There are several standard ADHD treatment options. Treatment plans typically include medication, education, skills training, and psychological counseling, though a combination of these is often the most effective treatment. While these treatments can help to manage many symptoms of ADHD, there’s currently no cure for it. During your appointment, talk to your clinician about what treatment plan is right for you or your child.
Common methods used to treat ADHD include:
Medication
ADHD medication will not cure the disorder, but these drugs can help manage symptoms. The medication available on Sesame that can be prescribed for the treatment of ADHD include:
Non-stimulant medications
These drugs may be a good option if you can't take stimulants because of health problems, or if stimulants cause severe side effects. Examples of non-stimulant medication include:
- Atomoxetine & antidepressants: Antidepressants and atomoxetine act more slowly than stimulants and might take several weeks to fully take effect. These drugs have been shown to help improve the attention span of patients with ADHD.
- High blood pressure medication: Blood pressure medications such as guanfacine and clonidine are most commonly used as a treatment for high blood pressure, but have been shown to positively affect parts of the brain that control attention and impulse. This medication is rarely if ever, prescribed to children managing ADHD.
Counseling/ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
A psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or other mental health professionals can provide behavior treatment, social skills training, parent skills training, and counseling to ADHD patients. Other disorders, such as anxiety disorder or depression, may coexist with ADHD in certain adults. Professional counseling or psychotherapy may help you manage both ADHD and other mental health concerns in these situations.
In addition to the treatment plans listed above, your doctor may recommend alternative therapies to help promote overall well-being. These include yoga/ meditation, diet therapy, and neurofeedback training. Before starting any of these alternate therapies, talk to your doctor about their effectiveness and whether or not they are right for you or your child.