Immersive virtual reality-based interventions (VR) can improve cognitive deficits associated with ADHD in children, according to a study published in 2023 in the journal Virtual Reality. Compared to active and passive control groups, children with ADHD experienced positive outcomes with large effect sizes global cognitive functioning, attention, and memory when using immersive VR therapies.¹

In a meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 149 participants were assigned to the immersive VR group and 172 participants to the control group. The study found a significant difference in performance outcomes for attention (g = 0.94) and global cognition (g = 1.06) in favor of the immersive VR group. Only one RCT assessed for memory outcomes, but as with attention and global cognition, the VR group showed a significant advantage (g = 1.81). Improvements were greater for children who were not otherwise treated for ADHD.

Efficacy of Immersive VR

Virtual reality is increasingly used in healthcare, and evaluations by clinicians have been positive. ^{2, 3} Patients say that brain training — an umbrella term used to describe cognitive tools like VR — is effective at improving ADHD symptoms. In a 2024 treatment survey conducted by ADDitude, brain training ranked in the top three most effective ADHD treatment options according to caregivers and adults with ADHD.

XRHealth is the maker of one commercially available VR therapy for ADHD. “Applications for kids with ADHD include a boxing-like game in which players choose which stimuli to punch, which to avoid, and what distractions to ignore,” said Randy Kulman, Ph.D., in “A User’s Guide to Digital Therapeutics for ADHD.”

VR-based interventions may also be useful in the classroom, according to the researchers. “Given the positive association between global cognitive functioning and academic performance, and social functioning, VR-based interventions may benefit the daily life of children with ADHD in terms of school performance and peer relations.”

Yet, brain training was also one of the least utilized treatment options used by ADDitude survey respondents. Out of more than 12,000 respondents, only 6% of caregivers and adults reported having used it to treat ADHD for their child or personally. Lack of personalization to patient needs, treatment goals, and knowledge on the added value of VR have been cited as barriers to implementation.³Access to providers who have experience treating ADHD was the biggest overall barrier to care, according to survey respondents.

Potential Moderators

Researchers performed a second meta-analysis to identify potential moderators of the effect size of global cognitive functioning, for which there was significant substantial heterogeneity (I² = 71.23%). Improvements in global cognition were observed across all participant ages and intervention durations, regardless of diagnostic status (formal vs. informal), novelty of headsets (new vs. old), or control group intervention (passive vs. active). The study did not assess for moderators of attention alone, for which heterogeneity was also significant (I² = 68.26%).

The significance of moderators on immersive VR-based outcomes are mixed. Research has shown that longer interventions, younger participants, and passive control groups may lead to different outcomes, the researchers noted. Follow-up measurements could help “assess the long-term effects of VR interventions and whether improvements made on cognitive functioning outcomes from baseline to post-intervention are maintained after the intervention has ceased.”

Limitations and Future Research

The systematic review and meta-analysis was the first to address treatment adherence and safety of immersive VR in improving cognitive deficits in children with ADHD. Compared to control groups, drop-out rates were similar across groups, and there were no adverse effects. Researchers concluded that immersive VR “is feasible in terms of treatment adherence and a safe cognitive rehabilitation tool.”

A rigorous literature search was conducted for the current study according to PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook, and improvements were observed even after correcting for publication bias. However, of the limited studies that were included, all were judged to have an unclear risk of bias based on randomization and selective reporting. Results should be interpreted cautiously.

Control group interventions included non-immersive VR, medication, psychotherapy, cognitive training, neurofeedback, hemoencephalographic biofeedback, being placed on a waiting list, or no treatment. Head-mounted displays were required to be considered an immersive VR-based intervention.

Learn about the current state of affairs in implementing VR technology in healthcare here.

Sources

¹Corrigan, N., Păsărelu, C.R., & Voinescu, A. (2023). Immersive virtual reality for improving cognitive deficits in children with ADHD: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Virtual Reality, 1-20. doi:10.1007/s10055-023-00768-1.

²Zangiacomi, A., Flori, V., Greci, L., Scaglione, A., Arlati, S., & Bernardelli, G. (2022). an immersive virtual reality-based application for treating ADHD: A remote evaluation of acceptance and usability. Digital Health, 8. doi:10.1177/20552076221143242

³Kouijzer, M., Kip, H., Bouman, Y., Kelders, S. (2023). Implementation of virtual reality in healthcare: a scoping review on the implementation process of virtual reality in various healthcare settings. Implement Sci Commun, 4(1):67. doi: 10.1186/s43058-023-00442-2.

Adults and caregivers reported that the process of searching for the right medication — the one with highest efficacy, fewest side effects, and covered by insurance — is often frustrating, but essential. Persevering through the often confusing, time-consuming, and inconvenient process leads to better management of ADHD symptoms in the end for most. Here, ADDitude readers share their experiences, both the bothers and benefits of trialing medications.

“There was one person in an ADHD support group who made a comment that changed my life. She mentioned that the seventh medication she tried was the right one for her. That made me decide to give medication a second chance, and try a few more. I could not have finished my Ph.D. without it.” — Heather, Canada

“Trial and error is generally a nightmare. School is not the best place to observe how a new med is or isn’t working; teachers usually don’t have the time, energy, or patience to report back accurately. We also had to change formulations several times due to the whims of insurance.” — An ADDitude Reader

“There are not enough resources to help people navigate going on and off medications while trialing. How long should I be on it? What about side effects? How does this relate to hormone changes throughout the month for women?” — Madeline, UK

[Download: Free Guide to Hormones & ADHD in Women]

“Medication trials have taken so long because our doctors are scared to do anything. It’s something that should be done quickly to find the optimal dose but they keep us in limbo because they’re not confident in their ADHD knowledge. We’re having to wait and wait and wait while our kids are struggling. It has a ripple effect on our entire household.” — An ADDitude Reader

“The process of trying out one medication after another slowly and methodically is very difficult to manage for most people who have ADHD.” — Tyler, California

“It was 10 years before I found a medication that helped me more than it made me feel worse. It’s important to kick a medication if it’s not working, even if it has worked previously.” — Juniper, Oregon

[Read: The ADHD Medication Stopped Working! How to Troubleshoot Treatment]

“Trial and error is hard. Then you find a medication that works and the manufacturer stops making it or the generic version, and you have to start the whole process again. So frustrating.” — An ADDitude Reader

“Finding the right match for children takes time and clear communication with schools and caregivers, which is sometimes very difficult.” — An ADDitude Reader

“I don’t feel that I have found the right medication yet. I’m very sensitive to medication and side effects also make it difficult to try different ones.” — An ADDitude Reader

“I have a really hard time tracking my symptoms and noticing changes on my own.” — Ashley, Minnesota

“The process of finding the right one can be very frustrating, but it’s worth being patient.” — Ali, North Carolina

“I wish there were easier ways to find the right medications for people with ADHD rather than trial and error.” — An ADDitude Reader

“Be patient. Give the medication time as you adjust dosage. Try other types if you need to. Everyone is different, and when you find the one that works, it is life changing in a fabulous way!” — Marcia, New York

“I’m hopeful that neuroscience will someday be able to treat ADHD without endless failed attempts with medication.” — An ADDitude Reader

Medication for ADHD Trial and Error: Next Steps

• Read: How Do We Know the Treatment Is Working?
• Read: Time to Switch to a New ADHD Medication?
• Watch: How to Optimize ADHD Medication – Achieving Better Symptom Management
• Learn: ADHD Medication Options – Stimulants, Non-stimulants & More

SUPPORT ADDITUDE
Thank you for reading ADDitude. To support our mission of providing ADHD education and support, please consider subscribing. Your readership and support help make our content and outreach possible. Thank you.

The comments below are a true testament to the difference a trained provider can make in your ADHD journey. These ADDitude readers recall interactions with clinicians who made them feel seen and understood… and offer hope to those adults and caregivers who are struggling to get their needs met.

Patient-Provider Relationship: Positive Interactions

“As soon as I met my current psychiatrist, we clicked. I felt like she understood my symptoms and my struggles right from the beginning. It has made it easier to trust her with details about how my meds are helping or not helping — knowing that she will believe me.” — Jenna

“We had a really great mental health/psych evaluation years ago. The provider wrote a very wonderful story for my child to help him understand his diagnosis. It was based on the animal character to which my son related best. My son, sadly, picked a Sasquatch, which just about broke my heart. He said it was because he liked to just be left alone. The provider wrote a story about how the Sasquatch elders would help him to not be so alone.” — Katie, Oregon

“When talking with my new gynecologist about hormone replacement therapy, I advised her I may need a higher dose of Estradiol due to ADHD. She was unfamiliar with the ADHD-estrogen relationship but said she was always interested in learning more. I sent her a few links to studies (the scant few available so far), and we were able to develop a few options for treatment in conjunction with my ADHD meds.” — Paulette

[Free Class: ADHD Treatment Guide for Adults]

“…My son’s psychiatrist turned to me and said, ‘Your son has a neurodivergent brain. It’s like his brain processes information in a different language.’ We had recently been in a foreign country, so it was easy to compare. That wonderful psychiatrist was the start of our journey to understanding and providing appropriate support for our burnt-out teenager.” — Karen, New Zealand

“When we connected with our new psychiatrist, it was the first time we felt ‘seen’ and understood by someone. With a complex diagnosis of ADHD and autism in an extremely bright child, it was difficult to get someone to see [my son’s] difficulties. Once we realized she got it, it was such a relief. She said, ‘We have a lot of work to do…but we’ll get there. Don’t worry.’” — Leslie, Pennsylvania

“When talking to a psychologist for stress management, he just tossed out that I had ADHD. I had suspected it for a long time, but I felt like someone had finally noticed why things were so stressful.” — Ann, California

“When I finally got to see a psychiatrist, who confirmed my suspicion that I had ADHD (at age 35), I felt very validated. My family doctor had just put me on antidepressants, which didn’t work for me at all. It was great to know I wasn’t actually crazy.” — Claire, Canada

[Read: “Here’s How I Found an ADHD Specialist Near Me.”]

“We hired an occupational therapist to help our son with self-regulation. She saw all the good things in our son that we didn’t see due to the impulsivity issues he was having at school, summer camps, etc. She really helped us to see him for the amazing child he is and opened our eyes to the curiosity behind behavior that got him into trouble.” — Tiffany, Canada

“When my son was in elementary school, the school counselor had a wonderful relationship and bond with him. During a meeting at school, she told me: “Everyone focuses on his behavior challenges, but I want to acknowledge his personality and what a bright and caring kid he is. Yes, he has lots of challenges, but he’s also a great kid. Don’t forget that.” This was after a serious incident involving my son. I felt that she was really on our side and truly cared about him. The others in the meeting were talking negatively about him; she stood up for him.” — An ADDitude reader

“For me, it was a counselor at a crisis center. This was before my ADHD diagnosis, and I was in a depression/anxiety crisis in which my significant other had called 911. The police response took me to this center, and the counselor on duty (it was after midnight and she was the only one there) happened to be the most amazing fit for me. I usually would resist speaking to counselors in these settings, but something about her had me feeling comfortable enough to be honest. She said things that ‘clicked’ and got my wheels turning, which propelled me to seek out a diagnosis. Two months later, I was finally getting the correct diagnosis of ADHD, and my life changed forever.” — Laura, Oregon

The Patient-Provider Relationship: Next Steps

• ADDitude Directory: Find an ADHD Specialist Near You
• Free Guide: 25 Things to Love About ADHD
• Deep Dive: ADHD’s Pediatrician Problem

SUPPORT ADDITUDE
Thank you for reading ADDitude. To support our mission of providing ADHD education and support, please consider subscribing. Your readership and support help make our content and outreach possible. Thank you.

Teens aged 18 to 19 are more likely than any other age group to stop taking prescribed medication for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a new study published in The Lancet.¹ The study, which sought to determine the rate of ADHD treatment discontinuation across the lifespan, found that 61% of young adults (ages 18 to 24) discontinued treatment within a year of beginning it, almost double the rate of discontinuation in kids under 12.

The retrospective, observational study analyzed population-based databases from Australia, Denmark, Hong Kong, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, the UK, and the United States, to track patterns of medication initiation, persistence, and discontinuation in the five years after starting treatment. Included in the study were 1,229,972 individuals (60% males, 40% females), aged four and older.

The study revealed that one year after beginning treatment, medication was discontinued by:

• 61% of young adults (aged 18 to 24)
• 53% of adolescents (aged 12 to 17)
• 52% of adults (aged 25 and older)
• 36% of children (aged 4 to 11)

The age at which medication was most commonly discontinued was between 18 and 19 years old.

Medication Adherence Challenges

The reasons teens, adults, and children stop taking medication are plentiful and varied. According to a recent ADDitude treatment survey with more than 11,000 respondents, the top reasons cited by adults and caregivers included:

• Side effects
• Medication availability
• Comorbid conditions
• High cost
• A lack of information and metrics to gauge efficacy
• Availability of providers who understand ADHD

This last barrier to medication continuation is particularly challenging for adults, both young and old, says William Dodson, M.D., in his article “4 Reasons Adults Give Up on ADHD Medication.”

“It’s not easy for patients to find clinicians who are knowledgeable about diagnosing and treating adult ADHD,”² Dodson explains. “Limited experience with pharmacotherapy may result in difficulty gauging a patient’s response to medication and optimizing accordingly.”

The trial-and-error process, in which patients explore the efficacy of different dosages, formulations and possibly different types of ADHD medication, is essential to discovering an optimal treatment plan for ADHD, which varies widely from person to person, even within the same family. This often onerous process can be made far less confusing and stressful when patients work with a clinician who is highly knowledgeable about ADHD. Such a clinician can address the concerns that often prevent patients from starting medication, persevering through the trial-and-error process, and continuing consistent treatment.

“If people are ambivalent and fearful about trying medication, I found they commonly give up at the first sign of difficulty,” Dodson tells ADDitude. “They are often relieved that their fears have been proven correct and that the subject of medication is off the table.”

Unique Considerations for Young Adults and Teens with ADHD

The study’s key finding — that young adults aged 18 to 24 are more likely than any other age group to stop taking medication — is one that resonates with many parents and clinicians, who often find that adolescents resist ADHD medication. This causes concern because young adulthood can be a challenging time, as teens transition to more independent living, begin navigating college, and/or start a job.

Young adults can discontinue medication for a unique set of reasons that relate to their growth and development, according to Wes Crenshaw, Ph.D., and Larry Silver, M.D., in the ADDitude article titled “When Your Teen Refuses to Take ADHD Medication.” These reasons include:

• Exerting independence
• Trying to fit in with peers
• Concerns about “flattening” of personality
• Appetite suppression and sleep trouble

“The best way to sell medication to a teen or young adult is with honesty,” explain Crenshaw and Silver. “Listen to your teen’s complaints, and validate them; Managing medication is difficult, after all. For most children, teens, and adults who have been correctly diagnosed with ADHD, part of accepting the condition is to accept the implications of treatment: On one hand, ‘We can help you,’ and on the other, ‘Treatment is not a walk in the park.’”

For teens and young adults who are resistant to medication but benefit from it, Crenshaw and Silver advise suggesting to teens that they try an experiment. Teens take their ADHD medication for a week, then skip it for a week. During both periods of time, teens should take detailed notes about how they’re doing academically, emotionally and socially. For younger teens who live at home, parents can do the same, and teachers can be enlisted to offer feedback. Have the teen compare the notes from the medicated week with the notes from the non-medicated week. This may help them see the situation more objectively and can lead to treatment continuation.

Sources

¹Brikell, I. Yao, H. Li, L. Astrup, A. Gao, L. Gillies, M. (2023). ADHD medication discontinuation and persistence across the lifespan: a retrospective observational study using population-based databases. The Lancet. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(23)00332-2

²Goodman, D. W., Surman, C. B., Scherer, P. B., Salinas, G. D., & Brown, J. J. (2012). Assessment of physician practices in adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The primary care companion for CNS disorders, 14(4), PCC.11m01312. https://doi.org/10.4088/PCC.11m01312

“I have two kids with ADD,” said an ADDitude reader. “One takes medicine and sees its value. The other has stopped. I worry for both and feel like I’m not sure what the best route is.”

Many parents find themselves in this position. The decision to start or stop medication involves not just you and the doctor, but also your teen, who is seeking increased independence and control in their life. You know that sticking to a consistent medication regimen can make your child’s life easier… but they might need to come to this realization on their own.

“They’re teens, and I have to trust that this part of life is for figuring out hard things,” the reader continued. “We are working together to build skills that will support their growth, regardless of whether they take medication. I’m also working really hard to let them know that even as an adult, I continue to try to improve my habits and figure out what works for me.”

If you have a teen with ADHD who takes medication, have they ever asked to stop taking it? Refused to take it? Or lied about taking it? How did you handle it? Read on to see how these readers broached the topic of medication with their teens.

[Sign Up: The Caregiver’s Guide to ADHD Treatment]

When Teens Refuse ADHD Medication

“My 15-year-old… has always opted not to take her medication on the weekends, and that’s a battle I choose not to engage in. When she stopped taking it on school days, I pointed out that there was no point in seeing a pediatrician if she didn’t follow the treatment plan. That strategy works. However, some mornings her ADHD is the barrier. I try to be available to subtly assess if my independent daughter needs help. If she hasn’t had breakfast, I offer to make it, and place the capsule beside it; if she refuses breakfast, I place the capsule in her hand.”

“We let her get away with [not taking medication] during the shortage. Incentives didn’t work because there was nothing she cared about, and she couldn’t keep her interest long enough to actually earn anything. We finally had to resort to threats of taking away the only thing she cared about: sports.”

“[My son] has said he doesn’t need it, specifically on the weekends. I don’t force it on him.”

“My child has refused to take medication for ADHD for the last two years. I don’t force her. I explain that it’s going to take a more concentrated effort to get things done. We also work with a therapist to consistently learn and implement coping techniques and focus strategies.”

[eBook: The Parents’ Guide to Raising Teens with ADHD (Part One)]

“I was the teen who wanted to stop medication. I felt so overwhelmed in high school by medication; I didn’t think I was the same person on and off my meds. My parents didn’t allow me to stop because we agreed that I would not put other supports in place (like an ADHD diet) to manage my symptoms. I’m glad we were able to have an open and honest conversation about it, and that I did not stop taking medication. I learned how to feel like myself both off and on medication, and I think it is now essential to managing my symptoms and being in control of myself.”

“My 13-year-old is on a variety of medications. Some help her focus, and one helps her sleep at night. She takes them willingly because she knows they help her. She has a check-in with her psychiatrist once a month to make sure they’re working. Every time there’s a medication change, we watch her carefully to make sure there are no side effects. Her psychiatrist is very careful with medications. ‘Go low and go slow’ is her motto.”

“I let [my teens] go off of [medication] for a bit to see how they would function without it… they went back on it after a few weeks.”

“I have a daughter who is 14 and has refused to take her medication for about a year and a half now. She says she doesn’t like the way it makes her feel, which is anxious. Unfortunately, I have tried multiple times unsuccessfully to convince her how much she needs it. Her ADHD symptoms have gotten worse and she doesn’t care about school or her grades. It is very frustrating. I have tried to convince her to try for a week or two so that her body adjusts, and the symptoms improve. I don’t have much advice, but maybe it will help someone to know they are not alone.”

Parenting Teens Who Refuse ADHD Medication: Next Steps

• Download: Questions to Get Your Child Talking
• Read: Make Your Teen the CEO of Her Treatment Plan
• Read: 10 Supplements and Vitamins for ADHD Symptom Control

SUPPORT ADDITUDE
Thank you for reading ADDitude. To support our mission of providing ADHD education and support, please consider subscribing. Your readership and support help make our content and outreach possible. Thank you.

The Caregiver’s Guide to ADHD Treatment is a joint effort from WebMD and ADDitude designed to guide individuals through the difficult, important decisions they face when treating their kids’ ADHD and comorbid conditions. This guided email course will cover the following topics:

DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?

NOTE: This resource is for personal use only.

COMPLEX TREATMENT: How do I treat ADHD alongside a comorbid condition in my child?

A: Contraindications — some of them common comorbidities — and side effects may limit the use of stimulant medication in… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

ANXIETY: How should we treat comorbid ADHD and anxiety in my child?

A: It’s important to talk to your child’s doctor if you believe they may have ADHD, anxiety, or both. If left untreated, either condition can get worse, making it harder for your child at school, home, and… | Keep reading on WebMD »

DEPRESSION: How should we treat comorbid ADHD and depression in my child?

A: ADHD is usually treated with medicines known as stimulants. Antidepressants might also help some symptoms of ADHD and ADHD that’s combined with depression. Studies suggest… | Keep reading on WebMD »

ODD: How should we treat comorbid ADHD and ODD in my child?

A: If your child has been diagnosed with both ADHD and ODD, the doctor may recommend treatment as early as possible and… | Keep reading on WebMD »

OCD: How should we treat comorbid ADHD and OCD in my child?

A: Both conditions respond well to cognitive behavioral therapy and medications. If your child has ADHD and OCD, the doctor may combine the treatments… | Keep reading on WebMD »

AUTISM: How should we treat ADHD in my autistic child?

A: Work with your child’s care team to find a treatment plan that’s right for your little one. It might include both behavior therapy for autism and medication for ADHD… | Keep reading on WebMD »

FIRST-PERSON: “The Nightmare of ‘Back to Baseline’”

“For those who may not know, ‘baseline’ is the process of weaning a child from any medication he may be taking. This is usually suggested before a major med change or to reassess how your child is doing. Our boy has been taking the same prescriptions for ADHD and ODD for nearly a year, and the doctors thought it might be time for a change.” | Keep reading on ADDitude »

RELATED RESOURCES

FREE DOWNLOAD: 9 Conditions Often Linked to ADHD

An overwhelming majority of individuals with ADHD are diagnosed with at least one other psychiatric and/or developmental disorder. | Download now on ADDitude »

SYMPTOM TEST: The ADDitude Symptom Checker

Are all of your symptoms explained by ADHD, or could you have a comorbid condition? | Take the symptom checker »

8-Part Guide to ADHD Treatment in Children, from WebMD x ADDitude:

DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
> DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?

MED EFFECT: How do I know if my child’s ADHD medication is working?

A: Before starting a new treatment, you and your child’s teacher can make a checklist of their symptoms as a baseline. After your child is on the medication… | Keep reading on WebMD »

DOSING: How do we find an optimal dose of ADHD medication?

A: As with the drug itself, doctors can’t predict with certainty which dose will be most effective. Your doctor will start your child with a low dose and move it up as needed… | Keep reading on WebMD »

ADJUSTING MEDS: What should I do if my child’s ADHD medication is not working?

A: Stimulant drugs start to work quickly. If a medicine is going to work, you should see some improvement within 30 to 90 minutes after your child takes it. That also means that if a medicine isn’t helping your child, you’ll notice… | Keep reading on WebMD »

REBOUND: How can I address my child’s irritability as the ADHD med wears off?

A: When medication leaves the body too quickly, ADHD symptoms can return suddenly and intensely. These flare-ups tend to… | Keep reading on WebMD »

DRUG HOLIDAYS: Should my child take breaks from ADHD medication?

A: You may have heard that there are benefits of taking breaks from ADHD medication. It may be a good idea for some kids, but talk with the doctor about what’s right for your child… | Keep reading on WebMD »

CESSATION: How will I know if my child is ready to stop taking ADHD medication?

A: Some kids need to stay on ADHD meds until adulthood. Others outgrow their symptoms or learn to compensate for them as their brain matures. At some point… | Keep reading on WebMD »

FIRST-PERSON: “A 30-Day Supply of Parental Agony”

“As the father of three kids with ADHD, prescription management is basically my part-time job. The pharmacy closes at 8pm, so it’s typically around 8:05pm when someone says, ‘Dad, I’m out of medicine.’ And because stimulants are controlled substances, only the pediatrician can call in a refill.” | Keep reading on ADDitude »

RELATED RESOURCES

FREE DOWNLOAD: Weekly Monitoring Report

Use this weekly log with your child’s teacher to track progress toward academic and behavior goals, and the effectiveness of your ADHD treatment. | Download now on ADDitude »

EXPERT WEBINAR: How to Optimize ADHD Medication

Expert webinar with William Dodson, M.D., LF-APA. | Listen now on ADDitude »

8-Part Guide to ADHD Treatment in Children, from WebMD x ADDitude:

DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
> DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?

BEHAVIORAL THERAPY: Can behavioral therapy improve my child’s ADHD symptoms?

A: Behavioral therapy isn’t psychotherapy or play therapy. It focuses on actions, not emotions. It can teach your child how to turn disruptive energy into positive thoughts… | Keep reading on WebMD »

PARENT TRAINING: Can parent training improve my child’s ADHD symptoms?

A: Also called behavioral parent training (BPT), parent training can improve the way your child acts, help them gain self-control, and boost their self-esteem. For young children… | Keep reading on WebMD »

EF SKILLS: How can I use behavioral parent training to improve my child’s executive functions?

A: BPT provides insight into difficulties with executive functions, such as working memory deficits or poor response inhibition. It offers specific strategies for responding in a way that helps your child… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

OT: Can occupational therapy improve my child’s ADHD symptoms?

A: An occupational therapist, or “OT,” helps kids with ADHD improve certain skills, such as organization, physical coordination… | Keep reading on WebMD »

THERAPY: Can family therapy improve my child’s ADHD symptoms?

A: Family therapy can help your household — and all the people in it — run more smoothly. Treatment can be parent-directed or include your child in sessions… | Keep reading on WebMD »

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE: What natural ADHD treatments are most highly rated by other parents?

A: Diet, exercise, and sleep are the Big Three — the lifestyle changes with the most significant, most scientifically proven effect on ADHD. When these lifestyle factors are optimized… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

FIRST-PERSON: “How Occupational Therapy Changed My Son’s Life…”

“…and taught me how to better parent a child with special needs. Part of this is recognizing that my parental instincts are not always going to be right. From time to time, I’m going to face tough choices and will need to rely on my skills from therapy to guide me in the right direction.” | Keep reading on ADDitude »

RELATED RESOURCES

FREE DOWNLOAD: Parent Training Programs

In this free resource, we outline how these programs work, what skills parents will learn, and how long it will take to see better behavior. | Download now on ADDitude »

EXPERT WEBINAR: The Best Kind of Discipline

Expert webinar with Carla Counts Allan, Ph.D. | Listen now on ADDitude »

8-Part Guide to ADHD Treatment in Children, from WebMD x ADDitude:

DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
> DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?

EXERCISE: Will exercise improve my child’s ADHD symptoms, according to research?

A: In studies, kids with ADHD who exercised performed better on tests of attention, and had less impulsivity, even if they weren’t taking stimulant… | Keep reading on WebMD »

SPORTS: What sports are the best options for my child with ADHD?

A: The sport should be one that will hold your child’s interest. Baseball involves a lot of time standing in the outfield, and that invites distraction. Soccer, on the other hand… | Keep reading on WebMD »

SLEEP: Does sleep affect ADHD symptoms in any way? How much sleep do kids with ADHD need?

A: Sleep may be the most important tool nature uses to grow a child’s brain. During sleep the brain makes new connections, stores memories, and repairs cells. One striking scientific finding is called sleep-dependent learning… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

MINDFULNESS: Could mindfulness improve my child’s ADHD symptoms?

A: When you learn to calm your mind and be in the present moment, your working memory can improve. This might help… | Keep reading on WebMD »

BRAIN ACTIVITY: How can I understand the neurological effects of exercise on my child’s ADHD brain?

A: By showing that exercise sparks the master molecule of the learning process, BDNF, the study author nailed down a biological connection between movement and cognitive function… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

MEDITATION: What mindfulness exercises work best children with ADHD?

A: At school or at home, practice yoga poses in the morning, and meditation at the end of the day. Start with the “Take 5” method where children take five slow breaths inhaling through the nose, then exhaling… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

FIRST-PERSON: “Sports Gave My Son a Way to Channel His Energy”

“‘As a teen, I felt that everyone hated me,’ he recalls. ‘I was always doing something wrong, it seemed. It’s hard to feel good about yourself when everyone is complaining about you. Sports turned those negative feelings into positive ones.'” | Keep reading on ADDitude »

RELATED RESOURCES

FREE DOWNLOAD: Easy Mindfulness Exercises for Kids

Mindfulness is possible at any age. In this guide, learn how to teach meditation exercises that will help your child calm their body and mind. | Download now on ADDitude »

FREE DOWNLOAD: Sports & Activities for Kids with ADHD

Use this list to determine which activities will showcase and strengthen your child’s abilities so she can shine on the court, in the field, or in the pool. | Download now on ADDitude »

8-Part Guide to ADHD Treatment in Children, from WebMD x ADDitude:

DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
> DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?

NUTRITION: What should my child eat (and avoid) to improve their ADHD symptoms?

A: There’s no clear scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by diet or nutritional problems. But certain foods may play at least some role in affecting symptoms… | Keep reading on WebMD »

SUPPLEMENTS: Which vitamins and supplements can improve my child’s ADHD symptoms?

A: Several studies have shown a drop in hyperactivity and impulsivity with zinc supplements. The same research, though, reports no change in inattentiveness… | Keep reading on WebMD »

ADDITIVES: Should my child with ADHD avoid food dyes?

A: A study of nearly 300 children by the United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency in 2007 showed that the consumption of foods containing dyes could increase hyperactive behavior… | Keep reading on WebMD »

FISH OIL: Should my child with ADHD take a daily fish oil supplement?

A: Our brains use omega-3s in the hippocampus, the memory center of the brain. If you are low in omega-3 fatty acids, it may be… | Keep reading on WebMD »

OMEGA-3s: Should my child with ADHD eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids?

A: A deficiency of omega-3s is bad news for a child’s or adult’s brain. Our hunter-gatherer ancestors ate a diet with a ratio of about 2 to 1 omega-6s to omega-3s. Today, we eat a diet with the ratio… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

CLEAN EATING: Should I remove all sugar and inorganic foods from my child’s diet?

A: Although not every child with ADHD reacts to sugar in an adverse way, it is best for all parents to limit sugar as much as possible. Soda, if offered at all, should be an occasional treat. Fruit juice should be limited to… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

FIRST-PERSON: “I’ve Become a Food Cop for My Son”

“Our insufferable food rules: no dairy, no gluten, no food dye. None. No trace amounts. No cheating. No “just-one-bite.” We tell the disbelievers that if they’d like to feed it to our kids, they will be parenting the kids for the next two days.” | Keep reading on ADDitude »

RELATED RESOURCES

FREE DOWNLOAD: Alternative ADHD Treatment Guide

Lean about the benefits and risks of alternative treatment options like neurofeedback, nutrition, supplements, and more. | Download now on ADDitude »

FREE DOWNLOAD: ADHD Vitamins and Supplements

This guide outlines ADHD-friendly vitamins and supplements — like iron, zinc, and magnesium — that may help common ADHD symptoms. | Download now on ADDitude »

8-Part Guide to ADHD Treatment in Children, from WebMD x ADDitude:

DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
> DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?

SIDE EFFECTS: What side effects of ADHD medication might impact my child?

A: Side effects of stimulant medications include trouble sleeping, nausea, loss of appetite, irritability, dizziness… | Keep reading on WebMD »

APPETITE: How can we solve the problem of appetite suppression associated with ADHD medication use?

A: Give your child high-calorie foods before they take their meds in the morning. They don’t like bacon and eggs? Offer a leftover burger or slice of pizza and a side of fruit for breakfast. Kids need calories and nutrition… | Keep reading on WebMD »

SLEEP: How can we solve the problem of sleeplessness associated with ADHD medication use?

A: Trouble with sleep is a common side effect of ADHD medications (which are stimulants). To be sure your child can wind down at bedtime, ask their doctor about changing the dose, the timing of it, or the type… | Keep reading on WebMD »

TICS: How can we solve the problem of tics associated with ADHD medications?

A: Though tics can be scary to have or watch, they don’t harm the brain. There are physical tics, such as repeatedly blinking or… | Keep reading on WebMD »

MOODINESS: How can we address emotional dysregulation when my child’s ADHD medication begins to wear off?

A: Ask your doctor about trying another stimulant; just because one stimulant causes emotional problems doesn’t mean that others will. If all stimulants cause problems, you’ll have to move on to… | Keep reading on ADDitude »

FIRST-PERSON: “The Gremlin Who Comes Out at Night to Eat Oreos”

“My son’s ADHD medicine suppresses his appetite and he can vacillate from hungry to not hungry and back again in the time it takes to pour a bowl of cereal. But, as I’ve learned, if I don’t make him eat before bed, he wakes in the wee hours of the morning and stalks the kitchen.” | Keep reading on ADDitude »

RELATED RESOURCES

FREE DOWNLOAD: A Parent’s Guide to ADHD Medication

Read this to learn how doctors determine the right medication and dosage, monitor a medication’s effectiveness, address side effects, and more. | Download now on ADDitude »

EXPERT WEBINAR: How to Optimize Stimulant Treatment

Expert webinar with Thomas E. Brown, Ph.D. | Listen now on ADDitude »

8-Part Guide to ADHD Treatment in Children, from WebMD x ADDitude:

DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
> DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?

TITRATION: How long will it take to get the ADHD medication and dosage right?

A: Titration is a big word that means working with your doctor to get your child’s medication just right. The goal is to find the dose (or amount) of medicine that controls… | Keep reading on WebMD »

MED SAFETY: What are the short- and long-term effects of using ADHD medication?

A: Side effects and risks associated with the long-term use of ADHD medication include heart disease, high blood pressure… | Keep reading on WebMD »

MEDS & PERSONALITY: Will ADHD medication turn my child into a “zombie?”

A: Sometimes, parents say their child appears dazed when they start taking a stimulant ADHD med. This “zombie effect” is a kind of hyperfocus that could mean their dose is too high… | Keep reading on WebMD »

EXPLAINING TREATMENT: How should I talk with my child about taking ADHD medication?

A: For a young child, choose simple, familiar language. For example, to describe being unable to sit still, “You have the wiggles”… | Keep reading on WebMD »

UNTREATED ADHD: What are the risks of not using ADHD medication?

A: Untreated ADHD can cause problems throughout life. People with ADHD tend to be impulsive and have short attention spans, which can make it harder to succeed in school… | Keep reading on WebMD »

SUBSTANCE USE: Could stimulant use lead to substance abuse in my child?

A: One of the longest-term studies, which followed 100 boys with ADHD for 10 years, showed no greater risk for substance abuse in boys who took stimulant drugs compared to those who didn’t take… | Keep reading on WebMD »

FIRST-PERSON: “What I Want to Say to My Mom, Who ‘Drugged’ Me”

“Thank you, Mom. Thank you for listening when I told you I was struggling. Because of your decision, I did better in school, I felt more confident, and was able to reach my potential.” | Keep reading on ADDitude »

RELATED RESOURCES

FREE DOWNLOAD: Understanding ADHD Medications

In this infographic, learn about differences between stimulants and non-stimulants, signs your child’s dosage needs to be adjusted, and more. | Download now on ADDitude »

FREE DOWNLOAD: ADHD Medication Tracking Log

Learn about indicators that your child’s medication is working plus signs that point to side effects, then track their symptoms in the daily log. | Download now on ADDitude »

8-Part Guide to ADHD Treatment in Children, from WebMD x ADDitude:

DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
> DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?

OPTIONS: What ADHD treatment options should I consider for my child?

A: Together with the doctor, you’ll develop a plan that meets your child’s specific needs. It may include medications, behavioral therapy, or both… | Keep reading on WebMD »

MEDICATIONS: What medication classes are used to treat ADHD in children?

A: Your child’s doctor will probably try a low-dose stimulant first. Stimulants have been used for a long time and are well-tested. They’re often helpful for children and teens who… | Keep reading on WebMD »

CHOOSING A MED: How do I find the best ADHD medication for my child with so many options?

A: There’s no set formula for which medication works best for which child. It’s a process of trial and error. One major decision is whether to use a short- or long-lasting pill. Depending on the prescription… | Keep reading on WebMD »

BEYOND MEDS: Can I treat my child’s ADHD without medication?

A: Alternative treatments for ADHD include elimination diets, omega-3 supplements, parent training, exercise, yoga, meditation,… | Keep reading on WebMD »

MED CLASSES: How can I better understand all of the ADHD medication options and their risks and benefits?

A: The medications most widely used to treat ADHD include stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. Side effects include… | Keep reading on WebMD »

NONSTIMULANTS: What other medication options and classes are used to treat ADHD in children?

A: If you’re thinking about nonstimulant options, your doctor might suggest a drug called a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, or SNRI… | Keep reading on WebMD »

FIRST-PERSON: “The Amazing Day I Saw My Son Medicated”

“I noticed the house was… quieter than usual. Lucas absorbed himself in drawings and books and running around the way he would any other day, but the big difference was the lack of what I call nonsense-noise — those random outbursts of sound that defy categorization.” | Keep reading on ADDitude »

RELATED RESOURCES

FREE DOWNLOAD: ADHD Medications: Comparison Chart

Quickly compare the formulation, duration, and more for the most popular ADHD medications. | Download now on ADDitude »

QUIZ: Myths and Facts About ADHD Medication

Test your knowledge: Does medication cure ADHD? Does it change your personality? | Take the quiz now on WebMD »

8-Part Guide to ADHD Treatment in Children, from WebMD x ADDitude:

> DECISION 1: How should I approach my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 2: Is ADHD medication right for my child?
DECISION 3: How can I address side effects associated with my child’s ADHD medication?
DECISION 4: How can I integrate nutrition & supplements into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 5: How can I integrate exercise & mindfulness into my child’s ADHD treatment?
DECISION 6: What therapies should I integrate into my child’s ADHD treatment plan?
DECISION 7: How should I adjust and optimize my child’s ADHD treatment plan over time?
DECISION 8: How can my child’s treatment plan safely address comorbid conditions?