Treating ADHD With Medications
Many adults with ADHD also have other mental health problems like anxiety or depression. These conditions can impact how ADHD medications work and vice versa.
Health professionals use standardized ADHD scales for assessing symptoms and psychological tests to evaluate an individual's symptoms. They may recommend lab or physical exams to rule out medical problems that could cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medicines
The foundation of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps people focus, decrease the risk of impulsive behavior and decrease distractions. They can enhance your work, family, and school life. They also help people sleep better so that they feel more rested and less likely to make bad decisions throughout the day. Medications are generally used alone or with other treatments like therapy or changes in diet or lifestyle.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD and work by boosting and balancing levels of specific neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. The two stimulants most often prescribed for adults with ADHD include methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin XR, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR) and amphetamine. Other medications that are used by adults suffering from ADHD include the nonstimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants like bupropion. Adults often experiment with different types of medications and dosages to find the best fit for them.
When a person starts taking ADHD medication it affects everyone differently, and it may take some time to find the right combination of medication for the individual. A doctor or nurse might prescribe a lower dose, and then observe the patient's response to it before prescribing a higher dose. They can alter the dosage to avoid adverse effects, like stomach upset or drowsiness. They may also suggest changes to diet or supplements to increase the effectiveness of the medication.
The need for ADHD medication can change over time. This is particularly when a patient has significant changes in their life. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing problems at school or at work. Co-workers, supervisors and teachers are generally understanding and will make small adjustments to help someone who suffers from ADHD perform their job. Getting on a regular sleep schedule can dramatically increase the symptoms of ADHD.
A therapist can teach people new skills to cope with their symptoms and overcome difficulties they face at home, work or in their relationships. This type of therapy may be conducted one-on-one or in groups and focuses on changing negative behavior into positive ones. Counseling can assist family members in understanding how to support those with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy, in addition to other psychosocial treatments, can improve ADHD symptoms. Often, medication is combined with these treatments to improve outcomes. The medicines used to treat adults with ADHD include stimulants and non-stimulants. The medications can help you focus more effectively, feel more calm and be less in a state of impulsivity. They can also assist them to develop and master new skills. These medications are beneficial for the majority of people suffering from ADHD and their benefits can last for a long time. The drugs do not cause addiction or the formation of habit. Patients with a history of substance abuse disorders should be evaluated carefully before taking these drugs.
Many adults with ADHD struggle to concentrate at work and in school. This can have a negative impact on their relationships and careers. Counseling can teach them ways to improve their ability to listen, concentrate and follow directions at school or at work. This can to improve their performance and develop confidence in themselves. Some therapists are trained to work with those with ADHD.
Therapy for behavior can be conducted in groups, on your own or with family members. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to be more conducive to concentration and focus, and teaching people to recognize what triggers problematic behaviors and what drives them. It may also include training in coping skills and exposure therapy, which helps people overcome their fears and anxieties.
A therapist can help with the emotional issues caused by ADHD. They can also teach strategies for improving marriage and family life as well as managing money, prioritizing work and coping with the stresses of daily living. They can also assist people and their families understand ADHD and provide ways to support the person with it.
Some people with ADHD also develop depression or anxiety disorders. These disorders can be difficult to manage. These comorbid conditions can make it more difficult to cope with ADHD symptoms. To determine if there are existing conditions contributing to the symptoms and a thorough medical history must be taken. Patients with a history of developmental disorder, seizures or hearing problems as well as sleep apnea, require more careful evaluation, and perhaps other treatment.
Medication Trials
The most effective way to treat ADHD is by increasing the brain molecules dopamine and norepinephrine. These substances help transmit messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. A trial of medications allows physicians to determine which medication is the best for an individual. They cannot know which medicine will be the most efficient, but they can find out which medication is most efficient. The trial typically starts with a low dosage which is gradually increased at 3-7 day intervals until clinical benefits are realized.
A thorough medical history is essential, since many medical conditions mimic symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders and psychiatric disorders like anxiety and depression, difficulties with language and learning, and medical issues like thyroid disorders, lead poisoning and hearing loss or vision loss.
Stimulant drugs are the most common treatment for people suffering from ADHD however there are other medications that can help as well. They could include antidepressants that have a direct impact on the brain chemical norepinephrine or certain anticholinergic agents that decrease symptoms by decreasing the activity of the dopamine neurotransmitter. Some of these medications are not appropriate for use in children, and an experienced neurologist or psychiatrist should be consulted before prescribing them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy is a great option in treating ADHD in adults. Therapists can help families and individuals learn practical techniques to help manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizing strategies. They can also provide emotional support and teach strategies for coping. Therapy for marriage and family is a great method to assist those suffering from ADHD learn how to communicate constructively and resolve conflicts.
The most effective treatment for ADHD for adults is to improve their sleeping habits. Having a regular bedtime and getting enough quality sleep can make a big difference in their ability to concentrate, focus and behave.
Other treatment options for ADHD for adults include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a type of talk therapy that helps people change their thinking patterns and behaviors and lifestyle changes, such as diet modification. Changes in diet can lessen ADHD symptoms in some people however it shouldn't be undertaken without consulting with your doctor first, as some supplements and foods can aggravate symptoms or cause them to disappear completely.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adults with ADHD is a mix of psychosocial treatment and medication. The medication helps people stay focused and organized, which helps them maintain relationships and stay on top of their work. Psychosocial treatments help people learn techniques that can help reduce their symptoms and improve the way they function in everyday life, such as time management and organizing strategies. People who aren't responding to medication can also benefit from these treatments.
Behavioral coaching is a type of therapy that teaches people with ADHD practical life skills, such as managing their time and finances as well as prioritizing tasks and enhancing their organizational skills. These coaches aren't as traditional talk therapy, which focuses on emotional issues. Instead, they assist clients manage their behavior. Most often, these coaches work from a distance and don't meet with their clients in person.
Many people with ADHD also have other mental disorders, like bipolar or major depression and substance abuse issues. treat adult adhd can cause significant anxiety and affect daily functioning, so treating these issues is usually a priority before starting any ADHD treatment. Certain medications used to treat other disorders such as bupropion, (Wellbutrin) and atomoxetine (Prozac) are also able to aid in treating ADHD.
Meditation and yoga are non-medicinal treatments that can reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing attention and focus and reducing impulsivity. These techniques for relaxation are usually taught in a group or on an individual basis. Other therapies, like cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT) is a kind of therapy aimed at helping alter the way that people feel about a particular situation, can be done with a therapist either in person or on the internet.
Adults who suffer from ADHD typically have sleep issues and a poor quality of sleep can worsen symptoms. Setting a regular schedule for sleep and abstaining from caffeine in the evenings can help to improve this.
The most effective treatment for adults with ADHD is an amalgamation of psychosocial treatment and medication. Some people experience dramatic improvement with medication, while others may not experience any improvement at all. Finding the right dosage and regimen can take time, which is why it's crucial to consult with your doctor to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from this treatment.