Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety. These issues can affect the effectiveness of ADHD medications and vice versa.
To evaluate adhd untreated in adults of a patient Health care professionals use the standardized ADHD rating scales and psychometric tests. They may suggest medical or lab tests to rule out medical conditions that can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medicines
The foundation of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps people stay focused, reduce impulse-driven behaviors, and eliminate distractions. They can improve your family, work and school life. They also help people sleep better, so they are more relaxed and less likely to make bad decisions throughout the day. They can be taken on their own or in combination with other treatments such as diet, therapy, or lifestyle changes.
Stimulants, the most common medication used to treat ADHD, work by increasing and balancing certain brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. The two stimulants most frequently used for adult ADHD are amphetamine and methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR). Adults with ADHD can also be treated with antidepressants such as bupropion and atomoxetine which are non-stimulant. Adults often experiment with different types of medications and dosages to find the best fit for them.
If a person begins taking ADHD medication it affects everyone differently and it may take some time to determine the best combination of medication for the individual. A nurse or doctor typically start with a lower dose and monitor the person's response before prescribing more. They might alter the dosage to avoid side effects, like stomach upset or drowsiness. They may also suggest changing your diet or vitamins to make the medication more effective.
The necessity for ADHD medication can change as time passes. This is especially true if a patient experiences significant life changes. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing difficulties at school or at work. Supervisors and coworkers are typically accommodating and will make small accommodations for a person who suffers from ADHD to do their job. Being on a regular sleeping schedule can dramatically improve the symptoms of ADHD.
A therapist can teach people new techniques to manage their issues and overcome the challenges they face at work, home or in their relationships. This kind of therapy can be conducted one-on-one or in a group setting and focuses on changing the negative behavior into positive ones. Counseling can help family members understand how to support those with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial therapies can help alleviate symptoms of ADHD. In many cases, medications are combined with these methods of treatment to improve outcomes. Adult ADHD medications include stimulants and nonstimulants. The drugs can help you focus better, feel calmer and less impulsive. They can also help them learn and develop new skills. These drugs are effective for the majority of people suffering from ADHD and their effects can last a long time. The drugs do not trigger addiction or habit formation. However, people with a history of substance use disorders should be evaluated before starting these medicines.
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle to focus at work and school which can lead to issues for their careers as well as relationships. Counseling can teach them how to improve their ability to listen, concentrate and follow directions at school or at work. This can help improve their performance and increase their confidence in themselves. Some therapy specialists specialize in working with people who suffer from ADHD.
Behavior therapy can be done by individuals, in groups or with family members. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to help it be more conducive to focus, concentration and learning. It also involves teaching people to recognize what reinforces and triggers problematic behaviors. It may also include training in coping strategies and exposure therapy to help people overcome certain fears.
Therapists can help with the emotional issues that are associated with ADHD. They can also teach you strategies to improve your family and marriage life. They can help you manage money, organize your tasks, and cope with everyday stress. They can assist people in understanding ADHD and help their family members on how to support the person with it.
Some people suffering from ADHD suffer from anxiety and depression disorders, which can be difficult to treat. These comorbidities can make it harder to cope with ADHD symptoms. To find out if there are existing conditions contributing to the symptoms an extensive medical history must be taken. People with histories of seizures, developmental disorder hearing or sight issues as well as sleep apnea, require an additional evaluation, and perhaps other treatment.
Medication Tests
Medications most effectively improve the core symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine (brain molecules that help in the transmission of messages from one brain cell to another). Practitioners cannot know in advance which medication is most effective for a particular person, but they can determine which medication and the dosage that is most effective by conducting a trial. The trial typically starts with a low dosage that is gradually increased over 3-7 days intervals until clinical benefits are realized.
It is essential to have a a thorough medical history, as many medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders, psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression, problems with language and learning and certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders as well as lead poisoning, hearing or vision loss.
Stimulant medication is the most commonly used treatment for adults with ADHD, but there are other medications that may help. Certain of these medications are 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 medications 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 beneficial in treating ADHD for adults. Therapists can help people and families develop practical techniques to assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organizational strategies. They can also provide emotional support and teach coping techniques. People with ADHD often have difficulties with relationships and their families, and therapy for marriage can help learn constructive methods of communicating and resolving conflicts.
For some adults, the most important treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleep habits. Having a regular bedtime and getting enough quality sleep can make a big difference in their ability to concentrate, focus and behave.
Other treatments for ADHD in adults include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a talking therapy that helps people alter their behavior patterns and thinking patterns as well as lifestyle changes such as dietary modification. A change in diet can help reduce ADHD symptoms for certain people however, it shouldn't be done without consulting a doctor first, as certain food items and supplements can cause symptoms or cause them to disappear completely.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adults with ADHD is a mix of psychosocial treatment and medication. The medication helps people stay organized and focused which makes it easier to maintain relationships and keep up with their work. Psychosocial treatments aid people in learning strategies that can lessen their symptoms and improve how they function in daily life including managing time and organizing strategies. These treatments are beneficial for people who aren't responding well to medications.
Behavioral coaching is a form of therapy that teaches adults suffering from ADHD practical life skills, including managing their time and money, prioritizing tasks and improving their organizational skills. Contrary to traditional talk therapy which focuses on emotional issues, these coaches focus exclusively on helping people manage their behavior. Often, these coaches work from a distance and don't meet their clients in person.
Many people who suffer from ADHD have other mental health disorders, like bipolar disorder, major depression and substance abuse problems. These conditions can cause severe anxiety and affect everyday functioning, so addressing these conditions is usually an important factor prior to starting any ADHD treatment. Some medications that are used to treat other disorders, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), and atomoxetine, (Prozac) can help with ADHD.
Meditation and yoga are non-medicinal treatments that can reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing focus and attention and reducing impulsivity. These calming techniques are often taught in a class or individually. Other therapies, like cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT) is a type of therapy aimed at helping change the way someone feels about a particular situation and can be conducted with a therapist in person or via online.
Sleep issues are common among adults with ADHD and a poor quality of sleep can cause 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 experience a dramatic improvement after taking medication, whereas others might not. It may take some time to find the right dosage and regimen. Consult with your physician to reap the maximum benefit.