The goal of ADHD treatment is to reduce the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. There are different ways to treat these symptoms. Prescription medication, behavioral therapy, and natural remedies are all common ways to help treat ADHD. In the United States, the criteria for diagnosing ADHD is relatively broad which has resulted in the increase of prescription medication consumption (see Disorder NOT Disease). With the dangerous side effects and habit forming tendency of prescription drugs, many ADHD patients are looking to drug-free treatments. You might be surprised to find out how effective natural remedies can be.
Prescription Medication
Stimulants: These medications have been very effective in treating the symptoms on ADHD. Ritalin, Concerta, Dextrostat, Adderall, and Vyvanse are all stimulant drugs used to treat the disorder. Stimulants are the most common medications prescribed to ADHD patients. Although they are effective, they come with a long list of dangerous side effects, and can be habit forming.
Nonstimulants: Strattera (see Adderall vs Strattera) and Intuniv are two nonstimulants used to treat ADHD. One advantage of nonstimulants is the low risk of abuse or dependence. They work with brain chemicals to reduce the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Although they are not habit forming, they do have other dangerous side effects.
Anti-depressants: These are also used to treat all three symptoms of ADHD. Anti-depressants can be an effective option for patients who have not found success with other prescription drugs. They are also an alternative for patients who experience harmful side effects with stimulant drugs, even though they come with their own list of side effects.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy for ADHD can be used with or without prescription medicine. Parents work with a behavioral therapist in order to set goals and establish boundaries for their child. Personal goals will vary with each individual child. They may be related to school work, home life, or social situations. It is important to provide ADHD children with an environment that provides rewards for good behavior and consequences for negative behavior. It is important to be clear with these family rules, and consistently follow through with consequences.
Behavioral therapy can be an effective ADHD treatment with or without medicine. Consult your doctor for advice.
Natural Remedies
Diet and nutritional supplements are two common natural remedies used to treat ADHD. The goal of these treatments is to maximize brain health.
Dieting for ADHD patients involves two things: consuming foods that reduce symptoms, and eliminating foods that make symptoms worse. Adding protein, complex carbohydrates, and Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce symptoms of ADHD. It is also helpful to reduce intake of simple carbohydrates like sugar and white flour. Preservatives and food coloring are also believed to make ADHD symptoms worse. Work with your doctor to come up with and individualized diet plan.
Supplementing your diet may be a good way to help treat ADHD symptoms. Some ingredients used are Ginko Biloba, Brahmi, Centella Asiatica, and Siberian Ginseng. There are a number of supplements on the market that have combined these and other ingredients. Watch for "spotlight" posts that report on the effectiveness of these treatments. Also check the natural remedies section for more details.
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Disorder NOT Disease
ADHD is a disruptive behavior disorder not a neurological disease. Yes, the difference is important, and yes we will explain why.
First the definitions.
Disease: A pathological condition of a part, organ, or system of an organism resulting from various causes, such as infection, genetic defect, or environmental stress, and characterized by an identifiable group of signs or symptoms.
Disorder: An ailment that affects the function of mind or body.
The exact cause of ADHD is still unknown. Research suggests that it is related to genetic factors. This research has not identified a gene that causes the disorder, although there have been studies observing the brain and showing links between ADHD, brain structure, and brain chemistry.
ADHD can not be diagnosed by blood work, lab tests, brain scans, chemical imbalance tests, or any other clinical means. It is diagnosed by observing behavior, and assessed based on the criteria of the DSM-IV manual (see Symptoms Checklist). This manual has been updated several times over the years, redefining the symptoms needed to diagnose a patient with ADHD. As the DSM's list of symptoms has broadened with the revision of the DSM-III in 1987 and release of the DSM-IV in 1994, the number of diagnoses has increased along with the consumption of prescription medication.
Other countries have adopted a different approach to ADHD classifying it as a psycho-social disorder not a biological disorder. This is important as other countries rely less on prescription medication to treat ADHD, and more on other forms of treatment.
With the dangerous side effects and even habit forming tendency of ADHD prescriptions, we encourage our readers to research natural remedies and other holistic treatment options. Natural ADHD treatments are also helpful for those who experience some symptoms of the disorder but not enough to receive an official diagnosis.
Check out our natural treatments page for some suggestions. If you have a natural treatment that has been affective in treating your ADHD, please share in the comments section below.
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Symptoms Checklist
ADHD symptoms fall into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. There are also three types of ADHD.
-Combined ADHD: This is the most common type. It includes all three symptoms.
-Inattentive ADHD: This used to be known as ADD. It includes inattention, but not the other two symptoms.
-Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD: Includes hyperactivity and impulsivity without inattention.
Here are some common symptoms experienced with ADHD from all three categories. Symptoms of inattention may not show up until children are in school. Some or all of the following symptoms may be present.
Inattention
-difficulty paying attention to details
-makes careless mistakes when doing schoolwork or other activities
-easily distracted by irrelevant things
-interrupts activities to investigate noises or events that are commonly ignored by others
-difficulty concentrating or finishing paper work
-procrastination
-forgetfulness in daily activities
-has trouble taking turns in conversation or frequently changes the subject
Hyperactivity
-fidgeting or squirming when seated
-frequently getting up from sitting
-restlessness
-running or climbing at inappropriate times
-has difficulty playing quietly
-talking excessively
Impulsivity
-impatience
-blurting out answers out of turn
-difficulty following social rules of conversation
-interrupts or intrudes on others
-starting conversations at inappropriate times
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-Combined ADHD: This is the most common type. It includes all three symptoms.
-Inattentive ADHD: This used to be known as ADD. It includes inattention, but not the other two symptoms.
-Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD: Includes hyperactivity and impulsivity without inattention.
Here are some common symptoms experienced with ADHD from all three categories. Symptoms of inattention may not show up until children are in school. Some or all of the following symptoms may be present.
Inattention
-difficulty paying attention to details
-makes careless mistakes when doing schoolwork or other activities
-easily distracted by irrelevant things
-interrupts activities to investigate noises or events that are commonly ignored by others
-difficulty concentrating or finishing paper work
-procrastination
-forgetfulness in daily activities
-has trouble taking turns in conversation or frequently changes the subject
Hyperactivity
-fidgeting or squirming when seated
-frequently getting up from sitting
-restlessness
-running or climbing at inappropriate times
-has difficulty playing quietly
-talking excessively
Impulsivity
-impatience
-blurting out answers out of turn
-difficulty following social rules of conversation
-interrupts or intrudes on others
-starting conversations at inappropriate times
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Diagnosing ADHD
The three symptoms or signs of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Symptoms that many children with or without the disorder experience at times. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD these symptoms should be inappropriate for the child's age or developmental level.
It can be difficult to diagnose a child with ADHD. There is no one test doctors can use to diagnose the disorder, and its symptoms are similar to other problems or learning disabilities. Since it is a disorder and not a disease (see Disorder NOT Disease section), blood work, x-rays, or other medical tests can not determine a diagnosis for it. Instead, doctors rely on the presence or absence of symptoms.
The DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) was developed by the American Psychiatric Association to provide mental health examiners help with diagnosing ADHD. It gives doctors a standard for assessing their patients' symptoms. For a free symptoms checklist visit the Symptoms Checklist section.
It can be difficult to diagnose a child with ADHD. There is no one test doctors can use to diagnose the disorder, and its symptoms are similar to other problems or learning disabilities. Since it is a disorder and not a disease (see Disorder NOT Disease section), blood work, x-rays, or other medical tests can not determine a diagnosis for it. Instead, doctors rely on the presence or absence of symptoms.
The DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) was developed by the American Psychiatric Association to provide mental health examiners help with diagnosing ADHD. It gives doctors a standard for assessing their patients' symptoms. For a free symptoms checklist visit the Symptoms Checklist section.
DSM-IV Criteria for ADHD
I. Either A or B:
II. Some symptoms that cause impairment were present before age 7 years.
III. Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g. at school/work and at home).
IV. There must be clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, school, or work functioning.
V. The symptoms do not happen only during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia, or other Psychotic Disorder. The symptoms are not better accounted for by another mental disorder (e.g. Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder).
Based on these criteria, three types of ADHD are identified:
IA. ADHD, Combined Type: if both criteria IA and IB are met for the past 6 months
IB. ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Type: if criterion IA is met but criterion IB is not met for the past six months
IC. ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: if Criterion IB is met but Criterion IA is not met for the past six months.
American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Washington, DC, American Psychiatric Association, 2000
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Adderall vs Strattera
Everyone's body is different, and we have heard many pros and cons for both of these ADHD prescriptions. It's all about finding what works best for you. Please share your experiences in the comment section below.
Adderall Side Effects
Here are some of the most common side effects associated with Adderall. Please note: this is not a comprehensive list, and should be used for informational purposes only.
-Loss of appetite. Somewhere around 80% of people experience a loss of appetite. This may lead to weight loss, or delay of growth in children. Appetite loss is more frequently experienced during the daytime. It is important to schedule dosages at times of day that work best for you. It may help to take the medicine after a meal or snack.
-Difficulty falling asleep
-Stomach aches
-Headaches
-Increase in blood pressure
-Increase in heart rate
-Mood swings
Some of the more severe side effects include:
-Heart complications
-Stroke
-Seizures
-Sudden death
Adderall can also be habit forming and has the potential to be abused. Abuse is commonly experienced by users who do not have ADHD. Watch this FOX News report on the abuse of Adderall on college campuses. http://youtu.be/E0ihO1KFxkQ
Adderall
Adderall is a stimulant drug used to treat patients with ADHD or narcolepsy. Stimulants affect the way your brain controls impulses. They also regulate behavior and attention. Adderall is a mixed salts amphetamine, meaning it contains both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Adderall and other stimulants used for treating ADHD have been approved by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for children age 3 and older. Stimulants may be the most affective way to treat all three symptoms of ADHD (impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity). They are known to dramatically improve behavior within a short time frame. When they are successful, they will usually work long-term without having to increase dosage. Children who use Adderall often become calmer, more organized, and less stubborn.
Adderall is a stimulant drug used to treat patients with ADHD or narcolepsy. Stimulants affect the way your brain controls impulses. They also regulate behavior and attention. Adderall is a mixed salts amphetamine, meaning it contains both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Adderall and other stimulants used for treating ADHD have been approved by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for children age 3 and older. Stimulants may be the most affective way to treat all three symptoms of ADHD (impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity). They are known to dramatically improve behavior within a short time frame. When they are successful, they will usually work long-term without having to increase dosage. Children who use Adderall often become calmer, more organized, and less stubborn.
Adderall Side Effects
Here are some of the most common side effects associated with Adderall. Please note: this is not a comprehensive list, and should be used for informational purposes only.
-Loss of appetite. Somewhere around 80% of people experience a loss of appetite. This may lead to weight loss, or delay of growth in children. Appetite loss is more frequently experienced during the daytime. It is important to schedule dosages at times of day that work best for you. It may help to take the medicine after a meal or snack.
-Difficulty falling asleep
-Stomach aches
-Headaches
-Increase in blood pressure
-Increase in heart rate
-Mood swings
Some of the more severe side effects include:
-Heart complications
-Stroke
-Seizures
-Sudden death
Adderall can also be habit forming and has the potential to be abused. Abuse is commonly experienced by users who do not have ADHD. Watch this FOX News report on the abuse of Adderall on college campuses. http://youtu.be/E0ihO1KFxkQ
Strattera
Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that also has an effect on brain chemistry. It increases the brain's levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, neurotransmitters that are responsible for normal brain function. Increase in these brain chemicals result in increase of attention, and decrease in hyperactivity and impulsivity. Strattera is the first ADHD drug that is not classified as an addictive substance. It has been approved by the FDA for children age 6 and above. One of the nice things about Strattera is that although it takes a few weeks to see results, once it starts working it is effective 24 hours a day. It has also been reported to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in ADHD patients. This could mean taking one pill for multiple symptoms, and eliminating the use of other medications. Some of the other benefits experienced by Strattera users are decrease in bed wetting (for children), and no change in personality (patients who use stimulants for ADHD sometimes experience personality changes).
Strattera Side Effects
Here are some of the more common side effects associated with Strattera. Once again, not comprehensive and for informational purposes only.
For children:
-Decrease in growth rate
-Fatigue or drowsiness
-Mood swings
-Loss of appetite
-Headaches
For adults:
-Abnormal dreams
-Loss of sex drive or impotence
-Hot flashes or chills
-Menstrual or prostate problems
-Headaches
-Weight loss
The Winner?
Ultimately, whatever works best for you is the winner. We have researched scientific studies and user feedback, most of which conclude that Adderall does a better job reducing ADHD symptoms, but Stratterra is safer to use in terms of side effects. There are many published studies out there and we encourage you to do some research yourself, and work with your doctor to find out the best option for you. Pay attention to the sponsor of the survey. It is common for drug companies to pay for surveys that test for variables they know will show favor to their product. Again, your feedback in the comment section below is greatly appreciated.
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Strattera Side Effects
Here are some of the more common side effects associated with Strattera. Once again, not comprehensive and for informational purposes only.
For children:
-Decrease in growth rate
-Fatigue or drowsiness
-Mood swings
-Loss of appetite
-Headaches
For adults:
-Abnormal dreams
-Loss of sex drive or impotence
-Hot flashes or chills
-Menstrual or prostate problems
-Headaches
-Weight loss
The Winner?
Ultimately, whatever works best for you is the winner. We have researched scientific studies and user feedback, most of which conclude that Adderall does a better job reducing ADHD symptoms, but Stratterra is safer to use in terms of side effects. There are many published studies out there and we encourage you to do some research yourself, and work with your doctor to find out the best option for you. Pay attention to the sponsor of the survey. It is common for drug companies to pay for surveys that test for variables they know will show favor to their product. Again, your feedback in the comment section below is greatly appreciated.
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Sharing is Caring
Do you have an inspiring ADHD story or testimonial? Has your ADHD child recently made you laugh out loud? Let us know about it. Send us an email with the words "Sharing is Caring" in the subject box. Your story or testimonial may appear in a future ADHD Project post.
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The History of ADHD
Popular belief says that ADHD is a recently discovered condition. You may be surprised to learn that the history of ADHD dates back to the late 1700s. Since then there have been countless studies on the disorder.
In 1798, Scottish-born physician and author Sir Alexander Crichton wrote about a mental state associated with inattention. He observed problems in school, restlessness, and inability to pay attention at a normal functioning level. He described all the essential features of the inattentive subtype of ADHD. He wrote about a mental restlessness that is onset in the early stages of development, and has a tendency to diminish with age. Crichton also observed children being distracted by sounds that are normally ignored by others. These are all common symptoms we now associate with ADHD.
In 1845, German psychologist Dr. Heinrich Hoffmann wrote a children's story about a boy named "Fidgety Phillip." One of the earliest written descriptions of ADHD. Fidgety Phillip is characterized by his wild behavior. At the dinner table he can't sit still, and his parents express their frustration with his behavior (sound familiar?). In 1902 Dr. Hoffmann published a series of lectures about impulsive behavior in children. He attributed the behavioral problems to genetics, not environment.
In 1885, a Japanese chemist named Nagayoshi Nagal isolated ephedrine from a plant. Its synthetic derivatives are amphetamine and methamphetamine. In 1887, amphetamine was synthesized at the Humboldt University in Berlin by Lazar Edelanu. Amphetamine is used to treat ADHD.
Starting in 1928, benzedrine was marketed in the USA by Smith, Kline, & French in the form of inhalers. Benzedrine is a racemic mixture of amphetamine.
In 1937, Charles Bradley published a landmark article called The Behavior of Children Receiving Benzedrine. In his study he noted spectacular improvement in behavior problem children who were given benzedrine. More positive effects of benzedrine in children were reported by Molitch and Sullivan in 1937.
In 1944, Leandro Pannizon synthesized methylphenidate while working for CIBA. CIBA patented it in 1954 and introduced it in Germany and Switzerland. They called it "Ritaline."
In 1968 the DSM II (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) called the disorder "hyperkinetic reaction of childhood," even though they knew it didn't always include hyperactivity. Then in 1980, the DSM III defined Attention Deficit Disorder, with or without hyperactivity. This is where ADD and ADHD were first distinguished. Inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity were all listed as essential features.
The DSM III received a revision in 1987 resulting in the expiration of the term ADD. In 1994, the DSM IV was published. It recognized three subtypes of ADHD including the predominantly inattentive type (without hyperactivity) formerly called ADD.
Today the DSM IV is used by doctors to diagnose ADHD.
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Celebrities With ADHD
The number of Americans that live with ADHD is somewhere in the ball park of 10 million. Not surprisingly this includes some of our favorite actors, athletes, and artists. Celebrities help show us that when properly treated, those with ADHD can use their enthusiasm and creative energy to their advantage.
Michael Phelps- The USA's olympic star swimmer who is now 25 years old, was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 9. After being diagnosed he was put on medication. He decided to stop taking his meds after two years with the consult of his doctor. Phelps turned to swimming which helped him stay focused. In fact, many children with ADHD find it helpful to participate in competitive sports.
Ty Pennington- Now an upbeat TV personality, Pennington was diagnosed with ADHD as a college student after struggling through school for years. He is now known for his energetic personality and creative talent. To learn about what he is now doing to help others with ADHD check out his interview with ABC News. http://youtu.be/RKdfSqy4NOs
Howie Mandel- We know him as a judge on America's Got Talent, and the host of Deal or No Deal. Howie has struggled with symptoms of ADHD for years. It wasn't until 20 years after he was expelled from high school that he was finally diagnosed. He has since been involved with organizations that help treat the disorder.
Jim Carrey- This comedian and actor used to finish his school assignments quickly then start disrupting the other kids. He is another celebrity that uses the spotlight to bring attention to the disorder. He is a good example of how ADHD symptoms can be used as an advantage through his highly energetic comedic style.
Justin Timberlake- This grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and actor is diagnosed with both ADHD and OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). This challenging combination of disorders hasn't stopped him from having a successful career. His creative energy has helped him produce many hit songs.
It is possible to overcome ADHD and aspire to do many things. These celebrities are a testament to the fact that symptoms associated with the disorder can actually be used as an advantage when properly treated. Celebrities who suffer from ADHD have won gold medals, super bowls, started fortune 500 companies, starred in movies and TV shows, and much more.
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Michael Phelps- The USA's olympic star swimmer who is now 25 years old, was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 9. After being diagnosed he was put on medication. He decided to stop taking his meds after two years with the consult of his doctor. Phelps turned to swimming which helped him stay focused. In fact, many children with ADHD find it helpful to participate in competitive sports.
Ty Pennington- Now an upbeat TV personality, Pennington was diagnosed with ADHD as a college student after struggling through school for years. He is now known for his energetic personality and creative talent. To learn about what he is now doing to help others with ADHD check out his interview with ABC News. http://youtu.be/RKdfSqy4NOs
Howie Mandel- We know him as a judge on America's Got Talent, and the host of Deal or No Deal. Howie has struggled with symptoms of ADHD for years. It wasn't until 20 years after he was expelled from high school that he was finally diagnosed. He has since been involved with organizations that help treat the disorder.
Jim Carrey- This comedian and actor used to finish his school assignments quickly then start disrupting the other kids. He is another celebrity that uses the spotlight to bring attention to the disorder. He is a good example of how ADHD symptoms can be used as an advantage through his highly energetic comedic style.
Justin Timberlake- This grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and actor is diagnosed with both ADHD and OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). This challenging combination of disorders hasn't stopped him from having a successful career. His creative energy has helped him produce many hit songs.
It is possible to overcome ADHD and aspire to do many things. These celebrities are a testament to the fact that symptoms associated with the disorder can actually be used as an advantage when properly treated. Celebrities who suffer from ADHD have won gold medals, super bowls, started fortune 500 companies, starred in movies and TV shows, and much more.
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What is ADHD?
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that affects millions of adults and children worldwide. Those of you who live with it (or with a child that has it), understand that life can be overwhelming at times. We have made it our project to offer you support and treatments that you can easily work in to your busy life.
Basically ADHD is a disorder that causes problems with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Here are some symptoms:
Inattention
-difficulty paying attention to details
-makes careless mistakes when doing schoolwork or other activities
-easily distracted by irrelevant things
-interrupts activities to investigate noises or events that are commonly ignored by others
-difficulty concentrating or finishing paper work
-procrastination
-forgetfulness in daily activities
-has trouble taking turns in conversation or frequently changes the subject
Hyperactivity
-fidgeting or squirming when seated
-frequently getting up from sitting
-restlessness
-running or climbing at inappropriate times
-has difficulty playing quietly
-talking excessively
Impulsivity
-impatience
-blurting out answers out of turn
-difficulty following social rules of conversation
-interrupts or intrudes on others
-starting conversations at inappropriate times
Symptoms may vary with age or developmental stage. The symptoms associated with hyperactivity and impulsivity tend to diminish with age, but inattention has a tendency to hang around into adulthood. As they grow older, some severe cases may experience problems with anxiety or depression.
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Basically ADHD is a disorder that causes problems with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Here are some symptoms:
Inattention
-difficulty paying attention to details
-makes careless mistakes when doing schoolwork or other activities
-easily distracted by irrelevant things
-interrupts activities to investigate noises or events that are commonly ignored by others
-difficulty concentrating or finishing paper work
-procrastination
-forgetfulness in daily activities
-has trouble taking turns in conversation or frequently changes the subject
Hyperactivity
-fidgeting or squirming when seated
-frequently getting up from sitting
-restlessness
-running or climbing at inappropriate times
-has difficulty playing quietly
-talking excessively
Impulsivity
-impatience
-blurting out answers out of turn
-difficulty following social rules of conversation
-interrupts or intrudes on others
-starting conversations at inappropriate times
Symptoms may vary with age or developmental stage. The symptoms associated with hyperactivity and impulsivity tend to diminish with age, but inattention has a tendency to hang around into adulthood. As they grow older, some severe cases may experience problems with anxiety or depression.
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