ADHD Testing and Assessment Sydney - Treatment of ADHD

How is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) treated?

The treatment for ADHD varies, based on individual child characteristics and severity of presenting symptoms. Contrary to popular beliefs, medication is not the only (or the most successful) treatment method.

In the following sections we outline treatment methods that are proven to work for children with ADHD. For the best outcome, it is suggested that

Prescribed medications for ADHD belong to the group of medicine called "stimulants". These are either methylphenidate or dexamphetamine, such as Ritalin, Concerta or Strattera. It is important that children taking stimulants are regularly monitored by a family doctor or a paediatrician.

In most cases of ADHD, medication is NOT a long-term or life long solution. Research shows that due to neurological changes in the brain during adolescence, many children with ADHD completely "grow out" of their condition or the severity of symptoms significantly subsides.

Children with ADHD can learn to regulate their behaviour. In fact, medication without behavioural interventions often produces limited outcomes.

Behavioural interventions generally aimed at teaching children to 1) identify problem behaviour, 2) stop and think about consequences, 3) select alternative behaviours, and 4) implement alternative strategies.

Reducing attentional difficulties for children with ADHD requires a concentrated effort that includes the child's home and school environments. There are many different strategies that parents and teachers can use to improve children's ability to sustain their attention.

Attention training usually involves teaching children to use self-commands, focusing strategies and to rely on external (often visual) aids. "Alertness training" teaches children to become aware of their level of awareness, to identify difficult situations (triggers), and to use self-calming strategies to remain calm.

Parenting a child with ADHD can be a difficult and challenging task. Parents can differ in their approach to parenting, ranging from harsh discipline to permissive attitudes. Difficult behaviour and parental differences can also lead to marital discomfort, negatively impacting upon a child's behaviour.

Family therapy (or counselling) can help identifying parental differences and environmental factors that could worsen the symptoms of ADHD for children. Consistency and a calm home environment are key factors in successfully treating children with ADHD. Family counselling provides stregies for parents to deal with differences, to remain calm is difficult situations and essential parenting strategies to change their children's behaviour.