Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder defined by symptoms of inattentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactiveness. According to the National Insitute of Mental Health (NIMH), 4-9% of children have ADHD, and a significant percentage deal with these symptoms throughout their lives.
ADHD is considered a lifelong condition. However, the symptoms caused by it might change as the individual ages. Many people manage to develop resistance and mechanisms to deal with their symptoms effectively. Let us understand the available options for treatment for ADHD and explore whether or not a cure for the condition is possible.
Is there a cure for ADHD?
Currently, there exists no cure for ADHD. However, there are several treatment options available that allow individuals to manage their symptoms successfully. Cure and treatment are two words often used interchangeably. Let us first understand the difference between the two terms before heading toward treatments for ADHD.
Cure vs. Treatment
When we say an illness is cured, it means that it is completely treated and will never return. Malaria, jaundice, etc., are names of a few diseases for which cure is available.
Then there are some diseases that can’t be cured, like diabetes. Once you have diabetes, you will have to live with the condition for the rest of your life. However, even a lifelong illness like diabetes can be treated effectively. Those with diabetes who seek help, take their medications, and make lifestyle changes manage to live healthy lives.
ADHD behaves the same way. There is no perfect magical cure for it. However, there exists a wide array of effective treatments for dealing with the condition. People with ADHD manage to recover well and live a healthy life through these treatments.
Treatment for ADHD
1. Counseling and Therapies
Individuals with ADHD often benefit from counseling sessions and therapy. The most common types of therapy and counseling include:
- Behavioral therapy: Individuals learn different behavior-altering strategies and coping techniques to deal with their symptoms.
- Psychotherapy: Individuals consult psychiatrists to identify specific coping mechanisms, discuss their issues, and deal with negative thought patterns.
- Social Skills Training: Individuals learn appropriate social skills through this type of therapy.
- Family therapy: This therapy helps spouses, parents, or other family members manage and deal with the stress of living with someone with ADHD.
Read more: Signs That You Are Not Taking Care Of Your Mental Health
2. Medications
Medications can also help effectively deal with different symptoms of ADHD. Medical experts don’t identify a particular drug type to be used as a treatment for ADHD. As per Mayo Clinic, two main types of medications used for ADHD, namely:
- Stimulant Drugs: These medicines effectively boost the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. They help improve the symptoms of hyperactivity and inattentiveness in a short period of time.
- Non-stimulant Drugs: These are drugs used additionally along with stimulant drugs.
Disclaimer: The above-suggested medications should only be used after proper diagnosis and discussion with professionals. Unregulated use can be life-threatening.
Read more: 7 ADHD Fidget Toys To Boost Productivity.
Conclusion:
ADHD is a prolonged behavioral disorder. While a cure for the condition hasn’t been found, specific treatment options, including medications, behavioral therapy, and social skills training, are effective.
Therapy is a powerful solution for managing ADHD. The advent of online therapy platforms has brought the benefits of therapy right into your living room. To know more about affordable and accessible online therapy platforms, click here.
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