ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH suggests that people who suspect they have ADHD speak with their healthcare providers. A thorough examination will determine if the symptoms are caused by stress, mental health conditions or physical ailments.
Medicines are usually the first option for treating ADHD. Nonstimulants and stimulants are also available to treat the condition.
Medicines
Many mental disorders are akin to ADHD symptoms in children and adults. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders and adjustment disorders. Stress can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. When looking at an adult with symptoms resembling those of ADHD, it is crucial to take into consideration these possible causes. Once a proper diagnosis has been made, medications are often recommended as an option to treat.
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulant medication. These drugs can significantly improve ADHD-related symptoms, but are not the only treatment for those suffering from this condition. The use of medication should only be done after other treatments are evaluated. They should never be used in place of therapy for behavioral issues.
There are two primary types of stimulant medicines. Methylphenidate and dextro-amphetamine are the two drugs most commonly used to treat ADHD in adults. Both have been extensively studied and have been around for many years. They are available in many forms, including tablets, liquids and a skin patch. Adderall is the most popular brand. Stimulant medications enhance the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain. They are effective for a majority of people suffering from ADHD however they can also cause side effects like tachycardia or high blood pressure. They are also not recommended for certain medical conditions like Tourette's syndrome or severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant drugs are also available for certain individuals suffering from ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine are norepinephrine selective Reuptake inhibitors that don't have the potential for abuse as stimulants. They don't perform as fast as stimulants, but they can make significant improvements in ADHD symptoms for certain adults.
In addition to decreasing the severity of ADHD symptoms, medications can also reduce anxiety and depression. This is particularly beneficial for those suffering from the comorbidity of ADHD and depression.
It is important to continue going to the doctor regularly to check the body's reactions to the medication and to ensure that it is working effectively. Initial appointments should be scheduled every 30 days. After that, appointments are to be made every month until a steady dose is achieved, and then every 3 months.
Counseling
For adults suffering from ADHD psychotherapy is a very important treatment. Doctors often refer people suffering from ADHD to psychotherapists that specialize in the disorder. There are studies that suggest that psychotherapy is more effective than medication for treating ADHD symptoms in adults. To determine the most effective treatment, it is important to take a complete medical history. A variety of medical conditions can trigger ADHD-like symptoms, including seizures (petit mal), thyroid disorders, lead poisoning, other nutritional deficiencies, sleep apnea and issues with vision and hearing. Substance abuse disorders and certain medications can also trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
The majority of ADHD treatments involve medication and stimulant medications are the most common. Methylphenidate, which is the most common medication is a central nervous system stimulant. It increases activity in brain regions that control the flow of attention and impulses. It is available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets which offer a longer release of the drug throughout the day. They don't trigger addiction and aren't a habit-forming drug. However, they could cause side effects. Consult your doctor before taking the medication and inform him whether any side effects occur.
Psychotherapy can be very useful in helping patients who suffer from many issues associated with their ADHD problems, such as ineffective time management and organizational skills, impulsivity, social problems, academic failures, trouble maintaining relationships, temper tantrums and even antisocial behaviour. Some studies suggest that cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) may be more effective than other types of psychotherapy in treating ADHD symptoms for adults.
It's worth pointing out that every psychotherapy approach should include some aspect of training or education to deal with the specific issues those with ADHD face, such as memory and learning difficulties, poor organisational skills, and a tendency to lose things. There is a growing body of evidence of a connection between certain physical conditions such as Ehlers Danlos syndrome (EDS), as well as neurological disorders that are multifaceted, such as ADHD and Tourettes.
Metacognitive therapy is a CBT technique can be extremely helpful in improving the mood and functioning of adults with ADHD. It helps patients develop strategies to improve their organization skills, plan ahead and correct thinking errors that can lead to negative moods or self-defeating thoughts. Stevenson and colleagues have created a group-based CBT program for adults suffering from ADHD that has been found to be extremely effective in improving their behavioral symptoms and cognitive functioning (Stevenson and colleagues 2002). Rostain and colleagues have also evaluated the efficacy of a combination treatment involving concurrent pharmacotherapy with CBT in 43 people with ADHD and found improvements in both ADHD symptoms as well as comorbid depression and anxiety (Rostain et al 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Oft, the most effective treatment for ADHD is through lifestyle adjustments. For instance, ensuring that you get enough sleep and a healthy diet can improve symptoms. Regular exercise can also help reduce hyperactivity. However it is essential to find a sport that you will enjoy and stick to. In addition, practicing relaxation techniques can help ease anxiety and stress.
The organization of your workspace can aid you in staying on track and keep the track of deadlines. You should consider setting aside time every day for organizing papers and supplies. Use folders and dividers to separate documents. Label and color code folders to make it easier to find what you are looking for.
online adhd treatment for adults suffering from ADHD struggle with procrastination and organizational issues which can impact their ability to finish tasks on time. Set alarms on your phone and add reminders to your calendar.
Poor planning and organization skills can cause problems at work, school, and home. Adult ADHD treatment requires that these skills be developed. Many people with ADHD struggle to stay focused at work. This can lead to embarrassment and frustration.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from medication that improves self-esteem and concentration. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, since certain medications may interact with stimulants. The NIMH's Medications to Treat ADD and ADHD Fact Sheet contains more details on the kinds of drugs used to treat these conditions.
Although there isn't any food or drink that can cure ADHD, abstaining from sugary and artificial additives will help manage symptoms through increasing brain health. A balanced diet that is rich in whole grains and protein sources can help reduce hyperactivity.
Inadequate sleep contributes to stress, anxiety, lack of focus, and difficulty maintaining attention throughout the day. In addition sleep deprivation can increase the chance of developing depression and mood disorders. It is therefore essential to establish a healthy sleeping routine and to practice relaxation techniques prior to going to going to bed.
The sustainable, long-term lifestyle changes can be a challenge for people with ADHD. To encourage your patients to stick to their treatment plan you could offer them rewards for achieving certain goals. Giving a Hershey Kiss to those who make 10 gym trips could be a great method to inspire them.
Accommodations
When a person uses accommodations to manage a problem, they use tools or modifications to their environment to manage the symptoms. If you're short, you may need a step stool in order to reach the items on shelves of the shop. A person with ADHD may need to make accommodations to be successful in school or work.
Adults with ADHD might also benefit from counseling techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT involves working together with a therapist to alter negative behavior and replace it with more positive behaviors. It can also teach adults to improve their organizational skills as well as develop strategies for managing stress.
People suffering from ADHD have a high probability of success in their work and personal relationships. They may struggle with daily tasks such as paying their bills and maintaining a home. A health care professional or mental health specialist can assist an adult to determine whether they have ADHD by conducting a thorough examination which includes psychological tests and a review of the person's childhood behavior and experiences.
The examination will usually involve an interaction with the patient parents, the patient, and other family members. A health care practitioner or mental health professional may also request that the person take a standard ADHD ratings scales for symptoms or a questionnaire. They may also conduct psychological testing to assess a person's reasoning, executive functioning and visual-spatial capabilities.
A comprehensive evaluation can also include examining a person's medical history and determining if there are any conditions that may cause ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, a substance abuse disorder or learning disability. People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other medical conditions, so a careful assessment is essential.
In the majority of cases, the person with ADHD will be prescribed a stimulant medication to alleviate the symptoms. Stimulants, which are controlled substances, must be monitored closely by a medical professional. They can cause side effects, like insomnia and addiction. Certain adults suffering from ADHD have a difficult time keeping the medication on for long periods of time, as they don't notice their symptoms diminishing.