Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can impact how ADHD medications work and vice the other way around.
Health professionals use standardized ADHD symptoms rating scales and psychological tests to evaluate an individual's symptoms. They may recommend lab or medical exams to determine if there is a medical condition that can cause symptoms similar to those experienced by ADHD.
Medications
The foundation of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps people focus, decrease impulsive behaviors and reduce distractions. They can help improve your work, family, and school life. They also aid in sleeping better, so they are more rested and less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. Medications can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments such as diet, therapy, or lifestyle adjustments.
Stimulants, which are the most commonly used medication prescribed for ADHD help by increasing and balancing certain chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters. The two stimulants 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 can be used for adults with ADHD include the nonstimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants, such as bupropion. Many adults test a variety of medication types and doses to determine what is the most effective for them.
If a person begins taking ADHD medication, the drug affects everyone differently and it may take some time to find the appropriate dosage for the individual. A nurse or doctor may prescribe a lower dose and then monitor the patient's response to it before prescribing a higher dose. They may adjust the dosage to avoid side effects, including stomach upset or drowsiness. They could suggest a change to diet and vitamins to improve the medication's effectiveness.
The necessity for ADHD medication may change as time passes. This is particularly when a patient has significant life changes. Consult your doctor if having problems at school or at work. Supervisors and coworkers are usually understanding and willing make small adjustments for those who suffers from ADHD to perform their duties. Being on a regular sleeping schedule can dramatically improve the symptoms of ADHD.
Therapists can help people learn new skills to cope with their symptoms and overcome difficulties they face at work, home or in their relationships. This type of therapy can be conducted one-on-one or in an environment with a group and focuses on changing the negative behavior into positive ones. Counseling can also assist family members understand how to help someone who has ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial treatments may improve the symptoms of ADHD. Most often, medication is used with these treatment methods to improve the results. The medications used to treat adult ADHD include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. The drugs can help you concentrate better, feel more relaxed and less impulsive. They can also help them develop new skills and practice. The majority of people suffering from ADHD respond well to these drugs and the benefits can last for a long time. The medications are not habit-forming and they do not cause addiction. Patients with a history of addiction disorders to substances should be evaluated carefully before taking these drugs.
Many adults with ADHD struggle to concentrate at work and at school. treating adults with adhd can have a negative impact on their relationships and careers. Counseling can help them learn ways to improve their ability to concentrate, listen and follow directions at work or in school. This can improve their performance and help improve their confidence. Some therapy specialists specialize in working with people who suffer from ADHD.
In a group, on your own or with family members, behavior therapy is a possibility. Behavioral therapy is the process of modifying the environment to be conducive to concentration and focus, and teaching people to identify what reinforces problem behaviors and what motivates them. It may also include training in coping techniques and exposure therapy, which helps people overcome their anxiety and fears.
A therapist can assist with the many emotional issues that come with ADHD. They can also help you develop strategies to improve family life and marriage and managing finances, prioritizing tasks and coping with the stresses of daily life. They can also assist individuals and their families understand ADHD and provide strategies to support someone with it.
Some people with ADHD also develop anxiety or depression disorders. These conditions can be difficult to manage. These comorbid conditions can make it difficult to deal with the symptoms of ADHD. To determine if there are underlying conditions that may be contributing to the symptoms, a thorough medical history needs to be conducted. People who have a history of developmental disorders, seizures, hearing or vision problems and sleep apnea require a more thorough evaluation, and may require other treatment options.
Medication Tests
Medications most effectively improve the most fundamental symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine (brain molecules that aid in the transmission of 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 drug will be most efficient, but they can find out which medication is most efficient. treating add in adults starts with a low dosage that is slowly increased at 3-7 day intervals until clinical benefits are realized.
It is crucial to take an accurate medical history since a number of medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include mental disorders and developmental disorders such as depression, anxiety learning and communication problems and medical problems like thyroid disorder and lead poisoning, hearing or vision loss, and other medical conditions.
There are a variety of drugs that can be used to treat adults suffering from ADHD. The most commonly used are stimulant medicines. However, there are others as well. These include antidepressants which have a direct effect on the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine, or certain anticholinergic agents that decrease symptoms by reducing the activity of the dopamine neurotransmitter. Certain of these drugs are not recommended for use in children, so an experienced neurologist or psychiatrist is recommended when prescribing them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy is a great option in treating ADHD in adults. Therapists can assist individuals and families learn practical techniques to aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organizational strategies. They can also offer emotional support and teach coping techniques. People with ADHD frequently have difficulty relating to others, and family and therapy for marriage can help discover ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
The most effective treatment for ADHD for some adults is to improve sleep habits. Being consistent with their bedtimes and a good quality sleep can make a significant difference in their ability to focus, concentrate and behave.
Other treatments for ADHD include cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a talk therapy which helps people change their behavior and thinking patterns. Lifestyle changes such as dietary modification are also effective. A change in diet can help reduce ADHD symptoms in some people, but it should not be done without consulting your physician first, since certain food items and supplements can cause symptoms or cause them to disappear completely.
Other Treatments
Adult ADHD is treated through the use of psychosocial therapy and medication. The medication assists people in staying focused and organized which makes it easier to maintain relationships and keep up with their work. Psychosocial treatments can teach people techniques that can help reduce symptoms and enhance their capacity to function in daily life, like time management and organizational strategies. People who aren't responding to medication may benefit from these treatments as well.
Behavioral coaching is a form of therapy that teaches adults with ADHD practical life skills, like managing their time and money, prioritizing tasks and improving their organizational abilities. These coaches aren't like traditional talk therapy that is focused on emotional issues. Instead, they assist clients manage their behavior. Most often, these coaches are remote and don't meet with their clients in person.
Many people with ADHD also have other mental disorders, like bipolar disorder or major depression and substance abuse issues. These conditions can cause a lot of stress and affect daily functions, so treating them is typically a top priority before starting any ADHD treatment. Certain medications used to treat other disorders, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and atomoxetine, (Prozac) are also able to help with ADHD.
Some non-medication therapies, such as yoga and meditation can help reduce the effects of ADHD by improving concentration and attention. These calming techniques are often taught in a group or individually. Other therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that seeks to change the way people feel about a specific situation and can be conducted by a therapist in person or on the internet.
Sleep issues are common in people with ADHD and a lack of sleep can exacerbate the symptoms. This can be ameliorated by establishing a regular sleeping schedule and avoiding caffeine during the late at night.
The most effective treatment for adults ADHD involves both psychosocial and medication treatment. Some people see dramatic improvements with medication, while others may not experience any improvement at all. It may take some time to find the right dosage and regimen. Work with your doctor to reap the maximum benefit.