With An ADHD Specialist Michigan Patients Can Gain Control Over Life

By Angela Thompson


Attention Deficit Disorder, commonly called ADD, has only recently been acknowledged as a bona fide medical condition that can be treated and managed. Even now, however, people still treat sufferers as lazy, stupid, willful, disruptive and rude individuals. As a result, many sufferers suffer from concomitant conditions such as depression and high levels of anxiety. Thankfully, with assistance from an ADHD specialist Michigan patients can learn to manage their conditions and to live full and rewarding lives.

The symptoms of ADD manifest differently from one patient to the next but there are a few that should alert parents and loved ones. Patients often withdraw from all forms of social interaction and they find it very difficult to concentrate on a single task or activity for any period of time. A lot of patients tend to prattle on incessantly. Most patients also find it very difficult to relate new information with their existing knowledge base.

It is a common misconception that ADD can best be treated with prescription drugs like Ritalin. This is definitely not the case. These drugs only address a very small portion of the symptoms commonly experienced by patients. They often have very nasty side effects and they may even pose a real health risk. Drugs do help some patients but they can never be the entire extent of a proper treatment regime.

There is no cure for ADD. Treatment therefore focuses on teaching the patient to cope with the conditions and to manage their own symptoms and the effect that they have upon their lives. Treatment always involves a strong element that focuses on exercise. Exercise is one of the best ways in which to get rid of aggression and it tends to help patients to improve their attention spans.

Good quality sleep is also part of the treatment plan for ADD patients. Many of them suffer from insomnia and they never enjoy a proper rest. They are therefore advised to established fixed routines by going to bed at night and getting up at the morning at the same times. The room needs to be quiet and there must be no light, not even a night light or an indicator from a device charger.

ADD specialists also emphasize the importance of a sensible diet. Many ADD patients eat little or nothing for days and then they binge on food not good for them. Therapists encourage them to rather eat at least six smaller meals each day. Every meal should include protein, omega acids and fresh fruit and vegetables. This will help maintain their energy levels. Sugar and alcohol should be avoided at all times.

ADD patients have to live with the condition all their lives. That is why most of them need counselling. Trained therapists can teach them more about their condition and they can equip them with techniques and strategies to deal with the symptoms when they occur. Group sessions also help patients to become more socially adept and it gives them a chance to voice their frustrations.

There may be no cure for ADD but it is a condition that can be managed. Patients need to be disciplined, however, and adhere to their treatment programs at all times. If they do, there is no reason why they cannot live full and satisfying lives.




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