Treatment of ADHD

Research Highlights

The Council on Scientific Affairs of the American Medical Association has noted that "ADHD is one of the most extensively researched disorders in the field of medicine, with a wealth of data supporting its validity that surpasses many other medical conditions. Over the span of a decade, from 1996 to 2006, there were more than 5,000 medical studies conducted on ADHD and its treatments, consistently demonstrating the impressive effectiveness of the medication known as methylphenidate (commonly recognized as Ritalin*)". Given its high efficacy and minimal side effects, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has recommended methylphenidate as the primary treatment for ADHD in the majority of cases. Drawing from my personal experience, I found that medication yielded significantly improved results in addressing the core symptoms of ADHD when compared to behavioral therapy alone. However, a combination of medication and behavioral therapy offered me the most effective treatment.

* It's worth noting that Ritalin typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes to start working and is excreted from the body in the urine within 3 to 5 hours, necessitating 2-3 doses a day to support daily learning needs. Given this limitation, my doctor in Hong Kong recommended Concerta as an alternative. While it's another brand of methylphenidate, its effect lasts for a full 12 hours.

My Journey with Mediation

As mentioned earlier, psychiatrists typically prescribe Ritalin as the primary treatment for ADHD. However, my daddy and I requested Concerta, another brand of methylphenidate known for its 12-hour efficacy (compared to Ritalin's 4 hours). This extended duration aligns better with my daily educational requirements, allowing me to maintain focus. It's akin to being a nearsighted student finally donning a pair of glasses ----- I can concentrate more effectively.

Improvements in My Life

School

I've noticed that I'm getting better at listening, remembering stuff, and starting my tasks. I make fewer mistakes, and even my handwriting is neater. I'm also getting the hang of planning things and keeping my school stuff organized, which means less hassle.

Family

Things are looking up at home too. My family is happier, and they don't feel like I'm ignoring them as much. We're talking more, and it's easier for my parents to help me out, which has made our relationship better.

Friendships

I've become more attentive to my friends. I don't jump into things impulsively anymore, and I'm trying to be more considerate of their feelings. I'm not just brushing them off.

Me

I'm causing fewer accidents because I'm less impulsive. Over time, I'm feeling more confident and getting better at understanding myself. My communication skills are improving, and I'm getting better at setting my priorities. I'm doing well in different parts of my life, like school, family, and just being me. I'm more productive, organized with my time and money, and I'm just happier overall.

Managing Side Effects Creatively

I often lose my appetite during the day, and my parents worry that I'm not eating enough. However, when the medication wears off, I become extremely hungry and eat a lot. To address this, I've started having a substantial breakfast before taking my medication and having a light meal between dinner and bedtime.

Sometimes, I struggle to fall asleep, leading to delayed bedtimes. To counter this, I've adjusted my routine by taking my medication as early as possible in the morning, allowing more time to pass before bedtime.