Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people with ADHD have other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety. These conditions can affect the way ADHD medication works and vice in reverse.
To evaluate treating adult add of a person's symptoms health professionals employ 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 experienced by ADHD.
Medicines
The foundation of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps people stay focused, reduce the risk of impulsive behavior and decrease distractions. They can improve school, work and family life. They also aid in sleeping better so that they feel more rested and less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. They are usually used in conjunction with or with other treatments like therapy or changes in diet or lifestyle.
Stimulants, which are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD are effective in increasing and balancing certain chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters. 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. Adults suffering from ADHD can also be treated with antidepressants such as bupropion and atomoxetine, which is a nonstimulant. Adults often try different types of medication and dosages to determine the most appropriate one for them.
When a person begins taking ADHD medication the drug has a different effect on everyone and it can take time to find the right dosage for them. A nurse or doctor typically begin with the lowest dose and observe the person's response before prescribing more. They might alter the dosage to prevent side effects, including drowsiness or stomach upset. They may also suggest changes to diet or vitamins to improve the effectiveness of the medication.
The need for ADHD medication can change as time passes. This is especially when a patient has significant changes in their life. Consult your doctor if you're experiencing problems at school or at work. Co-workers, supervisors and teachers are generally understanding and willing to make small adjustments to help someone who suffers from ADHD perform their job. Being on a regular sleeping schedule can also dramatically increase the symptoms of ADHD.
A therapist can help people learn new skills to manage and overcome issues, whether they are working, at home or with their relationships. This kind of therapy can be conducted in a one-on-one, or a group setting and focuses on changing negative behaviors into positive ones. Counseling can also help family members understand how to support someone with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy, in addition to other psychosocial treatments, can improve ADHD symptoms. Often, medication is combined with these methods of treatment to improve outcomes. The medications used to treat adult ADHD include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. The medications can help you concentrate better, feel more relaxed and be less impatient. They can also help them learn and develop new techniques. These medications are effective for the majority of people suffering from ADHD and their effects can last a long time. They aren't habit-forming and they don't cause addiction. People with a history or substance abuse disorders must be assessed carefully prior to taking these medications.
Many people with ADHD struggle to focus at work and school and can create issues for their careers as well as relationships. Counseling can assist them in improving their ability listen, concentrate and follow directions in the workplace or at school. This can improve their performance and help build confidence. Some therapists are trained to work with people with ADHD.
Therapy for behavior can be conducted by individuals, in groups or with family members. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to be more conducive to concentration and focus and assisting people to identify what reinforces problem behaviors and what is motivating them to engage in. It could also include training in coping techniques and exposure therapy, which can help people overcome anxiety and fears.
A therapist can assist with the emotional issues related to ADHD. They can also teach you strategies to improve your family and marriage life. They can assist you in managing your finances, organize your tasks, and cope with everyday stress. They can also help people and their families understand ADHD and educate them on strategies to support someone with it.
Some people with ADHD are also prone to anxiety or depression disorders. These conditions are difficult to manage. These disorders that are comorbid can make it difficult to deal with the symptoms of ADHD. To determine if there are any existing conditions contributing to the symptoms an extensive medical history should be taken. People who have a history of seizures, developmental disorders, hearing or vision problems and sleep apnea should undergo a attentive evaluation and, if necessary, other treatment options.
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. A trial of medication allows doctors to determine which medication is the best for an individual. They cannot predict what drug will be most efficient, but they can determine which drug is most effective. The trial usually starts with a low dose that is gradually increased over 3-7 days intervals until clinical benefits are realized.
A thorough medical history is important because numerous medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders and psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, learning and communication deficits, as well as medical issues like thyroid disorders, lead poisoning, hearing or vision loss and many other medical conditions.
Stimulant medication is the most common treatment for adults with ADHD however there are other medications that can be helpful as well. Some of these drugs include antidepressants, which have a direct impact on the brain chemical norepinephrine or certain anticholinergics that reduce symptoms by reducing activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Some of these medications are not recommended for children. A neurologist or psychiatrist with expertise should be consulted prior prescribing any of them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy can be helpful in treating ADHD in adults. Therapists can assist individuals and families learn practical skills that will assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organization strategies. They can also offer emotional assistance and teach strategies for coping. People with ADHD often have difficulties with relationships and their families, and marriage therapy can help people discover ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
For some adults, the most effective treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleep habits. A regular bedtime, and a good night's sleep can make a huge difference in their ability to focus and behave, as well as their ability to concentrate.
Other treatment options for ADHD include cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a talk therapy that assists people in changing their habits of thinking and behavior. Lifestyle changes like dietary modifications are also beneficial. A change in diet can help reduce ADHD symptoms in some people, but it should not be undertaken without consulting with your doctor first, as certain supplements and foods can aggravate symptoms or cause them to disappear completely.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adults with ADHD is a mix of psychosocial treatment and medication. The medication helps people focus and organize and make it easier to stay on top of tasks and maintain relationships. Psychosocial treatments help people develop skills that can reduce symptoms and enhance their ability to function in everyday life, like time management and organizing strategies. These treatments are beneficial for those who aren't responding well to medication.
Behavioral coaching is a type of therapy that teaches adults with ADHD practical life skills, including managing their time and finances prioritizing their tasks and improving their organizational skills. In contrast to traditional talk therapy, which focuses on emotional issues the coaches focus solely on helping people manage their behavior. They usually work remotely and don't have the opportunity to meet their clients personally.
Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from other mental disorders, like bipolar or major depression and addiction issues. These conditions can cause significant stress and affect everyday activities, which is why treating them is usually a top priority before starting any ADHD treatment. Some medications that are used to treat other disorders such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and atomoxetine, (Prozac) are also able to aid in treating ADHD.
Some non-medication therapies, such as yoga and meditation can help to reduce the effects of ADHD by improving attention and focus. These calming techniques are often taught in a group or on an individual basis. Other therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talking therapy that aims to change the way someone feels about a specific situation, can be done with a therapist in person or online.
Sleep problems are common in adults suffering from ADHD and a lack of sleep can exacerbate the symptoms. This can be improved by establishing a regular sleeping schedule and avoiding caffeine at late at night.
The most effective treatment for adults ADHD is to combine medication and psychosocial treatment. Some people notice a significant improvement after taking medication, but others might not. Finding the right dose and regimen can take time, so it's important to work with your doctor to ensure that you get the maximum benefit from this treatment.