ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH suggests that people who suspect they might have ADHD speak with their healthcare providers. A thorough examination will determine if the symptoms could be due to stress, mental health conditions or physical ailments.
ADHD is often treated with medication. Stimulants and nonstimulants are available to treat the condition.
Medicines
ADHD symptoms may be a sign of a variety of mental disorders that affect adults and children. Some of them include anxiety disorders, mood disorders and adjustment disorders. Additionally, chronic stress can cause various symptoms that resemble similar to ADHD. It is important to consider these possibilities when evaluating an adult who has symptoms resembling those of ADHD. Following a thorough diagnosis medication is usually prescribed to treat.
Stimulant medications are among the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD. These medications can dramatically improve ADHD-related symptoms, but are not the only treatment for people with this condition. The use of medication should only be used after other treatments are tested. They should never be used in place of therapy for behavioral issues.
There are two main types of stimulant medications. Methylphenidate and dextro-amphetamine are the two most commonly used medications to treat ADHD in adults. Both have been in use for quite a while and have been extensively researched. They are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, liquids and even a skin patch. Adderall is the most popular brand. The stimulant drugs enhance the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain. They are effective for most people with ADHD but can cause side consequences such as tachycardia, and high blood pressure. They are not recommended for certain medical conditions, like Tourette syndrome and severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant medications are also a viable option for some people with ADHD. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera (Strattera) and viloxazine, are selective inhibitors of norepinephrine reuptake. They do not have the same abuse potential as stimulants. They don't work as quickly as stimulants, however they do provide significant improvements in ADHD symptoms for certain adults.
In addition to reducing the severity of ADHD symptoms, medications can also reduce anxiety and depression. This is especially beneficial for people with ADHD and depression.
It is important to continue visiting a physician regularly to check the body's reactions to the medication and to make sure that it is working. Initial appointments should be scheduled every 30 days. After that, appointments must be made every month until a steady dosage is reached and then every 3 months thereafter.
Counseling
For adults suffering from ADHD, psychotherapy is an essential treatment. Doctors often refer adults with ADHD to psychotherapists who specialize in the disorder. Certain studies suggest that psychotherapy is more effective than medication for treating ADHD symptoms in adults. To determine the best treatment, it's important to conduct a thorough medical history. Numerous medical conditions, including seizures (petit mal) thyroid issues or lead poisoning, other nutritional deficiencies, and sleep apnea, may cause symptoms and signs reminiscent of ADHD. Substance abuse disorders and certain medications can also cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Most ADHD treatments involve medication, and stimulant drugs are the most frequently used. Methylphenidate, which is the most commonly used medication is a central nervous system stimulant. It increases activity in brain areas that control the flow of attention and impulses. It is available in both immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) and modified-release tablets which allow for a longer release the drug throughout the day. They don't trigger addiction and aren't a habit-forming drug. However, they may have side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking the medication and inform him whether any side effects occur.
Psychotherapy can be very useful in helping patients suffering from various issues that are related to their ADHD, including ineffective time management and ability to organize as well as impulsivity, social issues, academic failures, trouble maintaining relationships, temper flares and even antisocial behaviour. Some studies suggest cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) could be more effective than other types of psychotherapy for treating ADHD symptoms in adults.
It's important to note that every psychotherapy must include an element of education or training that addresses particular issues that ADHD sufferers face, which include learning and memory issues as well as poor organisational skills and the tendency for things to get lost. In addition, there is growing research that demonstrates a connection between some physical health conditions like Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and neurodiverse mental illnesses including ADHD and Tourettes.
Metacognitive therapy is a CBT technique that can be highly efficient in improving the performance of adults suffering from ADHD. It assists patients in developing strategies for improving their organizational skills, planning ahead and resolving the distortions in their thinking that can result in negative feelings or self-defeating beliefs. Stevenson and colleagues have created a group-based CBT program for adults suffering from ADHD which was found to be highly effective in improving their behavioural symptoms and cognitive functioning (Stevenson and colleagues 2002). Rostain and colleagues have also examined the efficacy of a combination treatment that combines pharmacotherapy and CBT in 43 people with ADHD and found improvements in both ADHD symptoms as well as depression and anxiety (Rostain and colleagues, 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Often, the most effective treatments for ADHD require lifestyle adjustments. For example, ensuring adequate sleep and a balanced diet can reduce symptoms. Regular exercise can also help reduce hyperactivity. However it is essential to find a sport that you enjoy and keep up with. Stress and anxiety can be reduced by engaging in relaxation techniques.
The organization of your workspace can keep you focused and on the right track with deadlines. Consider setting aside untreated adhd in adults to organize your documents and supplies. Use folders and dividers to organize your documents. Be sure to label and color-code your folders to ensure you can find the items you require quickly.
Adults with ADHD often have trouble with organization and procrastination, which can interfere with their ability to complete tasks in a timely manner. Put reminders in your calendar and setting alarms on your phone to help you meet deadlines.
Poor planning and organization skills can lead to issues at home, school and at work. The development of these skills is a crucial aspect of treating ADHD in adults. Many adults with ADHD struggle to stay focused at work, which can affect their productivity and result in embarrassment or anger.
Treatments for adults suffering from ADHD can aid in improving self-esteem and concentration. However, it is essential to disclose any other medications you're taking to your health care doctor, as some interact with stimulants. The NIMH Fact Sheet on Medications for ADD/ADHD provides more information about the medications used to treat this condition.
Although there aren't any foods that can cure ADHD the elimination of sugar and artificial additives can help manage symptoms by encouraging the health of your brain. Consuming a balanced diet which is rich in whole grains and protein sources can help to reduce hyperactivity.
Insufficient sleep can cause irritability, lack of focus and trouble keeping focus throughout the day. In addition sleep deprivation can increase the chance of developing depression and mood disorders. It is therefore important to develop a good sleeping routine and to practice relaxation techniques before going to the bed.
Achieving long-term, sustainable lifestyle changes can be difficult for people suffering from ADHD. Consider rewarding your patients for achieving specific goals to encourage them to adhere to their treatment plan. Offering an Hershey Kiss to those who take 10 trips to the gym is a great way to inspire them.
Accommodations
When a person uses accommodations to manage a problem, they use tools or adjustments to their environment to help manage the symptoms. If you're small or have a disability, you might require a step stool in order to access the items on the shelves of the store. Also, a person suffering from ADHD may require accommodations to aid them in their success at work or school.
Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a variety of counseling techniques that include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT involves working with a therapist to change negative behavior and replace it with more positive behaviors. It can also help adults improve their organizational skills, and develop strategies to manage stress.
People with ADHD often find success in their careers and in personal relationships. They may experience difficulties in everyday tasks like paying their bills and maintaining their home. A mental health expert or health professional can assist adults in determining if they suffer from ADHD by conducting an evaluation that includes psychological testing and an analysis of the person's prior behavior and experiences.
The examination will usually involve an interview with the patient as well as their parents and other family members. A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider might also ask the patient to fill out a questionnaire or standardized ADHD symptoms rating scales. They can also conduct psychological testing to determine a person's thinking executive functioning, visual-spatial and executive abilities.
A comprehensive evaluation may also consist of a review of the person's medical records and a determination of if there are any underlying issues which could cause ADHD. These could include depression, anxiety, learning disabilities, or addiction to drugs. People with ADHD may also have other medical conditions. A thorough evaluation is therefore important.
In most cases, a person suffering from ADHD will be prescribed a stimulant medication to treat the symptoms. Stimulants are a controlled substance, so they need to be monitored closely by a medical professional. Side effects can include insomnia and addiction. Some adults with ADHD have a difficult time keeping the medication on long term, because they don't experience any symptoms getting better.