treating adult add For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medication are used to treat adults with adhd. The medications used include stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. It may take time to determine the appropriate dosage and medication. It is crucial to maintain regular monitoring of your clinical condition.
People with ADHD are more likely to forget appointments and responsibilities. They are also prone to making impulsive choices and have difficulty maintaining relationships. Therapy and classes that help develop the art of communication can be helpful.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medication for treating ADHD in adults. They increase levels of certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters that affect the way we think and react.
Stimulant medications work in about 70% of people with ADHD. They can reduce the intensity of hyperactivity and fidgeting. They can also improve the organization of people and assist them in completing tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can cause serious adverse effects. Some of these effects include headaches, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. These side effects typically fade with time. It is crucial to take stimulant medications in a controlled manner. It's about taking the medication at least three or four times a day, and not missing the dose. It's also crucial to take the exact amount each time and to not overdose. If you don't take your medication in a proper manner can develop resistance to it.
Most stimulants fall into one of two drug classes which are amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are the most popular and have less side effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine, an ingredient that helps people focus their minds and manage their impulses. Amphetamines can be a bit more powerful than methylphenidates and may have more adverse effects, such as dry mouth, weight loss as well as a high heart rate, and increased blood pressure.
Long-acting stimulant medications are the most common treatment of ADHD in adults. These last up to 24 hours. People who use them regularly notice they have better control over their attention, focus and impulse control. They can also make people feel more calm and relaxed. These medications are preferred by the majority of patients over drugs that work in a short time, which can be taken only as required and last for up to four hours. These medications are a great alternative for people who fail to take their medication on a regular basis throughout the day or worry about not taking it at work or school.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants. They can be useful as a starting point for finding the right treatment for you, or they can be used alongside stimulants. They don't have the same danger of abuse and addiction as stimulants, but they can still cause problems like irritability or insomnia. Examples of these medications include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD in adulthood is a kind of talk therapy that can improve self-esteem, relationships and organizational skills. It focuses on changing the negative thoughts that lead to poor behaviors and learning ways to cope. This type of CBT usually is conducted in the context of a group.
A research study found that when those with ADHD took part in a CBT program they were able to manage their time and also their social and work lives. It also decreased symptoms like impulsivity as well as depressive feelings.
Counseling in the family or marriage can help spouses or partners who have ADHD learn to support them without blaming their loved one for the issues caused by ADHD. It can teach them how to manage conflict by being more open about their expectations and requirements.