these powerful drugs — such as irritability, loss of appetite, and insomnia — which can also be problematic.

The bottom line: medication is a tool, not a cure. And it is most effective when combined with other treatments that address emotional and behavioral issues.

What You Need To Know About Medication

Everyone responds differently to ADD / ADHD medication. Some experience dramatic improvement while others experience little to no relief. The side effects also differ from person to person and, for some, they far outweigh the benefits. Because everyone responds differently, finding the right medication and dose takes time.
Medication for ADD / ADHD is more effective when combined with other treatments. You will get much more out of your medication if you are also taking advantage of other treatments that teach new coping skills.
ADD / ADHD medication should always be closely monitored. Medication treatment for ADD / ADHD involves more than just taking a pill and forgetting about it. Your doctor will need to monitor side effects, keep tabs on how you are feeling, and adjust the dosage accordingly. When medication for ADD / ADHD is not carefully monitored, it is less effective and more risky.
If you choose to take medication, that doesn’t mean you have to stay on it forever. Although it isn’t safe to bounce off and on any drug repeatedly, you can safely decide to stop treating your ADD / ADHD with medication if things aren’t going well. If you want to stop taking medication, be sure to let your doctor know your plans and work with him or her to taper off the drugs slowly.

Treatment And Help Starts At Home
Evidence shows that eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise, and making other smart daily choices can help you manage the symptoms of ADD / ADHD.

The Power Of Exercise In The Treatment
Studies show that spending time in nature can reduce the symptoms of ADD / ADHD. Spend at least 30 minutes outside each day, if possible. Exercising is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the symptoms of ADD / ADHD. Physical activity immediately boosts the brain’s dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels — all of which affect focus and attention. In this way, exercise and medications for ADD / ADHD such as Ritalin and Adderall work similarly. But unlike ADD / ADHD medication, exercise doesn’t require a prescription, and it’s side-effect-free.

Activities that require close attention to body movements, such as dance, gymnastics, martial arts, and skateboarding, are particularly good for persons with ADD / ADHD. Team sports are also a good choice. The social element keeps them interesting.

The Importance Of Sleep
Regular quality sleep can lead to vast improvement in the symptoms of ADD / ADHD. However, many people with ADD / ADHD have problems getting to sleep at night. Sometimes, these sleep difficulties are due to stimulant medications, and decreasing the dose or stopping the medication entirely will solve the problem. However, a large percentage of people with ADD / ADHD who are not taking stimulants also have sleep difficulties. If you are one of them, the following tips can help.

Set a regular bedtime.
If background noise keeps you up, try a sound machine or a fan.
Turn off all electronics (TV, computer, video games, iPhone) at least an hour before bed.
Limit physical activity in the evening.

Good Nutrition Can Help Reduce ADD / ADHD Symptoms
Studies show that what, and when, you eat makes a difference when it comes to managing ADD / ADHD.

Schedule regular meals or snacks no more than three hours apart. This will help keep you blood sugar level, minimizing irritability and supporting concentration and focus.
Try to include a little protein and complex carbohydrates at each meal or snack. These foods will help you feel more alert while decreasing hyperactivity.
Check your zinc, iron, and magnesium levels. Many people with ADD / ADHD are low in these important minerals. Boosting their levels may help control ADD / ADHD symptoms. Increasing iron may be particularly helpful. One study found that an iron supplement improved symptoms almost as much as taking stimulant medication.
Add more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet. Studies show that omega-3s improve hyperactivity, impulsivity, and concentration in children and adults with ADD / ADHD. Omega-3s are found in salmon, tuna, sardines, and some fortified eggs and milk products. However, the easiest way to boost your intake is through fish oil supplements.

Professional Treatment
Although there are many ways to treat ADD / ADHD, you may want to seek professional help along the way. ADD / ADHD specialists can help you develop an effective treatment plan for you. Since ADD / ADHD responds best to a combination of treatments and strategies, consulting several specialists is advisable.

To find ADD / ADHD treatment providers, you may want to contact:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

(ADD / ADHD)

Treatment isn’t just about taking medication.