One of the more commonly known treatment options is the use of medications. This includes medications like Ritalin. These are considered stimulants. Stimulant are said to “enhance nerve-to-nerve communication by making more neurotransmitters available to boost the ‘signal’ between neurons” (Reif 36). This is essentially aiding the brain to process with higher quality and efficiency. The second category of medications includes antidepressants. Depression, among other conditions may appear to coexist, or the child may show certain symptoms of both depression and ADHD. It has also been shown that the use of antidepressants has been quite competent in the treatment of ADHD (Schlozman 30). Unfortunately, medications are not always a fix-all, and there can be side effects and/or complications. Plus, there is always the chance of an issue where medication alone is not enough. In an article from Parks and Recreation, Lullo cites a study from 2005 that claims, “Although research seems to show benefits of CNS stimulant medication, there is some opposition and resistance to the use of this medication because of common complications including suppression of growth, insomnia, decreased appetite, depressed mood, abdominal pain, tachycardia and drug dependence” (22). Some of those issues, like depressed mood or drug dependence can lead to more. In fact, there may even be a …show more content…
This can be used on its own, or in additions with other treatments such as medications. “According to a release from the CDC, the data show that 1 in 2 preschoolers age 4-5 with ADHD received behavioral therapy and about 1 in 2 were taking medication for ADHD. Almost 1 in 4 preschoolers were treated with medication alone. Among children ages 6-17 with ADHD, fewer than 1 in 3 received both medication and behavioral therapy” (CDC Brings out Study 1). Behavioral therapies work in ways to which they help children develop methods and actions that they can use throughout life to aid in organization, positive behaviors, and basic life skills needed to succeed (Miller 1). Within the spectrum of behavioral therapies, there are several types to ultimately choose from. For example, some may be focused on consequences. These may be positive reinforcements, or negative reinforcements, or both combined. With either action taken, rewards must be well thought out and planned. “Although both positive and negative consequences are important in modifying behavior in children with ADHD, positive reinforcement in the form of positive and powerful rewards, should be initially be provided in order to reinforce the desired behavior” (Shillingford-Butler 241). It has also been shown that the use of behavioral therapies may decrease the use of medications as treatments. Sherry Boschert cites a study in the