Individuals diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might have difficulty concentrating on various tasks and completing their work on time. The good news is that there have been a lot of new developments in the treatment of this condition over the years. The physicians at Emerald City Medical Arts, a family clinic in Seattle, WA, share some of the different treatment options available for people living with ADHD.

Medication

Many people with ADHD see an improvement in their symptoms after taking medications. Stimulants, such as Ritalin^® and Adderall^®, are some of the most common medicines used to treat this condition and work by increasing the dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is a chemical associated with attention, motivation, and pleasure. People with ADHD can feel more focused and less impulsive when they take stimulant medications.

Like with most other medications, stimulants do come with potential side effects, like difficulty sleeping, irritability, loss of appetite, restlessness, and headaches. A doctor from a family clinic will prescribe the lowest dose to minimize these effects as much as possible.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy is also widely used to treat ADHD symptoms and involves targeting maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. During therapy sessions, a psychologist will help patients identify their main life challenges and develop coping skills to deal with them. For example, if a patient has trouble getting to places on time, a psychologist might suggest wearing a watch and putting several clocks around the house. Therapy sessions for ADHD are usually once a week, and many patients see improvements after 10 to 12 treatments.

If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, you can still live a normal life. The doctors at Emerald City Medical Arts specialize in ADHD treatments and can help you find one that suits you best. They are compassionate toward all of their patients and want to help them improve their lives. The family clinic provides many other services, including laser hair removal and addiction treatment. To schedule an appointment, call (206) 281-1616 today, or visit their website to learn more about their services.