ADD/ADHD Therapy
Attention-deficit Disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder are chronic conditions that begin in the early stages of childhood and can persist into adulthood. Common treatments for ADD and ADHD include medication and counseling. Therapy is a common way to help children and adults who struggle with many unique options depending on their situation.
ADD/ADHD Therapy
Attention-deficit Disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder are chronic conditions that begin in the early stages of childhood and can persist into adulthood. Common treatments for ADD and ADHD include medication and counseling. Therapy is a common way to help children and adults who struggle with many unique options depending on their situation.
Introduction
What does ADD & ADHD Therapy look like?
History of ADD & ADHD
In 1798, a Scottish doctor named Sir Alexander Crichton noticed that some children were more easily distracted than others in the same activities. He began to create reports and analyze his findings. He noticed that these symptoms began in the early development stages of life.
The first form of medication for ADHD was recorded in 1937 by Charles Bradley at a hospital in East Providence, RI. He found that the stimulant called Benzedrine (Which had been approved by the FDA just a year prior in ’36) caused some children to behave better and improved their standings in school.
The most prescribed drug today for ADHD is Ritalin, otherwise known as methylphenidate. Created in 1944 and marketed in 1954 as Ritalin.
More than 5 million children in the U.S. are now diagnosed with ADHD. With boys making up twice as many cases as girls. The rates of kids between the ages of 4 to 17 have seen an increase of 5% per year from 2003 to 2011. This rise can be linked to the criteria now required to classify ADHD in an individual. ADHD has also grown in terms of recognition and awareness, leading to more parents and caregivers getting their children tested and brought in front of a doctor. The growing rate is due to a lack of diagnosis before the 21st century and a more vital awareness today.
About 5% of U.S. adults are now reported to have ADHD, with a majority of them being men.
ADD & ADHD Symptoms
- Inability to sit still
- Struggle to focus on school work or basic tasks
- Failing to follow directions
- Appear disengaged
- Lose items easily
What does AD & ADHD therapy look like?
The severity of the disorder can affect the level of treatment required. Typically, for adults, medication and counseling are the most common forms of treatment and will help manage the symptoms but will not cure them entirely. Treatments for children are similar, with medications and counseling available. Some refer to a parent training program for behavior management because the primary caregiver needs to understand better how you can help.
Finding the right fit for therapy is crucial. It is essential to be comfortable; for some, that could be one-on-one with a trusted therapist. Others seek out group therapy sessions to hear from others going through the same thing.
Treatments for ADD & ADHD
The treatment for ADD & ADHD involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the mental and physical challenges experienced by the individual. It typically includes therapeutic interventions for the child and support for their caregivers. Here are some standard treatment approaches for ADD & ADHD:
Play Therapy: Play therapy is beneficial for younger children. It allows them to express themselves and work through emotional issues using play and creative activities.
ADHD Coaching: ADHD Coaches help set goals and offer daily encouragement and training to help their patient focus throughout the day.
Narrative Therapy: This therapy aims to emphasize the problem as the disorder and not the individual. Many struggle with believing they are the problem, but highlighting that ADHD is the culprit helps their outlook change. They are proving to yield positive results.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy: This form of therapy helps an individual accept the differences in their life and how they can better control them moving forward. This is done by improving their mindfulness, emotional regulation, and impulsivity.
Parenting Support and Education: Caregivers often need guidance on responding appropriately to their child’s attention disorders. Parenting support and education can help caregivers develop effective strategies for nurturing and responding to the child’s needs.
Interpersonal Therapy: Allows for processing of emotions and addresses conflicts that an individual may have had with others as a result of ADHD.
Supportive Psychotherapy: Supportive psychotherapy is very patient-driven and communicates how better to control anxiety, focus, and other issues. They are optimizing coping skills to develop effective strategies.
Social Skills Training: For children with attachment disorders, social skills training can help them learn appropriate ways of interacting with others and understanding social cues.
Group Therapy: Group therapy helps ADHD learn and hear from others experiencing the same symptoms and experiences.
Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms related to mood, anxiety, attention, and focus.
Caregivers and mental health professionals need to work collaboratively in the treatment of attachment disorders. Early intervention and a consistent, supportive environment are crucial in helping children with attachment difficulties form healthier attachments and develop more positive relationships with others. The treatment approach will vary based on the child’s specific needs, age, and severity of the attachment disorder.
Our Team
The NorthStar Regional team is dedicated to assisting your child and family. Our team engages in open conversations with you to determine the best strategies for overcoming these challenges. Let us guide you through treating and managing ADHD in your, or your child’s, life.
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