Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people with ADHD also have mental health problems like anxiety or depression. These conditions can affect how well ADHD medications work, and vice in reverse.
Health care providers use standard ADHD symptom rating scales and psychological tests to assess the symptoms of an individual. They may recommend lab or medical exams to determine if there is a medical condition which may cause symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD.
Medications
The medicines are the foundation of treatment for ADHD and aid in helping people focus and stay focused. They also reduce the impulsive behavior. treatment for adhd adults improve working, school and family life. They also help people sleep better, so they are more rested and less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. The medications can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other treatments such as therapy, diet or lifestyle modifications.
Stimulants, the most common medication prescribed for ADHD are effective in increasing and balancing certain chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters. The two stimulants that are most commonly used for adult ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamine (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR). Adults with ADHD can also be treated with antidepressants, such as bupropion and atomoxetine, a nonstimulant. Many adults try several different dosages and types of medications to find what works best for them.
When a person begins taking ADHD medication, the drug has a different effect on everyone and it can take a while to determine the best dosage for the individual. A nurse or doctor will usually start with a lower dose and then monitor the person's response before prescribing more. They might alter the dosage to avoid side effects, including stomach upset or drowsiness. They could also suggest a change in diet and supplements to increase the effectiveness of the medication.
The needs of a patient on ADHD medication can change over time, particularly when significant life changes take place. If someone is having difficulty at school or at work it is best to talk to their doctor. Supervisors and coworkers are usually accommodating and will make small accommodations for a person with ADHD to do their job. Regular sleep can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms.
A therapist can teach people new techniques to manage their symptoms and overcome difficulties they are having at work, home or in their relationships. This kind of therapy can be done one-on-one or in groups and focuses on changing the negative behavior into positive ones. Counseling can help family members learn how to help someone who has ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial treatments can improve the symptoms of ADHD. Medication is often combined with these treatments to improve outcomes. Medications used to treat adult ADHD comprise stimulants and non-stimulants. These medications can help you concentrate more effectively, feel more calm and be less impatient. They can also help them develop and master new skills. These medications are effective for a majority of people suffering from ADHD and their benefits are long-lasting. The medications are not habit-forming and they do not cause addiction. However, those who have a history of substance use disorders should be assessed prior to starting these medications.
Many people with ADHD struggle to concentrate at work and at school. This can have a negative impact on their career and relationships. Counseling can teach them how to improve their ability to listen, concentrate and follow directions at school or at work. This can improve their performance and help them improve their confidence. Some therapy specialists specialize in working with those who suffer from ADHD.
In a group, on your own or with family members, behavioral therapy is possible. Behavioral therapy involves engineering the environment to be conducive to concentration and focus and helping people discern what triggers behavior problems and what drives them to engage in. It can also involve training in coping techniques and exposure therapy, which helps people overcome anxiety and fears.
A therapist can help with the emotional issues that are related to ADHD. They can also provide strategies to improve family life and marriage, managing money, prioritizing work and coping with the stresses of everyday life. They can help people understand ADHD and also educate their families on how to support the person suffering from it.
Some people with ADHD also develop anxiety or depression disorders. These disorders are difficult to manage. These comorbid disorders can make it difficult to deal with the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough medical history is required to determine whether any underlying medical conditions contribute to the symptoms of ADHD. Patients with a history of developmental disorder, seizures hearing or sight issues as well as sleep apnea, require more careful assessment, and may require additional treatment.
Medication Trials
The most effective way to treat ADHD is to increase the brain molecules dopamine and norepinephrine. These substances help transmit messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. The doctors are not able to know ahead of time what drug will work best for an individual, however they can determine which drug and the dosage that is most effective via a trial. The trial begins with a small dose and gradually increases over 3-7 days until the desired clinical effects have been realized.
A thorough medical history is important as many medical conditions mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include mental disorders and developmental disorders such as anxiety, depression, learning and communication deficits, as well as medical conditions like thyroid disorder as well as lead poisoning, hearing loss or vision loss and many other medical conditions.
Stimulant drugs are the most commonly used treatment for adults with ADHD however, there are other drugs that can help as well. Certain of these medications are antidepressants that have an direct impact on the brain chemical norepinephrine, or certain anticholinergics that can reduce symptoms by reducing activity of the dopamine-neurotransmitter. Some of these medications are not recommended for children. A psychiatrist or neurologist with experience should be consulted prior to prescribing any of them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy can be helpful in treating ADHD for adults. Therapists can instruct families and individuals how to manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizing strategies. They can also provide emotional support and teach strategies for coping. People with ADHD often struggle with relationships and their families, and marriage therapy can help people discover ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
The most effective method of treating ADHD for some adults is to improve their sleeping habits. Having a regular bedtime and a good quality sleep can make a huge difference in their ability to focus, concentrate and behave.
Other treatment options for ADHD in adults include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a talking therapy that assists people in changing their thinking patterns and behaviors as well as lifestyle changes, such as diet modification. A change in diet can help reduce ADHD symptoms for some people however, it shouldn't be undertaken without consulting with your physician first, since certain foods and supplements can worsen symptoms or cause them to disappear completely.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adults with ADHD is a combination of psychosocial treatment and medication. These medications help people stay focused and organized which makes it easier to manage tasks and maintain relationships. Psychosocial treatments aid people in learning strategies that can lessen their symptoms and improve how they perform in their daily lives including time management and organizing strategies. These treatments can be beneficial to people who aren't able to respond well to medication.
Behavioral coaching is a highly effective method of therapy for adults with ADHD. It teaches them practical life skills such as managing their time and money, prioritizing their tasks, and enhancing their organization skills. These coaches aren't as traditional talk therapy which concentrates on emotional issues. Instead, they help clients manage their behavior. Most often, these coaches are remote and don't meet with their clients in person.
Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental disorders, such as bipolar or major depression and issues with substance abuse. These conditions can cause a lot of stress and interfere with everyday activities, which is why treating them is usually a top priority before starting any ADHD treatment. Certain medications used to treat other disorders, like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Atomoxetine (Prozac) can aid in treating ADHD.
Some non-medication methods, such as meditation and yoga can help to reduce the effects of ADHD by reducing impulsivity and increasing concentration and attention. These calming techniques can be taught to individuals or groups. Other therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a type of talking therapy that tries to change how someone feels about a situation and can be done with a therapist, either in person or online.
Sleep issues are common among adults suffering from ADHD, and poor quality of sleep can exacerbate the symptoms. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and abstaining from caffeine in the evening can help to improve this.
The most effective treatment for adult ADHD involves both psychosocial and medication treatment. Some people experience a dramatic improvement after taking medication, whereas others might not. Finding the appropriate dose and regimen could take a long time, so it's important to work with your doctor to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from this treatment.