Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a comprehensive disorder that leads to different behaviors among children and adults. Symptomatic behaviors include hyperactivity, difficulty holding attention, as well as impulsive actions.
There is no complete cure for ADHD. However, ADHD symptoms can be greatly reduced by carrying out different treatments based on the different signs and symptoms that a person is exhibiting.
Most people are diagnosed with ADHD as early as two or three years or age, and the condition continues into adulthood. While most people are able to focus on the disorder better as they get older, it can be a struggle throughout an entire life. Tasks that require significant mental effort can aggravate symptoms, causing them to worsen.
ADHD Treatments Vary By Symptoms
There are a significant number of ADHD treatments. Doctors will recommend specific treatments depending upon the observed symptoms. Among the top treatments are medications, as well as behavioral modification activities and counseling.
Medication
All of the subdivisions of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have medication options to treat symptoms related to both hyperactivity and inattention.
Behavioral Treatments
Behavioral therapy is often the first treatment option for those with an ADHD diagnosis, especially for younger children. Parents or other loved ones are often brought in to interact with the person struggling with ADHD symptoms. Addressing the diet can also help suppress certain ADHD symptoms as well. Social skill training for specific situations is also helpful.
Extracurricular activities can also be a good way to help children with ADHD. These structured activities can be productive and creative outlets that can become positive rewards to help encourage and develop self-discipline. For instance, art and music classes may be helpful for children who express the ADHD-Inattentive symptoms of daydreaming and distractedness. Dance, sports, or other high energy activities may be helpful for children exhibiting symptoms related to the ADHD Hyperactive-Impulsive or Combined types.
