Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can impact the effectiveness of ADHD medication and vice versa.
Health care professionals employ standardized ADHD symptoms rating scales and psychological tests to evaluate an individual's symptoms. They may suggest medical or lab tests to determine if there is a medical condition that can cause symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD.
Medicines
The foundation of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps patients stay focused, reduce the risk of impulsive behavior and decrease distractions. They can improve school, work and family life. They also aid in getting to sleep more easily, meaning they are more rested in the morning and are less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. Medications can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments, such as therapy, diet or lifestyle modifications.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD and help in increasing and balancing levels of certain 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. Adults often try different types of medications and dosages to determine the most appropriate one for them.
When a person starts taking ADHD medication the drug affects everyone differently, and it can take time to determine the best dosage for them. A nurse or doctor may prescribe a lower dose, and then observe the patient's response before prescribing a higher dose. They may adjust the dose to avoid side effects like drowsiness or stomach upset. They might suggest a change to the diet and vitamin intake to boost the effectiveness of the medication.
The needs of a patient on ADHD medication may change over time, especially when significant life changes take place. If someone is having trouble at school or at work, they should talk to their doctor. Supervisors and coworkers are typically understanding and willing make small accommodations for a person with ADHD to complete their work. Sleeping regularly can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms.
A therapist can teach people new techniques to manage their issues and overcome the challenges they face at home, work or in their relationships. This type of therapy may be conducted in a one-on-one, or an environment with a group and focuses on changing negative behaviors into positive ones. Counseling can also help family members learn how to help someone who has ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial therapies can improve the symptoms of ADHD. The use of medication is often paired with these treatments to improve outcomes. Adult ADHD medications include stimulants as well as nonstimulants. The drugs can help people focus more effectively and less impulsive, as well as feel calmer. They can also help them develop and master new skills. These medications are effective for most people with ADHD, and their benefits can last a long time. The drugs aren't addictive and they don't cause dependence. However, patients who have a history of drug addiction disorders should be examined prior to taking these drugs.
Many people with ADHD struggle to focus at school and work and can create problems for their careers and relationships. Counseling can help them learn ways to improve their ability to concentrate, listen and follow directions at school or at work. This can improve their performance and build confidence in themselves. Some therapy specialists are trained to work with individuals who suffer from ADHD.
In a small group or with family members, behavioral therapy is a possibility. Behavioral therapy is the process of changing the environment to make it more conducive to concentration, focus and learning. It is also about teaching people to recognize what reinforces and motivates problem behaviors. It can also involve training in coping skills as well as exposure therapy, which can help people overcome anxiety and fears.
Therapists can help with the emotional issues that are caused by ADHD. They can also help you develop strategies to improve family life and marriage, managing money, prioritizing work and coping with the stresses of daily living. They can help people understand ADHD and also educate their family members on how to support the person with it.
Some people who suffer from ADHD also develop anxiety or depression disorders. These disorders can be difficult to manage. These comorbidities can make it harder to cope with ADHD symptoms. A thorough medical history is needed to determine whether any underlying medical conditions contribute to the symptoms of ADHD. Patients with a history of seizures, developmental disorder, hearing or sight problems and sleep apnea need more thorough assessment, and may require additional treatment.
Medication Trials
The most effective method to treat ADHD is to increase the brain's dopamine and norepinephrine. These molecules help transmit messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. Practitioners aren't able to predict ahead of time what drug will work best for a particular person, but they can determine which drug and dosage is the most effective via a trial. The trial begins with a low dose, and is gradually increased over a period of 3-7 days until the clinical benefits have been realized.
It is important to have an extensive medical history, since a number of medical conditions can be a source of symptoms similar to ADHD. These include developmental disorders and psychiatric disorders like anxiety and depression, learning and language deficits, and certain medical conditions such as thyroid disorder, lead poisoning, hearing or vision loss.
Stimulant medication is the most commonly used treatment for adults with ADHD, but there are other drugs that can help as well. Some of these medications include antidepressants that have a direct impact on the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine or certain anticholinergics that can reduce symptoms by reducing the activity of the dopamine-neurotransmitter. Certain of these medications are not recommended 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 for adults. Therapists can help people and their families develop skills that will assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organization strategies. They can also provide emotional support and teach strategies for coping. Therapy for marriage and family is a great option to assist those suffering from ADHD learn how to communicate effectively and resolve conflict.
For some adults, the most important treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleep patterns. Being consistent with their bedtimes and getting enough quality sleep can make a big difference in their ability to concentrate, focus and behave.
Other treatment options for ADHD in adults include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a type of talk therapy that assists people in changing their behavior patterns and thinking patterns, and lifestyle changes like dietary modification. Some people can lessen ADHD symptoms by changing their diet, however, you should consult with your doctor before making any changes. Certain foods and supplements may worsen symptoms, or even cause them to disappear.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adult ADHD requires a combination of psychosocial treatment and medication. Medications help people focus and organize, which can make it easier to manage tasks and maintain relationships. treatment of adhd in adults teach people strategies to alleviate symptoms and increase their ability to function in everyday life, like time management and methods for organizing. These treatments are beneficial to people who aren't able to respond well to medications.
Behavioral coaching is a type of therapy that teaches adults suffering from ADHD practical life skills, including managing their time and money prioritizing their tasks and improving their organizational skills. These coaches aren't as traditional talk therapy which concentrates on emotional issues. Instead, they help people manage their behavior. They often work from a distance and don't meet their clients in person.
Many people who suffer from ADHD are also suffering from mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder or major depression and substance abuse problems. These disorders can cause significant stress and can affect daily activities, so treating them is typically a top priority before starting any ADHD treatments. Certain medications used to treat other disorders, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Atomoxetine (Prozac) can aid in treating ADHD.
Certain non-medicative therapies, such as meditation and yoga, can help calm the effects of ADHD by reducing impulsivity and increasing concentration and attention. These techniques for calming can be taught to individuals or groups. Other therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that seeks to change the way someone feels about a particular issue, can be done by a therapist in person or via online.
Adults suffering from ADHD often have sleep problems and a lack of rest can cause more symptoms. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and staying away from caffeine in the evenings can help improve this.
The most effective treatment for adult ADHD is to combine medication and psychosocial treatment. Some people see dramatic improvements through medication, whereas others may not experience any improvement at all. It may take a while to find the right dosage and regimen. Talk to your doctor to reap the maximum benefit.