Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can affect how well ADHD medications work and vice versa.
To assess a person's symptoms health professionals employ standardized ADHD rating scales and psychometric tests. They may recommend physical or lab tests to rule out medical problems which could trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medications
The mainstay of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps people stay focused, reduce impulse-driven behaviors, and eliminate distractions. They can enhance your family, work and school life. They also aid in sleeping better so that they feel more relaxed and less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. Medications can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as diet, therapy or lifestyle modifications.
Stimulants, the most popular medication used to treat ADHD, work by increasing and balancing certain brain chemicals 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 try several different dosages and types of medications to find 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 doctor or nurse might prescribe a lower dosage and then monitor the patient's reaction to it before prescribing a higher dose. They may adjust the dose to prevent side effects such as drowsiness or stomach upset. They may also suggest a change in the diet or supplements to increase the effectiveness of the medication.
The necessity for ADHD medication can change over time. This is especially true if a patient experiences significant changes in their life. Talk to your doctor if you're experiencing difficulties at school or at work. Co-workers and supervisors are often open and willing to make minor accommodations for a person who suffers from ADHD to perform their duties. Regular sleep can also aid in improving ADHD symptoms.
Therapists can help people learn new strategies to deal with their symptoms and overcome difficulties they are having at home, work or in their relationships. This kind of therapy can be conducted one-on-one or in a group setting and focuses on changing negative behavior into positive ones. Counseling can also assist family members learn how to support someone with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy, in addition to other psychosocial treatments can help improve ADHD symptoms. Often, medication is combined with these treatment methods to enhance the outcomes. Adult ADHD medications include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. The drugs can help you concentrate better, feel calmer and less impulsive. They may also help them learn and develop new techniques. Most people suffering from ADHD respond well to these medications and the benefits last for an extended period of time. The medication does not trigger addiction or the formation of habit. Patients with a history of substance abuse disorders must be assessed carefully prior to taking these medications.
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle to concentrate at work and school and can create problems for their careers and relationships. natural add treatment can teach them ways to improve their ability to concentrate, listen and follow directions at work or in school. This can help improve their performance and increase their confidence in themselves. Some therapy professionals specialize in working with those who suffer from ADHD.
In a group, on your own or with family members, behavioral therapy is a possibility. Behavioral therapy is the process of modifying the environment to be more conducive to concentration and focus, and teaching people to recognize what triggers problematic behaviors and what is motivating them. It may also include training in coping techniques and exposure therapy, which can help people overcome certain anxiety and fears.
A therapist can help with the emotional issues associated with ADHD. They can also teach you strategies to improve your family and marriage life. They can help you manage your money, organize your tasks, and cope with daily stress. They can also assist individuals and their families understand ADHD and provide strategies to support someone with the condition.
Some people suffering from ADHD have anxiety and depression disorders, which can be difficult to manage. These comorbid conditions can make it more difficult to manage ADHD symptoms. A thorough medical history is needed to determine whether any underlying conditions are contributing to the symptoms of ADHD. Patients with a history of developmental disorder, seizures, hearing or sight problems, and sleep apnea require more careful assessment, and may require additional treatment.
Medication Trials
The most effective medications can improve the most fundamental symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine (brain molecules that facilitate the transmission of messages from one neuron (brain cell to another). A medication trial allows practitioners to determine which medication is the best for an individual. They are unable to predict which medicine will be the most effective, but they can find out which medication is most effective. The trial starts with a small dose and is gradually increased over 3-7 days until the clinical benefits have been achieved.
It is crucial to take an accurate medical history as many medical conditions can be a source of symptoms similar to ADHD. These include the development of disorders and psychiatric illnesses such as anxiety, depression, learning and communication deficits and medical issues like thyroid disorders, lead poisoning, hearing loss or vision loss and many other medical conditions.
There are a myriad of medications that can be used to treat adults with ADHD. The most common are stimulant medicines. However there are other medications too. Some of these drugs include antidepressants that have a direct impact on the brain chemical norepinephrine or certain anticholinergics that can reduce symptoms by reducing 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 among adults. Therapists can instruct families and individuals practical techniques to help manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizing strategies. They can also offer emotional assistance and teach strategies for coping. Individuals with ADHD often have difficulties with relationships and family, and marriage therapy can help them discover ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
For certain adults, the best treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleeping habits. Having a regular bedtime and getting enough quality sleep can make a big difference in their ability to concentrate, focus and behave.
Other treatment options for ADHD include cognitive behavioral therapy, a talking therapy that assists people in changing their behavior and thinking patterns. Lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications are also efficient. Some people can reduce ADHD symptoms by changing their diet, however, it is recommended to consult with your doctor before making any changes. Certain foods and supplements may worsen symptoms, or even cause them to disappear.
Other Treatments
Adult ADHD is treated with the use of psychosocial therapy and medications. The medication assists people in staying focused and organized which helps them maintain relationships and manage their work. Psychosocial treatments help people learn strategies that can lessen their symptoms and improve how they function in everyday life like managing time and organizing strategies. These treatments can be beneficial to people who aren't responding well to medication.
Behavioral coaching is a kind of therapy that teaches adults suffering from ADHD practical life skills, like managing their time and money, prioritizing tasks and improving their organizational skills. Unlike traditional talk therapy, that focuses on emotional issues, these coaches focus exclusively on helping people manage their behavior. They often are remote and don't meet their clients in person.
Many people who suffer from ADHD are also suffering from mental health disorders, like bipolar disorder, major depression and substance abuse problems. These disorders can cause a lot of anxiety and affect daily functioning, so treating these issues is usually a 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.
Certain non-medicative therapies, such as meditation and yoga, can help calm the effects of ADHD by decreasing impulsivity and increasing concentration and attention. These techniques for calming are typically taught in a group or on an individual basis. Other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type therapy aimed at helping change the way someone feels about a specific situation is possible with a therapist in person or on the internet.
Sleep problems are common in adults suffering from ADHD and a poor quality of sleep can exacerbate the symptoms. Setting a regular schedule for sleep and staying away from caffeine at night can help reduce this.
The most effective treatment for adult ADHD involves both psychosocial and medication treatment. Some people see dramatic improvements with medication, while others may not notice any change at all. It may take a while to find the right dosage and regimen. Work with your doctor to reap the maximum benefit.