Best ADHD Treatments

Studies show that medication or combination plans are superior to alternative forms of treatment for ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. While some people focus on behavioral or cognitive therapy, therapy alone is inferior to a plan that offers multiple approaches. Medication is also a more effective treatment than just therapy. The best treatment plan for ADHD is one that includes medication but also offers other angles such as socialization and parental involvement.

Socialization Techniques

• It's important to teach children with ADHD how to socialize and interact with others. Inappropriate speech, touching or other actions can seriously affect their lives. Learning how to have a relationship helps a person with ADHD develop friendships and maintain a healthy social existence. Role-playing is one way to educate. Regularly show the child how to respond to social cues. Act out social and school situations the child might encounter, focusing on emotional reactions, touching and questioning.

  For example, rather than telling someone with ADHD what he should do when someone greets him with a touch, show him by demonstrating with another person. Then have him practice with you. Observe an interaction between him and a friend, using prompting and coaching to assist. Immerse him in a larger group and note improper actions to discuss and review privately.

Parental Involvement

• Children with ADHD who have proactive parents make significantly more progress than children whose parents remain absent or distant from treatment. Parents who understand the disorder and the treatments are better equipped to handle situations and guide their children in the right direction. Part of a quality comprehensive plan to treat ADHD includes parental involvement, regardless of the severity of the symptoms.

  Once parents are able to identify problem areas, they can bring them to the attention of the therapist. Since a therapist only sees the patient a few hours a week, it is likely that certain symptoms are missed. An involved parent will clearly outline the issues and bring them to the attention of the therapist, speeding up the rate of progress.

  Parents should reward good behaviors using positive reinforcement. Instead of only offering toys, treats or other material rewards, use praise and love as frequently as possible. The positive effect of using praise lifts the child's self-confidence and overall sense of happiness.

  Rather than leave treatment up to the child and therapist or medication, a parent who chooses to be involved will accept responsibility to help.