ADHD Treatments For Adults
Stimulants, such as methylphenidate and amphetamine, are the first treatment that doctors recommend. They aid in balancing the levels of two chemical messengers within the brain. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants may help alleviate symptoms, but they do so more slowly.
Psychotherapy, along with cognitive behavioral therapy, aids adults improve their planning and organizational abilities. Coaching and psychotherapy are also effective in improving social functioning.
Medicines
If you have ADHD you may benefit from medications to manage the symptoms. Some people may be able to improve their condition by changing their diet or taking supplements, however they should only be taken under the guidance of a physician. Psychotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) or family counseling are all viable solutions. Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle to adhere to their medication. They should speak to their doctor and seek assistance. Some medications are available over-the-counter and some require a prescription.
Most ADHD medications work by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. This reduces impulsivity, and increases concentration. The most well-known medications are stimulants, such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. They are believed to be the most effective for ADHD treatment, however they do have side effects. Cardiovascular issues are among the more serious side effects. The stimulant medication can also trigger symptoms like eye blinking and throat clearing. These medications may also delay growth in children and adolescents by a few months.
Nonstimulant medicines are prescribed to those who suffer from adverse reactions to stimulants that are not tolerated or are at risk of developing heart problems. These medications include dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists. They're not as effective as stimulants, but they are safe and don't carry the potential for abuse as some people have with stimulant drugs.
You can try to reduce your ADHD symptoms without medication by following a well-planned schedule, establishing and adhering to a budget, enhancing the organization skills, learning more about your condition, and developing strategies for dealing with your symptoms. It is recommended to talk with an expert to learn the best method to manage your condition, and you will find plenty of helpful resources on the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Association website.
Your ADHD symptoms can strain your relationships. You can improve your relationships by talking to a therapist or taking classes in conflict resolution. You can improve your relationships with your spouse or co-workers by helping them understand your ADHD and telling them that your behavior is not malicious.
Therapy
ADHD in adulthood has significant emotional, social and occupational consequences. These include lower academic achievements and higher rates of job failure and transfer and poor performance at work. Additionally, there are more car accidents and higher divorce rates than the general population. Adults suffering from ADHD are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression or substance abuse. Those with comorbid conditions may have a harder time responding to stimulant medications (Barkley & Gordon, 2002).
A thorough history of the patient is vital, as many medical conditions may have symptoms similar to symptoms of ADHD. Patients suffering from seizures, developmental disorders, sleep apnea and thyroid disorders should be evaluated more carefully. The use of stimulants is not recommended for those who abuse drugs or those suffering from certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, arrhythmias and tachycardia (Greenhill 2001).
Psychosocial therapy for adults with ADHD includes psychoeducation and behavioral therapy. Psychoeducation is the process of informing patients about their disorder and its effects on their lives. Psychoeducation can help patients improve their self-esteem, particularly those who are frequently viewed as being inept or unintelligent.
treat adult adhd of the therapy for adults who suffer from ADHD is to enhance their abilities to manage their time and teach them better ways to manage their time. This can reduce the chances of missing appointments or making impulsive choices that can cause problems in the workplace, at school or with their personal lives. This type of therapy may improve the relationship of a person with their family, friends, spouse and colleagues.
Cognitive-behavioral treatment for adults who suffer from ADHD is geared towards helping people change their negative behaviors. This type of therapy is very effective at improving the functioning of those suffering from ADHD particularly when it is paired with psychoeducation and family therapy. Educating patients and their close friends about ADHD can help decrease the likelihood of blaming each other for the problems caused by the patient's inability to control his or her own behavior. Classes that teach couples and families how to better communicate and resolve conflicts can be helpful.
Counseling
A successful treatment strategy will address the symptoms of ADHD and their effects on work, school, and family. It will include stimulant and nonstimulant medication as well as psychosocial treatment, notably cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). CBT assists patients in changing their mental outlook on their behavior. It also teaches patients how to manage their symptoms, and improve their relationships with their family and friends.
The stimulant medications used to treat ADHD increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. There are many different types of stimulant drugs, each with their own advantages and negative side effects. The two most frequently prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine, which are sold under various brand names including Ritalin and Adderall. Other drugs used to treat ADHD are atomoxetine, which works by increasing the amount of a chemical that is present in the brain that transmits messages between brain cells, and viloxazine which is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Viloxazine and Atomoxetine are frequently used to treat ADHD in adults due to the fact that they have a slower onset than stimulants. These drugs are also available for those who cannot take stimulants due to medical conditions or serious side effects.
It is important to be aware that comorbidities can mimic ADHD symptoms. Therefore, the presence and severity other conditions must be taken into consideration when diagnosing ADHD. It is also essential to rule out any physical reasons for the symptoms, like thyroid disorders or vision and hearing issues.
Certain patients may be able to reduce their ADHD symptoms by making dietary changes. It's important to consult a doctor before eliminating any food. This could result in nutritional deficiencies and should only be done under the supervision of a doctor or dietician. Another option is counseling which can assist patients in learning to cope with their symptoms and establish better relationships with their families. Counseling can also help spouses realize that the patient's behavior is not necessarily indicative of a lack of affection or willful misconduct.
Education
Patients and doctors alike are often confused by the diagnosis of ADHD. Other mental disorders may coexist with ADHD, and certain medical conditions and medications may cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD.
Many of these issues can be solved with treatments or lifestyle modifications. A person suffering from ADHD may benefit from taking supplements or changing their diet to improve their eating habits. Behavioral therapy will help him learn how to resist distractions, impulsiveness and increase the focus of his mind. A doctor may suggest cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or a mindfulness meditation practice both of which can help manage emotions and increase focus.
A thorough history of the symptoms is crucial, as is a physical exam. A doctor can also assess a patient for sleep apnea, hearing or thyroid problems, vision issues or lead poisoning as well as alcohol or drug abuse. These tests can not only help determine the presence of an underlying disorder but also help reduce or eliminate the effects of other disorders that can contribute to the ADHD-like behavior.
If a doctor suggests medication for ADHD the most commonly prescribed ones are stimulants such as dextroamphetamine (Ritalin) or amphetamine salts, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall). Nonstimulant medications include clonidine and Guanfacine. These blood pressure medicines can aid in reducing an impulsive and hyperactivity problem, but may take longer to work and can cause negative side effects, such as constipation, heartburn, and a lack of sex.
ADHD patients tend to forget appointments, arrive late for work and make uninformed choices which can stress even the most patient of family and friends members. Couples therapy and classes that concentrate on improving communication skills can help sufferers develop stable relationships.
Exercise, diet, and stress reduction could all play a part in reducing ADHD symptoms. Some people with the condition have found that removing certain foods or taking supplements helps them, however it's vital to consult with a doctor before trying these therapies. If you decide to do this without consulting a doctor it could result in nutritional deficiencies and other health issues.