Do you notice your child being frequently forgetful, having trouble concentrating, and having difficulty sitting still and paying attention? While these symptoms may seem normal for a child initially, continuing to show these behaviors could indicate a mental health disorder. Children with Garland ADHD have disrupted thinking and exhibit destructive behaviors. Without treatment, your child may have an affected performance at school and have difficulty maintaining relationships. While no treatment can cure ADHD, your doctor can recommend different treatments to help relieve their symptoms. Here are five such treatments your doctor may recommend.
Stimulant Medications
Your doctor may recommend stimulant drugs to balance and boost neurotransmitter levels, thus improving hyperactivity symptoms in your child. Stimulant medications can include amphetamines and methylphenidates in long-acting and short-acting forms. During treatment, your doctor will find the right dose for your child and then administer it. Your child may need adjustment if they develop significant side effects as they mature.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Your doctor can recommend psychotherapy for your child to help them learn behavior change to improve their symptoms. Your child may have ADHD alongside depression and anxiety disorder which may require counseling to help them cope. Cognitive behavior therapy will teach your child new behaviors to help them concentrate, sit still and develop organizational skills. Your child will also learn new ways of dealing with disruptive symptoms. During cognitive behavior therapy, you can also include family therapy to help you deal with the stress of living with a child with ADHD.
Dietary Changes
You may need to change your child’s diet to eliminate foods that may increase hyperactivity. You can reduce sugar, milk, wheat, common allergens, and eggs. Your child may also need to avoid additives and artificial food colorings, especially if your child has food sensitivity issues. However, you may need to watch your child and learn what to eliminate from their diet because dieting will work differently for every child.
Regular Exercise and Meditation
You can engage your child in regular physical activity to help improve their symptoms. You can also include yoga, relaxation techniques, and meditation to help your child relax, which will help manage their symptoms. As your child continues participating in regular exercise, they will learn discipline.
Home Remedies
You can also follow a few suggestions to help create a successful living environment for your child. First, show your child affection to make them feel appreciated and loved while improving their self-esteem and confidence. Secondly, speak quietly and slowly, so your child concentrates when you are giving directions. Also, try maintaining a regular schedule for bedtime and meals because children with ADHD may have difficulty adjusting to change. Lastly, adopt healthy lifestyle habits to ensure your child is not tired, which may worsen ADHD symptoms.
ADHD usually exhibits symptoms early in childhood and, in some cases, develops into adulthood. You will notice your child having difficulty focusing on one thing, controlling their behaviors, and mostly acting on impulse. Failing to seek treatment may negatively impact your child’s ability to maintain relationships at school and work. With treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes, your child will have an improved social life. Your doctor will also recommend support groups to help you learn how to live with your child as you deal with their ADHD symptoms.