People living with ADD, short for attention deficit disorder, are all too often shunned by others. They are often seen as misbehaving, attention seeking, unruly, dumb and unfriendly. As a result, they are often excluded during activities and discussions. The truth is that ADD is an acknowledged condition and it is not willful behavior on the side of the sufferer that causes the symptoms. When treating patients with ADHD Dallas counselors Focus on helping them cope with their condition.

Not all ADD patients suffer from the same symptoms but there are common signs that should alert parents. Most sufferers cannot concentrate for long. They fidget and are restless. Many of them sometimes talk incessantly and many others experience serious mood swings. Aggressive behavior is also very common, as is anti social tendencies. Many sufferers also struggle to see the relationship between existing and new information.

It is a common misconception that ADD is treated by means of drugs such as Ritalin. These drugs are not suitable for all patients and can cause severe side effects that can lead to other health problems. Another drawback is that no combination of drugs can manage all the symptoms common with those suffering from ADD. In some cases drugs do help, however, but not when used as the sole treatment method.

Therapists often support the use of drugs, but not as the sole solution. They prefer a more holistic approach that concentrates on the lifestyle of the patient. Exercise, for example, is deemed a vital component of any treatment program. Patients need to exercise daily. The Serotonin and Dopamine released during exercise help patients to concentrate for longer and it makes them experience a feeling of well being.

Another important part of the treatment plan is to make sure that the patient goes to bed and get up within a fixed routine. Many patients suffer from insomnia and this sometime aggravates the other symptoms. Patients must also make sure that their rooms are dark and that there is no television or any other device that can distract them. Silence in the bedroom is also important.

Diet is also vitally important. Many patients do not eat for many days on end and thereafter they go on a binge of eating junk food. They need to eat at least six smaller meals every day. Each meal should contain fresh vegetables and fruit, some protein and omega fatty acids. This will help them to maintain constant energy levels and improve their concentration. Sugar and alcohol is absolutely taboo.

ADD patients also need counseling. They need to learn how to deal with the condition and how to manage the symptoms. They also need to be taught mechanisms that can help them to avoid conflict and to do better during social interaction. It is especially young patients that need the opportunity to freely discuss their frustrations, their triumphs and their failures. Counseling helps them to be more confident too.

People suffering from ADD need not be excluded from participating as full and respected members of society. The condition can be managed and controlled. Ongoing treatment is essential, however, since this condition cannot be cured. Apart from treatment, patients also benefit greatly if they enjoy the support of their loved ones.