Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can affect how well ADHD medications work and vice versa.
Health care professionals employ the same standardized ADHD symptoms rating scales and psychological tests to assess the symptoms of an individual. They may recommend physical or lab tests to rule out medical conditions that could cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medicines
The mainstay of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps patients stay focused, reduce the risk of impulsive behavior and decrease distractions. They can improve your work, family, and school life. They also aid in getting to sleep more easily, meaning they are more rested in the morning and are less likely to make poor choices throughout the day. Medications can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as therapy, diet 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 that are most commonly prescribed for adult ADHD include methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin XR, Concerta, Adderall XR, and Focalin XR) and amphetamine. Other medications that are utilized by adults suffering from ADHD include the non-stimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants like bupropion. Adults often experiment with different types of medication and dosages to determine which one is the most suitable for them.
If a person begins taking ADHD medication the drug affects everyone differently, and it can take a while to find the right dosage for them. A nurse or doctor will usually start with a lower dose and then monitor the person's reaction before prescribing more. They can alter the dosage to avoid side effects, like drowsiness or stomach upset. They could also suggest changes to diet and supplements to increase the medication's effectiveness.
The need of a patient for ADHD medication could change over time, especially if significant life changes occur. Consult your doctor if you are experiencing difficulties at work or in school. Co-workers and supervisors are often understanding and willing make small accommodations for a person with ADHD to perform their duties. Being on a regular sleeping schedule can also dramatically improve the symptoms of ADHD.
A therapist can help people develop new skills to cope and overcome their problems, whether at work, in their home, or in their relationships. This type of therapy may be done one-on-one or in groups 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, along with other psychosocial treatments, can help improve ADHD symptoms. In many cases, medications are combined with these methods of treatment to enhance the outcomes. Adult ADHD medication includes stimulants and nonstimulants. The medications can help you concentrate more effectively, feel more calm and be less in a state of impulsivity. They also aid in helping them develop and master new skills. Many people suffering from ADHD respond well to these medications and the benefits last for a long time. The medications do not cause addiction or create a habit. People with a history or substance abuse disorders should be evaluated carefully before taking these drugs.
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle to focus at work or in school. This can have a negative effect on their career and relationships. Counseling can help them learn ways to improve their ability to listen, concentrate and follow directions at school or at work. This can improve their performance and help them improve their confidence. Therapists are trained to work with people with ADHD.
In a group, on your own or with family members, behavioral therapy is possible. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to be conducive to focus and concentration and assisting people to recognize what triggers problematic behaviors and what is motivating them to engage in. It could also include training in coping skills as well as exposure therapy, which aids people overcome certain fears and anxieties.
A therapist can assist with the emotional issues that are caused by ADHD. They can also help you learn strategies to improve your marriage and family life. They can help you manage your money, organize your tasks, and cope with everyday stress. They can assist people in understanding ADHD and help their families on how to help the person with it.
Certain people with ADHD may also suffer from anxiety or depression disorders. These conditions can be difficult to treat. These comorbid conditions can make it more difficult to cope with ADHD symptoms. To find out if there are existing conditions contributing to the symptoms and a thorough medical history should be taken. People who have a history of developmental disorders, seizures or hearing or vision problems and sleep apnea should undergo a careful evaluation and possibly other treatment options.
Medication Tests
The most effective method to treat ADHD is to increase the brain's chemical dopamine and norepinephrine. These molecules aid in transmitting messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. A trial of medication allows doctors to determine the best medication for an individual. They are unable to predict which medication will be most effective, but they will determine which one is most efficient. The trial usually starts with a low dose that is slowly increased at 3-7 days intervals until the clinical benefits are evident.
It is essential to have a an accurate medical history because a variety of medical conditions could mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include the development of disorders and psychiatric illnesses like depression, anxiety, learning and communication deficits as well as medical problems like thyroid disorder, hearing or vision loss, and other medical conditions.
There are a myriad of medications that can be utilized to treat people suffering from ADHD. The most popular are stimulant medicines. However there are other options too. Some of these drugs include antidepressants, which have a direct impact on the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine or certain anticholinergics that can reduce symptoms by reducing the activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. 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 is a great option in treating ADHD for adults. Therapists can instruct families and individuals practical techniques to help manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizational strategies. They can also provide emotional support and teach strategies for coping. Therapy for marriage and family is a great option to help people with ADHD learn how to communicate effectively and manage conflicts.
For many adults, the most important treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleeping habits. A regular bedtime, and enough quality sleep can make a significant difference in their ability to focus and behave, as well as their ability to concentrate.
Other treatments for ADHD for adults include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is a type of talk therapy that assists people in changing their thinking patterns and behaviors as well as lifestyle changes like dietary modification. Some people can lessen ADHD symptoms by altering their diet, but you should consult with your doctor before making any changes. Certain supplements and foods can aggravate symptoms, or even cause them to disappear.
Other Treatments
Adult ADHD is treated using a combination of psychosocial therapy and medication. The medication assists people in staying organized and focused, which helps them maintain relationships and keep up with their tasks. Psychosocial treatments can help people develop skills that can reduce their symptoms and improve the way they function in everyday life like time management and organizing strategies. These treatments are beneficial to people who aren't responding well to medication.
Behavioral coaching is a form 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 abilities. Contrary to traditional talk therapy that focuses on emotional issues, these coaches focus exclusively on helping clients manage their behavior. Often, these coaches work from a distance 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 issues with substance abuse. These conditions can cause severe distress and interfere with daily functioning, therefore addressing these issues is usually prior to beginning any ADHD treatment. Some medications that are used to treat other disorders such as website bupropion, (Wellbutrin) and atomoxetine, (Prozac), can also aid with ADHD.
Yoga and meditation are non-medicinal treatments that can reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing attention and focus and decreasing impulsivity. These techniques for calming can be taught to individuals or groups. Other therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a type of talking therapy that aims to change how someone feels about the situation and can be done with a therapist, either in person or on the internet.
Sleep problems are common in adults with ADHD and a poor quality of sleep can worsen the symptoms. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and avoiding caffeine in the evenings can help to improve this.
The most effective treatment for adults with ADHD is the combination of medication and psychosocial treatment. Some people notice a dramatic improvement after taking medication, whereas others might not. Finding the appropriate dose and regimen may take some time, so it's vital to work with your doctor to ensure that you get the maximum benefit from this treatment.