Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can affect the effectiveness of ADHD medications, and vice versa.
Health care professionals employ standard ADHD scales for assessing symptoms and psychological tests to determine the individual's symptoms. They may recommend physical or lab tests to rule out medical conditions which could trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medicines
The cornerstone of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps patients stay focused, reduce the risk of impulsive behavior and decrease distractions. They improve school, work and family life. They also aid in getting to sleep better, which means they feel more rested in the morning and are less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. Medications are generally used alone or in conjunction with other treatments, such as therapies or changes to diet or lifestyle.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD and help in increasing and balancing levels of specific neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. The two stimulants most commonly used to treat adult ADHD are amphetamine and methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR). Other medications that can be used by adults suffering from ADHD include the non-stimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants like bupropion. Many adults try several different dosages and types of medications to determine which one is most effective for them.
When a person begins taking ADHD medication the drug has a different effect on everyone and it can take a while to find the right combination of medication for them. A nurse or doctor may prescribe a lower dose and then observe the patient's response before recommending a higher dosage. They can alter the dosage to avoid side effects, like stomach upset or drowsiness. They could also suggest a change in the diet and vitamin intake to boost the effectiveness of the medication.
A patient's need for ADHD medication can change over time, particularly when significant life changes take place. Consult your doctor if you are experiencing problems at school or at work. Co-workers, supervisors and teachers are usually accommodating and willing to make small accommodations to help a person with ADHD accomplish their tasks. Regular sleep can also help to improve ADHD symptoms.
A therapist can teach people new strategies to deal with their symptoms and overcome difficulties they are having at work, home or in their relationships. This type of treatment can be carried out in one-on-one sessions or in group therapy and focuses on changing negative behaviors and replacing them with positive ones. Counseling can help family members learn how to support the person with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy, as well as other psychosocial treatments can help improve ADHD symptoms. Most often, medication is used with these treatment methods to enhance the outcomes. Adult ADHD medications include stimulants as well as nonstimulants. The drugs can help you concentrate more effectively, feel more calm and less impulsive. They can also assist them to develop and master new skills. These medications are effective for a majority of people suffering from ADHD and their benefits can last a long time. The medications do not trigger addiction or the formation of habit. However, people who have a history of substance addiction disorders should be examined prior to taking these drugs.
treatment of add with ADHD struggle to focus at school and work which can lead to problems for their careers and relationships. Counseling can help them improve their ability listen, concentrate, and follow instructions in the workplace or at school. This can improve their performance and build confidence in themselves. Some therapy specialists specialize in working with people who suffer from ADHD.
Individually, in a group or with family members, behavioral therapy is possible. Behavioral therapy is the process of modifying the environment to be conducive to concentration and focus and assisting people to recognize what triggers problematic behaviors and what motivates them to engage in. It could also involve training in coping techniques as well as exposure therapy to help people overcome certain fears.
Therapists can help with the emotional issues associated with ADHD. They can also help you learn strategies to improve your family and marriage life. They can help you manage money, prioritize tasks, and cope with daily stress. They can help people understand ADHD and help their families on how to support the person who has it.
Some people who suffer from ADHD are also prone to depression or anxiety disorders. These conditions can be difficult to manage. These disorders that are comorbid can make it harder to cope with the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough medical history is necessary to determine whether any of the underlying issues are contributing to the symptoms of ADHD. Patients with a history of developmental disorders, seizures hearing or vision issues and sleep apnea should undergo a attentive evaluation and, if necessary, other treatment options.
Medication Tests
The most effective way to treat ADHD is by increasing the brain's chemical dopamine and norepinephrine. These molecules help transmit messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. The doctors are not able to know beforehand which drug will be most effective for an individual, but they can determine which drug and dosage is the most effective through a medication trial. The trial typically begins with a low dose which is gradually increased at 3-7 days intervals until the clinical benefits are evident.
A thorough medical history is vital because numerous medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders mental disorders, psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression, learning and language deficits, and medical issues like thyroid disorders as well as lead poisoning, hearing or vision loss.
Stimulant drugs are the most frequently used treatment for adults with ADHD however, there are other medications that can be helpful as well. These may include antidepressants that directly affect the brain chemical norepinephrine or certain anticholinergic medications that reduce symptoms by decreasing the activity of the dopamine neurotransmitter. Some of these drugs 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 help people and their families develop skills to help them manage their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organizational strategies. They can also provide emotional assistance and teach strategies for coping. Individuals with ADHD often have difficulties with relationships and their families, and marriage therapy can help people learn constructive methods of communicating and resolving conflicts.
The most effective treatment for ADHD for some adults is to improve their sleeping habits. A regular bedtime and enough quality sleep can make a massive difference in their ability to focus, behave and concentrate.
Other treatment options for ADHD in adults include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a talking therapy that assists people in changing their thinking patterns and behaviors, and lifestyle changes, such as diet modification. Some people can reduce ADHD symptoms by changing their diet, but you should consult 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 medication. The medication helps people stay focused and organized and makes it easier to maintain relationships and stay on top of their tasks. Psychosocial treatments help people learn strategies that can lessen their symptoms and improve how they perform in their daily lives like time management and organizing strategies. These treatments can be beneficial to people who don't respond well to medications.
Behavioral coaching is a kind of therapy that teaches adults with ADHD practical life skills, like managing their time and finances as well as prioritizing tasks and enhancing their organizational skills. In contrast to traditional talk therapy, that focuses on emotional issues they focus on helping people manage their behavior. They often work remotely and don't meet their clients personally.
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from other mental disorders, like bipolar or major depression and substance abuse issues. These disorders can cause a lot of anxiety and affect daily functioning, so treating these conditions is usually prior to beginning any ADHD treatment. Certain medications used to treat other disorders, like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and atomoxetine (Prozac) can aid with ADHD.
Yoga and meditation are non-medication treatments that can help to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing focus and attention and reducing impulsivity. These calming techniques can be taught to groups or individuals. Other treatments, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a kind of talk therapy that tries to change how someone feels about a situation and can be done with a therapist, either in person or on the internet.
Sleep issues are common in adults suffering from ADHD and a lack of sleep can exacerbate the symptoms. Setting a regular schedule for sleep and avoiding caffeine in the evenings can help improve this.
The most effective treatment for adults with ADHD is the combination of psychosocial therapy and medication. Some people notice a dramatic improvement after taking medication, but others might not. It can take some time to determine the appropriate dosage and regimen. Work with your doctor to reap the maximum benefit.