Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people with ADHD have other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can impact how ADHD medications work and vice in reverse.
Health care professionals employ standardized ADHD scales for assessing symptoms and psychological tests to determine the symptoms of an individual. They may suggest physical or lab tests to rule out medical problems which could trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medications
The mainstay of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps people focus, decrease impulsive behaviors and reduce distractions. They can enhance your work, family and school life. They also help people get to sleep more easily, meaning they are 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 are effective in boosting and balancing levels of specific neurotransmitters in the brain. The two stimulants most commonly used for adult ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamine (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR). Other medications that can be utilized by adults suffering from ADHD include the nonstimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants such as bupropion. Adults frequently test different kinds of medications and dosages to determine the most appropriate one for them.
It may take a while to find the right combination of medication for someone who is taking ADHD medication. A nurse or doctor will usually start with a lower dose and monitor the person's response before prescribing more. They can alter the dosage to prevent side effects, including stomach upset or drowsiness. understanding may also recommend a change in the diet or supplements to increase the effectiveness of the medication.
A patient's need for ADHD medication may alter over time, particularly when significant life changes take place. If a person is having trouble at work or school, they should talk to their doctor. Supervisors and coworkers are typically accommodating and will make small adjustments for people who suffers from ADHD to complete their work. Sleeping regularly can help to improve ADHD symptoms.
Therapists can help people learn new skills to cope with their symptoms and overcome challenges they are having at home, work or in their relationships. This type of therapy can be conducted one-on-one or in an environment with a group and focuses on changing the negative behaviors to positive ones. Counseling can also help family members understand how to support someone with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial treatments can improve the symptoms of ADHD. The use of medication is often paired with these treatments to improve the results. The medications used to treat adult ADHD include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. These medications can help you concentrate more effectively, feel more calm and less in a state of impulsivity. They can also assist them to learn and develop new skills. These drugs are effective for the majority of people suffering from ADHD and their benefits are long-lasting. The medications do not cause dependence or create a habit. However, patients who have a history of substance addiction disorders should be examined prior to taking these drugs.
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle to focus at work and in school. This can have a negative effect on their careers and relationships. Counseling can help them learn ways to improve their ability to concentrate, listen and follow directions at work or in school. This can improve their performance and increase their confidence in themselves. Therapists are specially trained to work with individuals with ADHD.
In a small group or with family members, a behavior therapy is possible. Behavioral therapy involves engineering the environment to be more conducive to concentration and focus and helping people recognize what triggers problematic behaviors and what motivates them. It may also include training in coping skills as well as exposure therapy, which can help people overcome anxiety and fears.
Therapists can help with the emotional issues associated with ADHD. They can also teach you strategies to improve your marriage and family life. They can help you manage your money, organize your tasks, and cope with daily stress. They can help people understand ADHD and also educate their families on how to support the person with it.
Some people suffering from ADHD suffer from anxiety and depression disorders that can be difficult to treat. These disorders that are comorbid can make it harder to deal with the symptoms of ADHD. To determine if there are underlying conditions that may be contributing to the symptoms and a thorough medical history must be taken. Patients with a history of developmental disorders, seizures, hearing or vision problems and sleep apnea require a more thorough evaluation, and may require other treatments.
Medication Tests
The most effective method to treat ADHD is by increasing the brain's dopamine and norepinephrine. These substances help transmit messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. A trial of medications allows physicians to determine which medication is the best for an individual. They are unable to predict which drug will be most effective, but they will find out which medication is most effective. The typical trial starts with a low dosage that is slowly increased at 3-7 day intervals until clinical benefits are realized.
It is important to have a thorough medical history, because a variety of medical conditions could mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders mental disorders, psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression, difficulties with language and learning, and some medical problems such as thyroid disorder, lead poisoning and hearing or vision loss.
Stimulant medication is the most commonly used treatment for adults suffering from ADHD however there are other medications that can be helpful as well. Some of these drugs include antidepressants that have a direct effect on the brain chemical norepinephrine or certain anticholinergics that can reduce symptoms by reducing the activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Certain of these drugs are not appropriate for use in children, and an experienced psychiatrist or neurologist should be consulted when prescribing these medications to an adult patient.
Behavioral therapy can be beneficial in treating ADHD in adults. Therapists can help individuals and their families develop skills to aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organization strategies. They can also offer emotional support and teach strategies for coping. People with ADHD frequently have difficulty relating to others and family, and marriage therapy can help them develop effective ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
For some adults, the best treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleeping habits. A regular bedtime, and adequate quality sleep can make a significant difference in their ability focus and behave, as well as their ability to concentrate.
Other treatment options for ADHD for adults include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a talking therapy that assists people in changing their patterns of thinking and behavior, and lifestyle changes such as 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 a combination of psychosocial therapy and medication. These medications help people to focus and organize and make it easier to keep up with 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 for people who aren't responding well to medications.
Behavioral coaching is a highly effective method of treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. It teaches them practical life skills such as managing their time and money, prioritizing their tasks, and enhancing their organization abilities. These coaches aren't as traditional talk therapy that is focused on emotional issues. Instead, they assist clients manage their behavior. They often work remotely and don't meet their clients personally.
Many people with ADHD have other mental health disorders, like bipolar disorder or major depression and substance abuse problems. These conditions can cause significant distress and interfere with everyday functioning, so addressing these conditions is usually prior to beginning any ADHD treatment. Certain medications used to treat other disorders, such as bupropion, (Wellbutrin), and atomoxetine (Prozac) are also able to aid with ADHD.
Some non-medication treatments, like yoga and meditation, can help calm the effects of ADHD by improving concentration and focus. These techniques can be taught to groups or individuals. Other therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type therapy that seeks to change the way people feel about a particular situation and can be conducted by a therapist in person or online.
Sleep issues are common among adults with ADHD and a poor quality of sleep can worsen the symptoms. This can be ameliorated by following a regular sleep schedule and avoiding caffeine at late at night.
The most effective treatment for adults ADHD combines medication and psychosocial treatment. Some people notice a dramatic improvement after taking medication, but others might not. It can take some time to find the right dosage and regimen. Consult with your physician to reap the maximum benefit.