How do you currently treat ADHD?

The two main types of treatment for ADHD are medication and behavioral therapy.

Medication

Stimulant medications are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD. These medications, which include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Adderall), increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are involved in attention and focus. Stimulants can help people with ADHD focus better, control impulsive behavior, and reduce hyperactivity.

Other types of medications that may be used to treat ADHD include:

* Nonstimulants: These medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and clonidine (Kapvay), are not as effective as stimulants for treating ADHD, but they may cause fewer side effects.

* Antidepressants: These medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may help treat ADHD symptoms such as inattention and hyperactivity, especially when these symptoms are accompanied by anxiety and depression.

Behavioral therapy

Behavioral therapy helps people with ADHD develop skills to manage their symptoms. This type of therapy may involve:

* Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT): PCIT helps parents learn how to set clear limits and expectations for their children, as well as how to provide positive reinforcement for good behavior.

* Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps people with ADHD learn how to identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors.

* Social skills training: Social skills training helps people with ADHD learn how to interact with others in a positive way.

* Time management training: Time management training helps people with ADHD learn how to plan and organize their time.

* Educational support: Educational support can help people with ADHD succeed in school. This support may involve providing extra time on tests, allowing students to take breaks, and helping students with organizational skills.

Combination therapy

In many cases, a combination of medication and behavioral therapy is the most effective way to treat ADHD. This approach allows people with ADHD to benefit from the strengths of both types of treatment.