Treating ADHD With Medications
Many adults with ADHD also suffer from mental health problems like anxiety or depression. These conditions can affect the way ADHD medications work and vice the other way around.
To assess the symptoms of a patient, health care providers use the standardized ADHD rating scales and psychometric tests. They may recommend lab or medical exams to rule out medical conditions that can cause symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD.
Medications
Medicines are the mainstay of treatment for ADHD and help people concentrate and stay on track. They also reduce the impulsive behavior. They can improve your work, family and school life. They also help people get to sleep better, so they feel more rested in the morning and are less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. Medications are generally used alone or with other treatments like therapies or changes to diet or lifestyle.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD and help in increasing and balancing levels of specific neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. The two stimulants most frequently prescribed for adults with ADHD include methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin XR, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR) and amphetamine. Adults with ADHD can also be treated with antidepressants, such as bupropion and atomoxetine which are nonstimulant. Many adults try several different dosages and types of medication to find what is most effective 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 dosage and then observe the patient's response before prescribing a higher dose. They might alter the dosage to avoid side effects, including drowsiness or stomach upset. They might also suggest changes to diet or vitamins to improve the effectiveness of the medication.
A patient's need for ADHD medication could change over time, especially if significant life changes occur. If someone is having difficulty at school or at work, they should talk to their doctor. Teachers, supervisors, and coworkers are usually accommodating and will make minor adjustments to help people with ADHD do their job. A regular sleep schedule can also dramatically enhance the symptoms of ADHD.
A therapist can help individuals develop new strategies to overcome and manage their problems, whether at work, at home or with their relationships. This type of therapy may be conducted one-on-one or in groups and focuses on changing the negative behaviors to positive ones. Counseling can help family members understand how to help those with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy, as well as other psychosocial treatments, can improve ADHD symptoms. Treatments are often combined with these treatments to improve outcomes. Adult ADHD medication includes stimulants and nonstimulants. These medications can help you concentrate better, feel more relaxed and less impatient. They can also help them practice and learn new skills. Many people with ADHD respond well to these drugs and the benefits last for an extended period of time. The drugs aren't addictive and they do not cause dependence. However, people who have a history of substance use disorders should be examined prior to taking these drugs.
Many adults with ADHD have trouble concentrating at school and work, which can cause issues for their careers as well as relationships. Counseling can teach them how to improve their ability to concentrate, listen and follow instructions at work or in school. This can improve their performance and help them build confidence. Some therapy specialists specialize in working with people who suffer from ADHD.
The practice of behavior therapy can be carried out individually, in groups or with family members. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to help it be more conducive to concentration, focus and learning. It also involves teaching people how to recognize what reinforces and motivates problem behavior. It can also include training in coping strategies and exposure therapy to help people overcome certain fears.
A therapist can help with the emotional issues caused by ADHD. They can also teach you strategies to improve your family and marriage life. They can help you manage money, prioritize tasks, and cope with daily stress. They can also help people and their families to understand ADHD and help them understand ways to help the person who suffers from it.
Certain people with ADHD also develop depression or anxiety disorders. These disorders can be difficult to treat. These conditions can make it harder to manage ADHD symptoms. A thorough medical history is required to determine whether any of the underlying issues are contributing to the symptoms of ADHD. Patients with a history of developmental disorders, seizures, hearing or vision problems and sleep apnea need more attentive evaluation and, if necessary, other treatments.
Medication Trials
The most effective method to treat ADHD is to increase the brain's chemical dopamine and norepinephrine. These molecules help transmit messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. Practitioners aren't able to predict in advance which medication will work best for an individual, however they can determine which medication and dosage is the most effective through a medication trial. The trial typically starts with a low dosage that is slowly increased at 3-7 day intervals until the clinical benefits are evident.
It is important to have an extensive medical history, because a variety of medical conditions could mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders, psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety, as well as problems with language and learning and certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders as well as lead poisoning, hearing loss or vision loss.
Stimulant medications are the most commonly used treatment for adults with ADHD, but there are other drugs that may help. Some of these drugs include antidepressants that have a direct effect on the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine or specific anticholinergics which reduce symptoms by reducing activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Certain of these drugs are not suitable for use in children, therefore an experienced neurologist or psychiatrist is recommended when prescribing them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy can be helpful in treating ADHD for adults. Therapists can assist individuals and their families develop skills to aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organizational strategies. They can also offer emotional support and teach coping techniques. Familie and marriage therapy is a great method to help those with ADHD learn to communicate effectively and resolve conflict.
The most effective treatment for ADHD for adults is to improve sleep habits. Being consistent with their bedtimes and getting enough quality sleep can make a significant difference in their ability to focus, concentrate and behave.
Other treatments for ADHD in adults include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a talking therapy that helps people change their thinking patterns and behaviors and lifestyle changes such as dietary modification. Some people can lessen ADHD symptoms by changing their diet, however, you should consult your doctor before making any changes. Certain food items and supplements can worsen symptoms, or cause them to disappear.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adults with ADHD requires a mix of psychosocial treatment and medication. The medication helps people stay organized and focused and helps them maintain relationships and stay on top of their obligations. Psychosocial treatments can teach people techniques that can help alleviate symptoms and increase their capacity to function in daily life, such as time management and methods for organizing. These treatments can be beneficial for people who don't respond well to medication.
Behavioral coaching is a successful method of treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. It helps them develop life skills like managing their time, money, prioritizing their tasks, and improving their organization abilities. These coaches aren't as traditional talk therapy that focuses on emotional issues. Instead, they help people manage their behavior. Often, these coaches are remote and don't meet with their clients in person.
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from other mental disorders, such as major depression or bipolar disease and addiction issues. These disorders can cause significant stress and affect daily functions, so treating them is usually an important factor prior to starting any ADHD treatments. Certain medications that treat other disorders, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and atomoxetine (Prozac) could aid in treating ADHD.
Meditation and yoga are non-medicinal treatments that can help to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing focus and attention and decreasing the tendency to be impulsive. adhd treatment in adults calming techniques are often taught in a class or individually. Other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type talking therapy that aims to change the way people feel about a particular issue is possible with a therapist either in person or via online.
Sleep issues are common in adults with ADHD and a poor quality of sleep can cause symptoms. This can be improved by setting a regular sleeping schedule and avoiding caffeine at night.
The best treatment for adults with ADHD is a combination of psychosocial therapy and medication. Some people notice dramatic improvements with medication, while others may not experience any improvement at all. It may take a while to determine the appropriate dosage and regimen. Work with your doctor to reap the maximum benefit.