Having ADHD can affect every part of your teen son’s life, and you’re probably wondering the best way to help him. When it comes to treatment for ADHD, there are so many options to explore, it can be overwhelming.
The best way to approach ADHD treatment is with a holistic mindset. Your teen son may need more than one type of treatment to experience success. Let’s go over the different ADHD treatments and how they can help your son.
What Are the Treatment Options for ADHD?
There’s no definitive treatment for people who have ADHD. Everyone is different and will need a unique and personal approach to treating their disorder. The goal is to find the best combination of treatment options so your teen son can be successful in life.
Therapy
ADHD often comes with a wide range of symptoms that vary from person to person. Some people may struggle with organization, while others may experience impulse control. Behavioral therapy focuses on giving your teen son concrete strategies to manage his particular ADHD symptoms.
Behavioral treatments can include helping your son with:
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Communication and listening skills
- Fostering positive relationships and social skills
- Nurturing concentration and establishing routines
Parents play an active role in successful behavioral therapy. With the help of a mental health professional, you can learn different ways to interact with your son that encourage positive behaviors and discourage challenging ones.
Medications
There are many different medications for ADHD, all of which require a prescription. These medications focus on balancing out certain brain chemicals, and the type of medication prescribed will depend on your son’s particular symptoms and struggles.
There are two categories of ADHD medications: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants typically start working immediately after they’re taken. They’re used to help teens become more alert and focused and to reduce hyperactivity.
These medications include methylphenidate and amphetamine, which are controlled substances. Since these medications can be abused, they’re highly regulated by the USDA.
Non-stimulants often take up to several weeks to have an effect and include atomoxetine and viloxazine. They focus on boosting a neurotransmitter to create better communication between nerves and the brain.
As with any medication, there are always potential risks and side effects. Finding the right medication sometimes requires trying something for a period of time to see what works best. When considering medications for ADHD, always follow the guidance of your medical professional.
Learn About Personalized Treatment Options for ADHD
If your teen son has ADHD, it’s best to take a holistic approach. At Lakeside Academy, our compassionate approach includes therapy, interactive programming, teaching self-advocacy and non-addictive medications. With a dedicated staff, we help your teen son learn everything from basic life skills to behavior management.
To learn more about our programs and success stories, call us at 844-768-8336 or send us a message today.