ADHD Parenting Tip - Medication is Not a One Size Fits All Approach For Treating ADHD

Most parents I talk with are dead set against putting their child on medication to treat ADHD. Yet, major medical associations, organizations, and advocacy groups tell us that medication (in combination with therapy) is the most effective method to treat ADHD.

What's the problem then?

First and foremost, I am not hear to advocate for or against the use of medication to treat symptoms of ADHD. I have learned that using medication is a very individual and personal decision, and I work with clients and families on both sides of the debate.

That being said, as someone passionate about supporting children and families affected by ADHD, it is important to at least address some of the critical topics you need to know about medications.

First and foremost, I feel obligated to say that ADHD medications do not cure an individual from their symptoms. I don't know how many people are actually told this, but it should be the first thing they are told. Instead, ADHD medications relieve symptoms so an individual can focus on the important tasks and not be as easily distracted.

One Size Does Not Fit All

The Right Type Of Medication

There are two main types of medication to treat ADHD. The most common known type are the stimulant medications like Ritalin, Adderall, and Straterra. The second type is the non-stimulant family, which includes Straterra. I'm not going to get into the differences right now, but I bring them up because prescribing physicians need to first figure out which one to use on an individual basis.

The Right Dose Of Medication

On top of figuring out the right type of medication, physicians also need to determine the appropriate dose of medication. Will they prescribe a long-lasting medication? Will it be short-acting? There's a lot to figure out. I am sharing this because it could take time.

What Are You Treating?

Here's something that still frustrates me to this day. Not a lot of parents are being told how complex ADHD is as a condition, as well as it is a diagnosis to make. Symptoms of ADHD can be mimicked by many other conditions and stressors. Not only that, ADHD very rarely exists alone. In other words, someone with ADHD might also be struggling with anxiety or depression.

Bottom Line? ADHD is an incredibly complex condition that so many people simply don't understand. The success you find all depends on the information you have access to, and I'd like to make sure you get access to information that will make a difference. Click here to sign up for your ADHD Essentials Audio Kit today, and you'll get immediate access to the information and strategies that will make a difference today.