Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a problem that affects children across the world, impacting them in different ways. For some, they have trouble remaining quiet. Others are unable to focus on conversations. Then there are cases where children with ADHD steal or lie for no reason or gain. ADHD affects a person’s thought process, and it requires professional help to deal with everyday life. This is especially true when those with ADHD are children.
Luckily, there are several ADHD treatment options out there, and in this article, we will look at three: psychotherapy, psychostimulants, and social skills training.
1. Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy has proven to be an effective way of treating ADHD, particularly amongst children as it teaches them to deal with their thoughts and feelings. It also allows the psychotherapists to monitor and analyze the individual’s negative behaviour. Psychotherapists can introduce positive thoughts and coping mechanisms while trying to fulfill their goals: to improve attention and control aggression. Sessions of psychotherapy also let individuals discuss any issues they have with self-esteem or family relationships, which may be because of their disorder.
2. Psychostimulants
Those with ADHD can also use psychostimulants to treat their disorder, such as Adderall, Ritalin, and Concerta. It’s important to remember that psychostimulants won’t cure ADHD, but drugs like Adderall and Ritalin can help children ignore distractions and focus on the task at hand. Some parents are reluctant to let their child take medicine like Adderall, but research shows that the positives outweigh the negatives. That said, medicine works differently for everyone, so doctors may get individuals to try a combination of drugs before figuring out what works best. Also note that there can be side effects to psychostimulants, such as weight loss and suppressed appetite.
3. Social Skills Training
If you don’t want to put your child in therapy, and you don’t want them to go on psychostimulants, social skills training is an option for ADHD treatment. This form of training allows children to learn how to properly behave in social situations, providing them with a space to build and develop relationships with friends and family. These training sessions can also teach children sharing and patience, which are two things children with ADHD struggle to execute.
Takeaway
ADHD may be a serious issue among children, but it is a disorder that is readily treatable. Always speak with a health professional before making a decision about the proper route of treatment, but do know that there are options out there for your family.
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