Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD have other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can affect how well ADHD medications work and vice in reverse.
Health care professionals employ standard ADHD symptom rating scales and psychological tests to evaluate an individual's symptoms. They may suggest lab or medical exams to determine if there is a medical condition that can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medications
The cornerstone of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps patients stay focused, reduce impulsive behaviors and reduce distractions. They can help improve your work, family and school life. They also aid in sleeping better, so they are more rested and less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. They can be taken on their own 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 brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. The two stimulants that are most frequently prescribed for adults with ADHD include methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin XR, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR) and amphetamine. Other medications that can be 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.
It may take a while to determine the most effective combination of medication for someone who is taking ADHD medication. A nurse or doctor may prescribe a lower dosage and then observe the patient's response to it before prescribing a higher dose. They might alter the dosage to prevent side effects such as drowsiness or stomach upset. They might also suggest changes to the diet and vitamin intake to boost the medication's effectiveness.
The necessity for ADHD medication can change over time. This is particularly true if a patient experiences significant life changes. If someone has difficulty at work or school it is recommended to speak with their doctor. Teachers, supervisors, and coworkers are generally understanding and willing to make small accommodations to help a person with ADHD perform their job. Getting on a regular sleep schedule can significantly increase the symptoms of ADHD.
Therapists can help people learn new skills to cope with their symptoms and overcome challenges they are having at home, at work or in their relationships. This type of therapy can be conducted one-on-one or in a group setting and focuses on changing negative behaviors into positive ones. Counseling can also assist family members understand how to support someone with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial treatments can improve the symptoms of ADHD. Most often, medication is used with these methods of treatment to improve the results. The medications used to treat adult ADHD include stimulants and non-stimulants. The medications can help people concentrate more effectively and less impulsive, as well as feel more calm. They can also help them learn and practice new skills. These drugs are effective for most people with ADHD and their benefits can last a long time. They aren't habit-forming and they do not cause addiction. Patients with a history of substance abuse disorders must be assessed carefully prior to taking these medications.
Many people with ADHD struggle to focus at work and at school. This can have a negative effect on their career and relationships. Counseling can teach them how to improve their ability to concentrate, listen and follow directions at school or at work. This can help improve their performance and build confidence in themselves. Therapists are specially trained to work with individuals who suffer from ADHD.
The practice of behavior therapy can be carried out by individuals, in groups or with family members. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to make it more conducive to focus, concentration and learning. It also involves teaching people how to recognize what reinforces and drives problematic behavior. It can also include training in coping techniques and exposure therapy to help people overcome certain fears.
A therapist can assist with the numerous emotional issues that come with ADHD. They can also teach you strategies to improve your marriage and family life. They can assist you in managing your finances, prioritize tasks, and deal with stress in your daily life. They can also assist individuals and their families understand ADHD and help them understand strategies to support someone with it.
Certain people with ADHD also develop anxiety or depression disorders. These conditions are difficult to treat. These comorbid disorders can make it harder to manage the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough medical history is needed to determine if any of the underlying issues are contributing to the symptoms of ADHD. Patients with a history of seizures, developmental disorder, hearing or sight problems and sleep apnea need more thorough 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 help transmit messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. Practitioners aren't able to predict in advance which medication will be most effective for an individual, however they can determine which medication and what dosage 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 the clinical benefits are evident.
A thorough medical history is vital, since many medical conditions mimic symptoms of ADHD. These include mental disorders and developmental disorders like depression, anxiety learning and communication problems as well as medical problems like thyroid disorder and lead poisoning, hearing or vision loss and various medical conditions.
There are a myriad of medications that can be used to treat adults suffering from ADHD. The most commonly used are stimulant medications. However there are other medications as well. Some of these medications include antidepressants that have an direct impact on the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine or certain anticholinergics that reduce symptoms by reducing activity of the dopamine-neurotransmitter. adhd treatment for adults 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 beneficial in treating ADHD in adults. Therapists can assist individuals and their families develop skills that will aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organization strategies. They can also provide emotional support and teach coping techniques. Family and marriage therapy is a great way to assist those suffering from ADHD learn to communicate effectively and resolve conflict.
The most effective method of treating ADHD for adults is to improve sleep habits. A regular bedtime and a good night's sleep can make a massive difference in their ability focus and behave as well as concentrate.
Other treatment options for ADHD for adults include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) A type of talking therapy that helps people change their behavior patterns and thinking patterns and lifestyle changes like dietary modification. Changes in diet can lessen ADHD symptoms for some people however, it shouldn't be done without consulting your doctor first, as some foods and supplements can worsen symptoms or cause them to disappear completely.
Other Treatments
Adult ADHD is treated with the use of psychosocial therapy and medication. The medication assists people in staying organized and focused which makes it easier to maintain relationships and manage their work. Psychosocial treatments teach people techniques that can help alleviate symptoms and increase their ability to function in everyday life, such as time management and organizing strategies. These treatments are beneficial for people who aren't responding well to medication.
Behavioral coaching is an effective form of therapy for adults with ADHD. It teaches them practical life skills like managing their time and money, prioritizing tasks, and enhancing their organization skills. These coaches are not like traditional talk therapy, which focuses on emotional issues. Instead, they assist clients manage their behavior. They often work remotely and do not meet their clients in person.
Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder, major depression and substance abuse problems. These conditions can cause a lot of stress and interfere with daily functions, so treating them is often the first priority prior to beginning any ADHD treatments. Some medications that are used to treat other disorders, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), and atomoxetine, (Prozac) can aid in treating ADHD.
Yoga and meditation are non-medication therapies that can help reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing attention and focus and reducing the tendency to be impulsive. These techniques for relaxation are usually taught in a class or individually. Other therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talking therapy that tries to change the way someone perceives an event, can be carried out with a therapist, either in person or online.
Sleep issues are common among adults with ADHD, and poor quality of sleep can cause symptoms. Setting a regular schedule for sleep and abstaining from caffeine in the evening can help to improve this.
The best treatment for adults with ADHD is an amalgamation of psychosocial treatment and medication. Some people experience dramatic improvement through medication, whereas others may not see any improvement in any way. Finding the right dosage and regimen may take some time, so it's vital to work with your doctor to ensure that you get the most benefit from this treatment.