As we mentioned in our previous posts: the main issue that those with ADHD have is with dopamine. Which ought to serve as a mediator between the two neural systems

Treatment of ADHD involves both pharmacological and also behavioural approach.

Not withstanding, there is a possibility of ADHD resolving without the need for medication  as a person grows older

The pharmacological intervention involves mainly two class of drugs. Namely:
1. Methylphenidate(e.g Ritalin) and its derivative
2. Amphetamine and its derivatives

All these help to increase the amount of dopamine in the task directed neural network and has been shown to increase their focus.

Adderal on the other hand is a combination of both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.

However studies have shown that these drugs are taken illegally by mostly youths(that have not been clinically diagnosed with ADHD) to increase their focus at work and study and to also Improve their function in their daily lives.

It is important to also note that there is virtue in treating ADHD early.

Behavioural changes:

1. Diet: studies have shown that reducing the intake of sugar amongst those with ADHD has dramatic effect in limiting the disorder.
2. Giving clear instructions to those with ADHD also helps
3. Meditation: meditating for about 17minutes daily is believed to significantly improve attention and focus in people with ADHD

4. Getting enough sleep.

Others: taking of omega 3 fatty acid supplements has been shown to impact focus and mood

As we round up our discussion on ADHD I would like to share an interesting study that was done about smartphone usage:

A study was carried out in 2014, that explained smartphone use at a time; they called it mobile phone use and inattention in 7102 adolescents Cross sectional study; in order to avoid decrease in attentional capacity-adolescents needed to use their smartphone for less than 60mins per day in other to stay focused and centred.

While for Adults it was estimated to be about 2hours to prevent severe attentional deficits.

I will end on that note.

 

Thank you for following this series.

 

Please if any of the information shared is consistent with what you are experiencing and it is impeding your quality of life: do not hesitate to reach out to a psychiatrist for proper evaluation.

 

References:

As stated in previous posts