ADD & ADHD Treatment
Some clients with ADHD primarily have the inattentive type, some the hyperactive-impulsive type, and some the combined type. For our purposes here, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be said to encompass attention deficit disorder (ADD), so we can call this disorder “ADHD.” Morningside Recovery treats ADHD (co-occurring or not) with education, psychotherapy and medication. The clinical staff review current medications (if any) and help the client get the correct medication and dosage. Any existing medication schedules are reviewed by Morningside staff and any adjustments to medications are supervised by a doctor. Dosage and timing may need to be adjusted for the client to maximize control of ADHD symptoms while minimizing potential side effects. Frequently, clients seek to discontinue medication.
Recent research suggests that genetic abnormalities may prevent the client with ADHD from metabolizing key neurotransmitters in normal ways. However, no specific brain issue has been pinpointed that could account for ADHD, which means there is probably no single medication that can correct the problem. For example, stimulant drugs like dexamphetamine and methylphenidate (Ritalin) work by acting on the neurotransmitters that release the chemical dopamine.
Dexamphetamine and methylphenidate are different in their chemical makeup and effects, but they basically increase dopamine in the brain, which curbs hyperactive and impulsive behaviors typical of individuals with ADHD. The calming effect of these medications is rapidly apparent after taking them, and obviously abuse of these medications is a serious problem for individuals with co-occurring disorders. Treatment for co-occurring ADHD can be complex because medications such as Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine (Adderall), Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride (Focalin), and Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, Dextrostat) are such powerful stimulants. The drug Atomoxetine (Strattera) may be as effective as stimulants, and is less likely to be misused. Extended-release forms of medication may be prescribed for stabilizing ADHD clients, or an antidepressant such as venlafaxine (Effexor) can be useful for its effect on the brain chemical norepinephrine.
Morningside treatment offers more than medication of symptoms. For ADHD, individual and group therapy help a person relax and gain strategies for coping with their disorder. Therapy is more than just a client sharing about their problems. The therapy is a process of working together to improve coping with the things happening in the real world. At Morningside, it’s about changing behaviors and finding solutions. Therapists give clients homework between meetings. These exercises are designed to get clients thinking about their ADHD. For example, homework might include making a list of situations in their daily lives that give them trouble.
Morningside uses a comprehensive, integrative approach that views each client as unique and distinctive. For example, therapists at Morningside might have clients develop a routine that includes tools such as a calendar or appointment book, lists, Post-it notes, and by assigning a special place for paperwork. Large tasks are broken down into more manageable, smaller steps so that completing each part of the task provides a sense of accomplishment. This process will build a skill-set that offers hope of long-term recovery rather than temporary symptom relief that might be achieved by medications alone. Therapists will help clients with ADHD learn how to organize their life by developing the necessary skill sets.
The practice of multiple medications to mask the symptoms of ADHD is avoided at Morningside Recovery. Psychotherapy with the appropriate medication and dosage can help change a client’s approach to life by getting them to examine their own behaviors and outcomes. Treatment at Morningside Recovery encourages clients with ADHD to adjust to the life changes that come with treatment. Clients often say it’s all about looking at things in a new way.
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