ADHD Treatments For Adults
Stimulants, such as amphetamine and methylphenidate, are the first option that doctors recommend. They can help regulate levels of two chemical messengers within the brain. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants also may help reduce symptoms, but they operate more slowly.
Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help adults acquire skills to improve organization and planning. Psychotherapy and coaching can also help improve social functioning.
Medicines
If you have ADHD you may benefit from taking medication to treat your symptoms. Some people feel better after altering their diets or taking supplements. However they should only be taken under the supervision of a physician. Psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or family counseling are all viable solutions. Certain adults with ADHD have difficulty staying on medication however, they should speak to their doctor and seek help. Certain medications are available over the counter, while others require prescription.
Most ADHD medications work by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. This reduces impulsivity and improves concentration. Some of the most common medications are stimulants such as dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate and others. They are believed to be the most effective in ADHD treatment, but they do have side effects. Cardiovascular problems are some of the more serious adverse effects. The stimulant medication can also trigger antics, such as eye blinking or throat clearing. These medications can also slow growth by a few months in children and teenagers.
Nonstimulant medications are prescribed to people who suffer from insufferable side-effects of stimulants, or are at risk of developing heart disease. adhd treatment for adults are typically dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists. They aren't as efficient as stimulants, however they are safe and don't have the potential for abuse that some people have with stimulant medications.
You can attempt to lessen your ADHD symptoms without medication by following a planned schedule, creating and adhering to a budget, developing organizational skills, learning more about your condition and implementing strategies to manage your symptoms. It is recommended to talk with an expert to find out the best approach to managing your disorder, and you will find plenty of helpful resources on the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Association website.
Your ADHD symptoms can strain your relationships. Talking to a therapist about the way you interact with your family members or friends and taking classes to learn conflict resolution can help. You can improve your relationships with your family members or friends by having them understand your ADHD and telling them that your behavior is not intentional.
Therapy
ADHD as an adult can have significant social, emotional, and occupational repercussions. These include lower academic achievement, higher rates for job failure and transfer and poor work performance. There are also more car accidents and higher divorce rates than the general population. Adults who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety or addiction to drugs. Patients with multiple conditions may be more difficult to respond to stimulant medication (Barkley & Gordon 2002).
It is important to have an in-depth background of the patient since a variety of medical conditions may have symptoms similar to ADHD. Patients with developmental disorders, seizure disorders, sleep apnea thyroid disorders and lead poisoning must be cautiously assessed. Treatment with stimulants is not recommended in patients with active substance abuse or in those with certain medical conditions, including heart disease or high blood pressure, arrhythmias and tachycardia (Greenhill 2001).).
Psychosocial therapy for adults with ADHD includes psychoeducation and behavioral therapy. Psychoeducation is the process of educating patients about their condition, including its effects on different aspects of their lives and relationships. Psychoeducation can also help improve self-esteem among patients who typically are stigmatized, for example, being viewed as inept or unintelligent.
The aim of a behavioral therapy for adults with ADHD is to enhance their organizational skills and help them learn better ways to manage their time. This can help reduce the risk of missing appointments or making decisions impulsively that could create problems at school, at work or with their personal lives. This kind of therapy could aid in improving the effectiveness of an individual's interactions with their spouses, children and colleagues.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy for adults suffering from ADHD is geared towards helping individuals change their behaviors. This type of therapy is extremely efficient in improving the performance of those suffering from ADHD especially when coupled with psychoeducation and family therapy. The process of educating patients and close friends about ADHD can help reduce the tendency to blame one another for the issues caused by the person's inability to manage his or her behavior. Classes that teach couples and families how to communicate better and resolve conflicts can be beneficial.
Counseling
A good treatment plan will address the signs of ADHD and their effects on work, school, and family. It will include stimulant and nonstimulant medication as well as psychosocial therapy, notably cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps patients change their thinking about their behavior. It also teaches them how to manage their symptoms and improve their relationships with family and friends.
The stimulant medications used to treat ADHD boost and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They've been around for a long period of time, and there are a variety of kinds of drugs each with their distinct advantages and negative effects. The two most frequently prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. These are sold under various brand names, including Ritalin and Adderall. Viloxazine is a selective reuptake inhibitor. Atomoxetine enhances the amount of a brain chemical that transmits messages between brain cells. Atomoxetine and viloxazine are often used to treat ADHD in adults since they are less likely to cause symptoms than stimulants. They are also available for people who can't take stimulants due to other health problems or who suffer from serious adverse effects.
It is important to remember that comorbid conditions can cause ADHD symptoms. Therefore the severity and presence of other conditions must be taken into consideration when diagnosing ADHD. It is important to determine the cause of the symptoms, including thyroid disorders, hearing and sight problems.
Some patients may also be able to lessen their ADHD symptoms by making changes to their diet. It's important to consult a doctor before eliminating any foods. This could result in nutritional deficiencies and should only be done under the supervision of a physician or dietician. Counseling can also assist patients cope with their symptoms, and improve their relationships with their families. Counseling can also assist spouses in understanding that the patient's actions are not necessarily indicative of a lack of love or willful misconduct.
Education
The diagnosis of ADHD can be a bit confusing for both the patient and the doctor. It is not uncommon for other mental health disorders to coexist the disorder. Additionally, certain medications and medical conditions may cause symptoms that resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
Many of these problems can be addressed with treatment or lifestyle changes. A person suffering from ADHD may benefit by taking supplements or altering their diet to improve their eating habits. Behavioral therapy will teach him how to better resist distractions, impulsiveness, and improve the focus of his mind. A doctor may suggest cognitive-behavioral (CBT) therapy or mindfulness meditation, which can both aid in regulating emotions and increase concentration.
A thorough history of symptoms and a physical exam are crucial. A doctor can also examine the patient for sleep apnea, hearing or vision problems, thyroid disorders as well as lead poisoning, drug or alcohol abuse. These assessments will not only aid in determining the presence of an underlying disorder, but also decrease or eliminate the effects of other disorders that can contribute to the ADHD-like behavior.
The majority of stimulants are prescribed by doctors for ADHD. These include methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine Concerta and Adderall. Other non-stimulant drugs include clonidine as well as guanfacine. These blood pressure medication can help with hyperactivity and impulsivity, but may take longer to work and may cause side effects such as constipation, heartburn, and low sex desire.
People suffering from ADHD frequently have trouble keeping appointments and are often late to work and make irrational decisions that can be a challenge for even the most forgiving friends and relatives. Couples therapy or classes that improve communication skills can help people establish solid relationships.
Exercise, diet and stress reduction can all play a part in managing ADHD symptoms. Certain people suffering from the condition have found that removing certain foods or taking supplements can help them, but it's crucial to consult with a doctor before trying these therapies. If you try this without consulting a doctor, it could lead to nutritional deficiency and other health issues.