Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can impact how ADHD medication works and vice in reverse.
Health care providers use the same standardized ADHD symptoms rating scales and psychological tests to evaluate the individual's symptoms. They may recommend physical or lab tests to rule out medical problems that could cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medicines
Medications are the cornerstone of treatment for ADHD and help people concentrate and stay on track. They also reduce the impulsive behavior. They can improve school, work and family life. They also help people get to sleep more easily, meaning they feel more refreshed in the morning and are less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. Medications can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as therapy, diet or lifestyle changes.
Stimulants, which are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD are effective in increasing and balancing certain brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. The two stimulants most frequently employed for adults with ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamine (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR). Other medications that are used for adults with ADHD include the non-stimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants, such as bupropion. Adults frequently test different kinds of medications and dosages in order to determine which one is the most suitable for them.
If a person begins taking ADHD medication it affects everyone differently, and it can take time to determine the best combination of medication for the individual. A doctor or nurse might prescribe a lower dose and then monitor the patient's response before recommending a higher dosage. They can alter the dosage to prevent side effects, such as drowsiness or stomach upset. They might also suggest a change in diet and vitamins to improve the medication's effectiveness.
The needs of a patient on ADHD medication can alter over time, particularly if significant life changes occur. Talk to your doctor if experiencing problems at work or in school. Co-workers and supervisors are often understanding and willing make small accommodations for a person with ADHD to perform their duties. Regular sleep can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms.
A therapist can teach people new strategies to deal with their symptoms and overcome challenges they are having at work, home or in their relationships. This kind of therapy can be conducted one-on-one or in an environment with a group and focuses on changing the negative behavior to positive ones. Counseling can help family members learn how to support someone who has ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial treatments can help alleviate symptoms of ADHD. Often, medication is combined with these treatments to improve outcomes. Adult ADHD medications include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. These medications can help you focus better, feel calmer and less in a state of impulsivity. They also aid in helping them develop new skills and practice. These medications are beneficial for a majority of people suffering from ADHD, and their benefits can last for a long time. The drugs aren't addictive and they don't cause dependence. Patients with a history of addiction disorders to substances should be screened thoroughly prior to taking these medications.
Many people with ADHD struggle to concentrate at school and work and can create issues for their careers as well as relationships. Counseling can help them learn ways to improve their ability to listen, concentrate and follow directions at school or at work. This can boost their performance and help them improve their confidence. Therapists are specially trained to work with individuals with ADHD.
In a group, on your own or with family members, a behavior therapy is a possibility. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to be conducive to focus and concentration and assisting people to discern what triggers behavior problems and what motivates them. It can also involve training in coping techniques and exposure therapy, which aids people overcome certain fears and anxieties.
A therapist can help with the emotional challenges that are associated with ADHD. They can also help you learn strategies to improve your family and marriage life. They can assist you in managing your finances, organize your tasks, and cope with daily stress. They can assist people in understanding ADHD and also educate their families on how to support the person who has it.
Certain people with ADHD suffer from anxiety and depression disorders, which can be difficult to manage. These comorbid disorders can make it difficult to deal with the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough medical history is needed to determine whether any underlying medical conditions contribute to the symptoms of ADHD. People who have a history of seizures, developmental disorder hearing or sight issues, and sleep apnea require an additional evaluation, and possibly other treatment.
Medication Tests
The most effective method to treat ADHD is to increase the brain's chemical dopamine and norepinephrine. These molecules aid in transmitting messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. Practitioners aren't able to predict ahead of time what drug is most effective for a particular person, but they can determine which medication and the dosage that is most effective by conducting a trial. The typical trial starts with a low dose which is gradually increased at 3-7 day intervals until clinical benefits are achieved.
A thorough medical history is vital as many medical conditions mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders and psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression and learning and communication issues and medical problems like thyroid disorder, lead poisoning, hearing or vision loss, and other medical conditions.
There are a myriad of medications that can be used to treat adults suffering from ADHD. The most commonly used are stimulant drugs. However, there are others too. These include antidepressants which have a direct effect on the brain chemical norepinephrine or certain anticholinergic drugs that lessen symptoms by decreasing the activity of the dopamine neurotransmitter. Some of these medications are not suitable for children. treatment for adults with add or neurologist with expertise should be consulted prior prescribing any of them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy can be helpful in treating ADHD among adults. Therapists can teach individuals and families how to manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizing strategies. They can also offer emotional support and teach strategies for coping. Familie and marriage therapy is a great option to help people with ADHD learn how to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts.
For certain adults, the best treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleep patterns. A regular bedtime and getting enough high-quality sleep can make a big difference in their ability to focus, concentrate and behave.
Other treatment options for ADHD include cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a talk therapy which helps people change their behavior and thinking patterns. Lifestyle changes such as dietary modification can also be effective. Some people can lessen ADHD symptoms by changing their diet, but you should consult your doctor before making any changes. Certain food items and supplements can worsen symptoms, or even cause them to disappear.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adult ADHD requires a mix of psychosocial treatment and medication. The medication helps people stay organized and focused which makes it easier to maintain relationships and manage their obligations. Psychosocial treatments teach people skills that can reduce symptoms and improve their ability to function in everyday life, like time management and organizing strategies. These treatments can be beneficial for those who aren't responding well to medications.
Behavioral coaching is a type of therapy that teaches adults with ADHD practical life skills, including managing their time and finances prioritizing their tasks and improving their organizational abilities. In contrast to traditional talk therapy, which focuses on emotional problems they focus on helping people manage their behavior. They often work remotely and do not meet their clients personally.
Many people with ADHD have other mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder, major depression and issues with substance abuse. These disorders can cause significant stress and can affect everyday activities, which is why treating them is typically a top priority before starting any ADHD treatment. Certain medications that treat other disorders, like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Atomoxetine (Prozac) could help with ADHD.
Yoga and meditation are non-medication treatments that can help to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing attention and focus and reducing the tendency to be impulsive. These techniques for relaxation are usually taught in a group or individually. Other therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a kind of talk therapy that tries to change the way people feel about the situation is possible by a therapist in person or via the internet.
Sleep issues are common in adults suffering from ADHD, and poor quality of sleep can exacerbate the symptoms. This can be ameliorated by setting a regular sleeping schedule and avoiding caffeine during the night.
The best treatment for adults with ADHD is an amalgamation of psychosocial therapy and medication. Some people notice a dramatic improvement after taking medication, but others may not. Finding the appropriate dose and regimen may take time, so it's important to consult with your doctor to ensure you get the maximum benefit from this treatment.