Because depression and ADHD can often occur together, treatment for both is frequently combined. Combined treatment for depression and ADHD includes both medication and behavioral therapy and can be more effective than a single treatment for either depression or ADHD alone.
Stimulant and Non-Stimulant Medications
Stimulant medications are commonly used in treatment for ADHD and include both methylphenidate and amphetamines. A newer, non-stimulant drug called atomoxetine has also shown great promise in controlling ADHD sypmtoms. These can be used in combination with antidepressant therapies as well.
Antidepressant Medications
Antidepressants medications have been found to alleviate the inattentiveness, impulsiveness and hyperactivity associated with ADHD. These include several classes of drugs, from the tricyclic antidepressants to SSRIs (Prozac-like drugs) and MAOIs (which are used less often due to side effects). Antidepressants can be used alone or in combination with ADHD medications and/or behavioral therapy.
Behavior Therapy
Behavior therapy is one of the most common treatments from ADHD and depression because it causes no side effects. Combination treatments for depression and ADHD usually include behavior therapy, from sticking to a schedule and using organization strategies to simple stress-relief techniques, cognitive therapy and self-esteem therapy.
Non-Drug Treatment for Depression and ADHD
Exercise is also a useful treatment when combined with either medication or behavior therapy for treatment of depression and ADHD, and the health benefits of exercise also help alleviate the severity of symptoms. Meditation and relaxation techniques are other popular non-drug treatments for depression and ADHD, along with talk therapy.
Diet
Diet changes can also be useful in combination treatment for ADHD and depression. Avoiding certain foods and substances, like alcohol, refined sugar and caffeine, and increasing intake of foods with omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins can help manage symptoms associated with depression and ADHD.
Herbal Treatment of Depression and ADHD
Certain herbs, like St. John's Wort and Ginkgo Biloba, are also believed to help alleviate systems of both depression and ADHD, especially fatigue (depression) and focus and concentration (ADHD). Herbs can interact and cause serious reactions when used with other medication, so you must check with your doctor first, before combining herbal and prescription treatment.
Conclusion
Combination treatments for depression and ADHD are often used because they are more effective than single treatments. Combination treatment does not mean that medication is necessary, it can be a mix of talk and behavioral therapy with meditation or any other combination of the above.
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