Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression. These issues can affect the effectiveness of ADHD medications, and vice versa.
To evaluate the severity of a person's symptoms Health care professionals use standardized ADHD rating scales and psychometric tests. They may suggest medical or lab tests to determine if there is a medical condition that may cause symptoms similar to those experienced by ADHD.
Medicines
The foundation of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps people focus, decrease the risk of impulsive behavior and decrease distractions. They improve working, school and family life. They also help people get to sleep better, which means they are more refreshed in the morning and are less likely to make poor choices throughout the day. The majority of medications are used by themselves or in conjunction with other treatments, such as therapies or changes to diet or lifestyle.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD and are effective in boosting and balancing levels of specific neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. The two stimulants most commonly used for adult ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamine (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 nonstimulant. Many adults try several different medication types and doses to determine what is most effective for them.
It may take a while to find the best combination of medication for a person who is taking ADHD medication. A doctor or nurse might prescribe a lower dose and then observe the patient's response to it before recommending a higher dosage. They might alter the dosage to avoid side effects, such as drowsiness or stomach upset. They might also suggest a change in diet and supplements to increase the medication's effectiveness.
The need for ADHD medication may change over time. This is particularly when a patient has significant changes in their life. If a person has difficulty at school or at work it is best to talk to their doctor. Teachers, supervisors, and coworkers are generally understanding and will make minor accommodations to help a person with ADHD do their job. Getting on a regular sleep schedule can also dramatically enhance the symptoms of ADHD.
Therapists can help people learn new techniques to manage their symptoms and overcome challenges they are having at work, home or in their relationships. This kind of therapy can be conducted one-on-one or in an environment with a group and focuses on changing the negative behavior into positive ones. Counseling can also assist family members understand how to support someone with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy, in addition to other psychosocial treatments, can help improve ADHD symptoms. Medication is often combined with these treatments to improve the results. The medications used to treat adult ADHD include stimulants and non-stimulants. These medications can help you concentrate better, feel calmer and less impatient. They can also help them develop and master new skills. Most people suffering from ADHD respond well to these drugs and the benefits can last for many years. The drugs aren't addictive and don't lead to dependence. Patients with a history of substance abuse disorders should be evaluated carefully before taking these medications.
Many adults with ADHD struggle to concentrate at work and at 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 work or in school. This can improve their performance and help gain confidence. Some therapists specialize in working with those with ADHD.
Behavior therapy can be done individually, in groups or with family members. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to make it more conducive to concentration, focus and learning. It also involves teaching people to recognize what reinforces and triggers problematic behavior. It can also involve training in coping skills as well as exposure therapy, which helps people overcome anxiety and fears.
Therapists can assist with the numerous emotional issues that come with ADHD. They can also teach strategies for improving family and marriage as well as managing money, prioritizing tasks and coping with the stresses of daily living. They can help people understand ADHD and help their families on how to support the person suffering from it.
Some people with ADHD are also prone to anxiety or depression disorders. These conditions are difficult to treat. These comorbid conditions can make it harder to cope with the symptoms of ADHD. To find out if there are underlying conditions that may be contributing to the symptoms an extensive medical history should be taken. People who have a history of seizures, developmental disorder or hearing problems as well as sleep apnea, require an additional evaluation, and possibly other treatment.
Medication Trials
Medications most effectively improve the core symptoms of ADHD by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine (brain molecules that help in the transmission of messages from one neuron (brain cell to another). A medication trial allows practitioners to determine the best medication for an individual. They are unable to predict which medication will be most efficient, but they can determine which drug is most efficient. The trial begins with a low dose, and gradually increases over a period of 3-7 days until the desired clinical effects have been realized.
It is important to have an extensive medical history, as many medical conditions can be a source of symptoms similar to ADHD. These include developmental disorders mental disorders, psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression, problems with language and learning and some medical problems such as thyroid disorder as well as lead poisoning, hearing or vision loss.
There are a myriad of medications that can be used to treat adults with ADHD. The most commonly used are stimulant medications. However there are other medications as well. Certain of these medications are antidepressants, which have a direct effect on the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine or certain anticholinergics that reduce symptoms by reducing activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Certain of these drugs are not recommended for use in children, and an experienced neurologist or psychiatrist should be consulted before prescribing them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy is a great option in treating ADHD for adults. Therapists can assist individuals and families learn practical skills that will help them manage their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organization strategies. They can also offer emotional support and teach strategies for coping. People with ADHD often have difficulties with relationships and family, and therapy for marriage can help develop effective ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
For some adults, the best treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleep patterns. A regular bedtime and a good quality sleep can make a significant difference in their ability to concentrate, focus and behave.
Other treatment options for ADHD include cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a talk therapy that helps people change their behavior and thinking patterns. Lifestyle changes such as dietary modification are also beneficial. Some people can lessen ADHD symptoms by changing their diet, but it is recommended to consult with your doctor before making any changes. Certain supplements and foods can aggravate symptoms, or even cause them to disappear.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adults with ADHD is a mix of psychosocial treatment and medication. The medication assists people in staying focused and organized which helps them maintain relationships and manage their tasks. Psychosocial treatments can help people develop strategies that can lessen their symptoms and improve the way they function in everyday life, such as time management 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 abilities. These coaches aren't like traditional talk therapy which focuses on emotional issues. Instead, they assist people manage their behavior. They usually work remotely and do not meet their clients in person.
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental disorders, like bipolar disorder or major depression and issues with substance abuse. These conditions can cause a lot of stress and interfere with daily activities, so treating them is usually a top priority before starting any ADHD treatments. Certain medications that treat other disorders, like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Atomoxetine (Prozac) can aid in treating ADHD.
Yoga and meditation are non-medicinal therapies that can help reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing attention and focus and reducing the tendency to be impulsive. These calming techniques are often taught in a group or individually. Other therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a kind of talk therapy that attempts to alter the way someone perceives the situation, can be carried out with a therapist either in person or via the internet.
Sleep issues are common in adults with ADHD, and poor quality of sleep can exacerbate the symptoms. treating adult add can be alleviated by establishing a regular sleeping schedule and avoiding caffeine during the night.
The most effective treatment for adults with ADHD involves both psychosocial and medication treatment. Some people notice a significant improvement after taking medication, but others may not. It may take a while to find the right dosage and regimen. Consult with your physician to maximize the benefits.