ADHD Treatments For Adults
Stimulants like amphetamine and methylphenidate are the first treatment that doctors recommend. They can help regulate the levels of two chemical messengers inside the brain. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants can reduce symptoms, but they work slower.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy can help adults develop techniques to improve organization and planning. Coaching and psychotherapy can enhance social functioning.
Medicines
You can take medications to treat ADHD symptoms. Some people feel better after altering their diet or taking supplements. However they should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional. Other treatments can include psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and counseling for families. Some people with ADHD have difficulty staying on medication however, they should speak to their doctor and seek help. Some medications are available over-the-counter, while others require prescriptions.
Most ADHD medications are based on increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain. This decreases impulsivity and increases concentration. The most popular drugs are stimulants, like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These are considered to be the most effective ADHD treatment, but they can have adverse effects. Heart problems are among the most serious adverse effects. Stimulant medications can also cause antics, such as eye blinking or throat clearing. These medications can also delay growth by a few months in children and teenagers.
Nonstimulant drugs are prescribed to people who suffer from uncontrollable side effects from stimulants, or those at risk of heart disease. These are typically norepinephrine, dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists. These drugs aren't as effective as stimulants however they are safe and don't have the abuse potential that some people experience with stimulant drugs.
You can attempt to lessen your ADHD symptoms without medication by following a planned schedule, establishing and adhering to a budget, developing organizational skills, learning more about your disorder and devising strategies for dealing with your symptoms. It is recommended to talk with an expert to learn the best approach to managing your condition, and you can find many useful resources on the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Association website.
Your relationships can be strained because of your ADHD symptoms. You can improve your relationships by speaking with an therapist and attending conflict resolution classes. You can improve your relationships with your family members or friends by letting them know about your ADHD and by letting them know that your behavior is not intentional.
Therapy
ADHD in adulthood can result in profound emotional, social and occupational repercussions. This includes lower academic performance, higher rates of job failure and transfer, poor performance at work, more car accidents and higher divorce rates than the general population (Spencer et al 2007). Adults who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be suffering from anxiety, depression, or abuse of substances. Those with comorbid disorders may be more difficult to respond to stimulant medications (Barkley and Gordon 2002).
A detailed patient history is essential, since many medical conditions may have symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Patients suffering from seizures, developmental disorders, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning must be carefully evaluated. Patients with active substance abuse or those suffering from particular medical conditions like heart disease and high blood pressure should refrain from receiving stimulant treatments (Greenhill 2001).
Psychosocial therapy for adults with ADHD includes psychoeducation and behavioral therapy. Psychoeducation involves teaching patients about their disorder as well as its effects on various aspects of their lives and relationships. Psychoeducation can also help improve self-esteem among patients who typically are stigmatized, for example, being perceived as lazy or less intelligent.
Behavioral therapy for adults with ADHD is designed to teach patients better ways to manage their time and work, improving their organizational skills. This will to reduce the risk of not attending appointments or making impulsive decisions that can cause issues at work, school or in their personal lives. This type of therapy could help improve relationships with their spouse, children and colleagues.
Cognitive-behavioral treatment for adults with ADHD is aimed at helping people change their negative behaviors. This type of therapy is very effective at improving the functioning of people suffering from ADHD particularly when it is paired with psychoeducation for families and family therapy. Informing patients and loved ones about ADHD can reduce the tendency to blame one another for problems caused by the person's inability to control his or her own behavior. Classes that teach couples and families how to communicate more effectively and resolve conflicts could be beneficial.
Counseling
A well-designed treatment strategy will address the symptoms of ADHD and their impact on school, work, and family. It will include non-stimulant and stimulant medication, as in addition to psychosocial treatment, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps patients change the way they think about their behavior. It also teaches patients how to manage their symptoms and improve their relationships with their family and friends.
Stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD boost and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. There are a myriad of types of stimulant medications, each with their own advantages and side-effects. The two most popular stimulants are dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate that are available under many different brands, including Adderall and Ritalin. Viloxazine is a norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor. Atomoxetine increases the amount of a brain chemical that transmits messages between brain cells. Viloxazine and atomoxetine are both used to treat ADHD in adults, since they have a slower development than stimulants. They are also available to people who cannot take stimulants due to other medical conditions or serious side effects.
It is crucial to keep in mind that comorbid conditions can cause ADHD symptoms. Therefore the presence and severity of other conditions should be considered when diagnosing ADHD. It is also essential to rule out any physical reasons for the symptoms, such as a thyroid disorder or problems with hearing and vision.
It's also worth noting that some patients might be able reduce their ADHD symptoms by changing their diet. But it's crucial to seek medical advice prior to cutting out any food which could cause nutritional deficiencies. This should only be done with the help of a doctor or dietician. Counseling can also assist patients deal with their symptoms, and also improve their relationships with their family. Counseling can also assist spouses in understanding that the patient's behavior is not necessarily a sign of a lack of affection or willful infractions.
Education
Both doctors and patients are often confused by the diagnosis of ADHD. It's not uncommon for other mental health conditions to coexist with the disorder, and some medications and medical conditions can also produce symptoms that mimic those of ADHD.
treating add in adults or treatment changes can help with many of these issues. A person with ADHD could benefit from changing their diet or taking supplements to improve his eating habits, for example. Behavioral therapy can teach him to better resist distractions and impulsiveness, increase his concentration and self-control. A doctor might suggest cognitive-behavioral (CBT) therapy or mindfulness meditation, which can aid in controlling emotions and improve concentration.
A thorough history of symptoms is crucial and so is a physical exam. A doctor can also assess patients for sleep apnea and hearing and thyroid problems, vision issues as well as lead poisoning, drug or alcohol abuse. In addition to determining the existence of an underlying cause these tests can help rule out or lessen the effects of other disorders that might contribute to a patient's ADHD-like behavior.
Most often, stimulants are prescribed by physicians for ADHD. They include dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate, Concerta and Adderall. Other non-stimulant drugs include clonidine as well as guanfacine. These blood pressure medication can help with hyperactivity and impulsivity, but can take longer to work and can cause adverse effects like constipation, heartburn, and low sexual desire.
ADHD patients are often unable to remember appointments, arrive late for work and make irrational choices which can stress even the most patient of family and friends members. Couples therapy or classes that improve communication skills can help people develop solid relationships.
Diet, exercise, and stress reduction all can help in reducing ADHD symptoms. Certain people suffering from ADHD have reported that cutting out certain foods or taking supplements has helped them. However, it is essential to consult with a physician prior to attempting any of these treatments. If you decide to do this without consulting a doctor, it could lead to nutritional deficiency and other health issues.