Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have mental health issues like anxiety or depression. These conditions can affect the way ADHD medications work, and vice versa.
To evaluate a person's symptoms, health care providers use standardized ADHD rating scales and psychometric tests. They may recommend medical or lab tests to determine if there is a medical condition that may cause symptoms similar to those experienced by ADHD.
Medicines
The medicines are the foundation of treatment for ADHD and help people concentrate, stay on task and reduce impulsive behavior. They can improve school, work and family life. They also help people sleep better, so they are more refreshed and less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. Medications are generally used alone or in conjunction with other treatments, such as treatment or changes to diet or lifestyle.
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD and help in increasing and balancing levels of certain neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. The two stimulants that are most often prescribed for adults with ADHD include methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin XR, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR) and amphetamine. Other medications that are used for adults with ADHD include the nonstimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants such as bupropion. Many adults test a variety of dosages and types of medications to determine what is the most effective for them.
If a person begins taking ADHD medication, the drug has a different effect on everyone and it can take a while to find the appropriate dosage for the individual. A doctor or nurse might prescribe a lower dosage and then observe the patient's response before recommending a higher dosage. They may alter the dosage to avoid adverse effects such as drowsiness and stomach upset. They might also suggest changing your diet or supplements to increase the effectiveness of the medication.
The need for ADHD medication may change as time passes. This is especially true if a patient experiences significant life changes. Talk to your doctor if you are having problems at work or in school. Supervisors and coworkers are usually understanding and willing make small adjustments for people who suffers from ADHD to complete their work. A regular sleep schedule can dramatically enhance the symptoms of ADHD.
A therapist can help people learn new skills to cope and overcome their symptoms, whether they are working, at home or with their relationships. This type of therapy can be conducted in a one-on-one, or a group setting and focuses on changing the negative behavior into positive ones. Counseling can help family members understand how to support someone who has ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial treatments may help alleviate symptoms of ADHD. Often, medication is combined with these methods of treatment to improve the results. The medications used to treat adult ADHD comprise stimulants and non-stimulants. The drugs can help people concentrate better and less impulsive, as well as feel calmer. They can also help them learn and practice new techniques. These medications are beneficial for most people with ADHD and their effects can last a long time. The drugs aren't addictive and they do not cause dependence. Patients with a history of substance abuse disorders should be evaluated carefully before taking these drugs.
Many adults with ADHD have trouble concentrating at school and work which can lead to problems for 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 help to improve their performance and develop confidence in themselves. Some therapy professionals specialize in working with people with ADHD.
In a small group or with family members, a behavior therapy is a possibility. Behavioral therapy involves engineering the environment to be conducive to focus and concentration and assisting people to identify what reinforces problem behaviors and what drives them to engage in. It may also include training in coping strategies and exposure therapy to help people overcome certain fears.
A therapist can assist with the emotional issues related to ADHD. They can also teach strategies for improving family life and marriage as well as managing finances, prioritizing tasks and coping with the stresses of everyday life. They can also assist people and their families to understand ADHD and help them understand strategies to support someone with the condition.
Certain people with ADHD also develop depression or anxiety disorders. These disorders can be difficult to treat. These comorbid disorders can make it more difficult to cope with the click here symptoms of ADHD. To determine if there are issues that are contributing to the symptoms, a thorough medical history needs to be conducted. People who have a history of seizures, developmental disorder or hearing problems, and sleep apnea require more thorough assessment, and may require additional treatment.
Medication Trials
The most effective way 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. A trial of medications allows physicians to determine which medication is the best for an individual. They are unable to predict which medicine will be the most efficient, but they can determine which one is most efficient. The trial usually starts with a low dosage that is gradually increased over 3-7 day intervals until the clinical benefits are evident.
A thorough medical history is vital, since many medical conditions mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include mental disorders and developmental disorders like depression, anxiety, learning and communication deficits as well as medical problems like thyroid disorder and lead poisoning, hearing loss or vision loss, and other medical conditions.
Stimulant medications are the most frequently used treatment for adults with ADHD however there are other medications that can help as well. Certain of these medications are antidepressants, which have a direct impact on the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine or specific anticholinergics which reduce symptoms by reducing activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Certain of these medications are not recommended for children. A neurologist or psychiatrist with experience should be consulted before prescribing any of them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy can be beneficial in treating ADHD in adults. Therapists can help families and individuals learn practical techniques to help manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and organizational strategies. They can also offer emotional support and teach coping techniques. Familie and marriage therapy is a great way to help people with ADHD learn how to communicate effectively and resolve conflict.
For certain adults, the best treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleeping habits. A regular bedtime and a good night's sleep can make a significant difference in their ability focus, behave and concentrate.
Other treatment options for ADHD in adults include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a type of talk therapy that helps people change their behavior patterns and thinking patterns as well as lifestyle changes such as dietary modification. Some people can lessen ADHD symptoms by changing their diet, but it is recommended to consult with your doctor before making any changes. Certain foods and supplements may worsen symptoms, or cause them to disappear.
Other Treatments
Adult ADHD is treated using a combination of psychosocial therapy and medications. The medication helps people stay focused and organized, which helps them maintain relationships and keep up with their obligations. Psychosocial treatments help people develop strategies to reduce symptoms and improve their ability to function in everyday life, like time management and organizational 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 treatment for adults with ADHD. It provides them with practical life skills such as managing their time and money, prioritizing their tasks, and enhancing their organizational skills. These coaches aren't like traditional talk therapy, which concentrates on emotional issues. Instead, they help clients manage their behavior. They usually work remotely and do not meet their clients in person.
Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder, major depression and addiction issues. These conditions can cause significant anxiety and affect daily functioning, so treating these issues is usually an important factor prior to starting any ADHD treatment. Certain medications that treat other disorders, like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Atomoxetine (Prozac), may also help with ADHD.
Yoga and meditation are non-medicinal treatments that can reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing focus and attention and decreasing impulsivity. These calming techniques are often taught in a group or individually. Other treatments, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a kind of talk therapy that attempts to alter how someone feels about an event is possible with a therapist, either in person or online.
Adults with ADHD typically have sleep issues and a lack of rest can cause more symptoms. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and avoiding caffeine in the evening can help reduce this.
The most effective treatment for adult ADHD is to combine medication and psychosocial treatment. Some people see dramatic improvements with medication, while others may not see any improvement in any way. It may take a while to determine the appropriate dosage and regimen. Work with your doctor to reap the maximum benefit.