ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH suggests that people who believe they may have ADHD talk with their health care providers. A thorough examination will determine if the symptoms could be caused by mental health issues, stress or physical illnesses.
ADHD is often treated by medication. Stimulants and nonstimulants are available to treat the condition.
Medications
Many mental illnesses mimic ADHD symptoms in children and adults. These include anxiety disorders as well as mood disorders and adjustment disorders. Stress can result in symptoms similar to ADHD. It is crucial that these possibilities are considered when evaluating an adult with symptoms resembling those of ADHD. Following a thorough diagnosis medication is usually prescribed as a treatment.
Stimulant medications are among the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. These medications can dramatically improve symptoms associated with ADHD, but they aren't the only treatment for those suffering from this condition. The use of medications should only be considered after other treatments have been tested. They should not be used to replace behavioral therapy.
There are two main types of stimulant medications. Methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are the two most commonly used medications to treat ADHD in adults. Both have been in use for a long time and have been extensively studied. They are available in various forms, including tablets, liquids and even a skin patch. Adderall is the most well-known brand. Stimulant medications increase the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain. They are effective for a majority of people with ADHD however they can also cause side consequences such as tachycardia, and high blood pressure. They are not advised in certain medical conditions, including Tourette syndrome and severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant medicines can also be prescribed for certain people suffering from ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine are selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors that do not possess the abuse potential of stimulants. They do not perform as fast as stimulants, but do provide significant improvement in ADHD symptoms in some adults.
The medication can help reduce anxiety and depression, in addition to the severity of ADHD symptoms. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from co-occurring ADHD and depression.
It is important to see an appointment with a doctor on a regular basis to observe the body's reaction to the medication and to make sure it is working properly. Initial appointments should occur every 30 days. After that, appointments must be made every month until a stable dosage is reached, and then every 3 months.
Counseling
For adults who have ADHD, psychotherapy is a very important treatment. Adults with ADHD are often referred by doctors to psychotherapists that specialize in treating this disorder. Psychotherapy is more effective than medications in treating ADHD symptoms in adults, based on some studies. However it is important to have a thorough medical history must be conducted to help determine the best treatment options. super fast reply of medical conditions can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD, such as seizures (petit mal), thyroid disorders, lead poisoning, other nutritional deficiencies, sleep apnea and issues with vision and hearing. In addition, substance abuse disorders and certain medications may cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Most ADHD treatments involve medication and stimulant drugs are the most frequently used. Methylphenidate is a central nerve system stimulant that increases activity in brain areas that regulate the impulses and attention. It is available in tablets with immediate release that are tiny doses taken up to three times daily. Modified-release tablets provide slow release of the drug throughout the day. They don't trigger addiction and aren't a habit-forming drug. However, they can have side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking the medication and inform him the occurrence of any.
Psychotherapy can be very useful in helping patients who suffer from a variety of problems that are related to their ADHD issues, such as poor time management and organizational skills as well as impulsivity, social issues and academic issues, difficulties maintaining relationships, temper tantrums and even antisocial behavior. Some studies suggest cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) could be more effective than other types of psychotherapy for treating ADHD symptoms for adults.
It is important to remember that every psychotherapy must include an element of education or training that addresses the specific issues ADHD sufferers have to face, such as problems with memory and learning in addition to poor organizational skills and a tendency for things to be lost. In addition, there is increasing evidence that suggests the connection between certain physical health issues, such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and neurodiverse mental illnesses including ADHD and Tourettes.
Metacognitive therapy is a CBT method that is very efficient in enhancing the functioning of people suffering from ADHD. It helps patients develop strategies to improve their organization abilities, preparing for the future and resolving thinking distortions which can lead to negative feelings or self-defeating beliefs. Stevenson and colleagues have created a program for group-based CBT for adults suffering from ADHD that has been found to be extremely effective in improving their behavioral symptoms and cognitive performance (Stevenson et al 2002). Rostain, along with colleagues, assessed the efficacy of a combined treatment that included concurrent pharmacotherapy and CBT for 43 adults with ADHD. They observed improvements in both ADHD and comorbid depression or anxiety (Rostain and coworkers 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Most often the most effective treatment for ADHD involves lifestyle changes. For example, ensuring adequate sleep and a healthy diet can reduce symptoms. Regular exercise can also help reduce hyperactivity. However, it is important to choose an activity you love and stick to. Stress and anxiety can be decreased by engaging in relaxation techniques.
Organizing your workspace will help you stay focused and on track with deadlines. You should consider setting aside a regular time to organize your papers and other materials, and consider using file folders and dividers to divide different kinds of documents. Label and color-code your folders to help you find what you're looking for.
Adults with ADHD often struggle with procrastination and organization, which can affect their ability to complete work tasks on time. Set alarms on your smartphone and add reminders to your calendar.
Insufficient planning and organization skills can lead to issues at school, work as well as at home. Adult ADHD treatment requires these skills be developed. Many adults with ADHD struggle to stay focused at work, which can impact their productivity and cause embarrassment or anger.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from a medication that boosts self-esteem and concentration. It is vital to inform 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 that treat this condition.
Although there aren't any foods that cure ADHD the elimination of sugar and artificial additives can help reduce symptoms by encouraging brain health. Consuming a balanced diet which is rich in whole grains and lean proteins can reduce hyperactivity.
Insufficient sleep can cause anxiety and a lack of concentration. Sleep deprivation can also increase the risk of developing depression and mood disorders. For this reason, it is crucial to establish a good sleep routine and practice relaxation strategies before getting to bed.
Making sustainable, long-term lifestyle changes can be difficult for those suffering from ADHD. Consider rewarding your patients when achieving specific goals to encourage them to stick to their treatment plan. For instance, offering a Hershey Kiss after 10 trips to the gym can be a great incentive for some people.
Accommodations
If a person is using accommodation to help manage an issue and manage their situation, they modify their environment or use tools to control symptoms. If you're small, you may need a step stool in order to reach the items on the shelves of the shop. A person with ADHD may require accommodations to succeed at work or school.
Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from a range of counseling methods such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). CBT involves working in tandem with a therapist to change negative behavior and replace it with positive behavior. It also helps adults to improve their organizational skills and develop strategies to manage stress.
People suffering from ADHD tend to be successful in their work and personal relationships. They may struggle with everyday tasks, such as paying their bills or maintaining their home. A health care provider or mental health professional can assist an adult in determining if they have ADHD by conducting a thorough assessment, including psychological testing and a review of the person's childhood behavior and experiences.
The assessment will typically include an interview with the patient parents, the patient, and other family members. A health care specialist or mental health professional may also ask the person to take a standardized ADHD ratings scales for symptoms or an assessment questionnaire. They can also conduct psychological testing to evaluate a person's ability to think, executive functioning and visual-spatial capabilities.
A comprehensive evaluation can also include examining the person's medical history and determining whether there are any conditions that could cause ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, a learning disability, or addiction to drugs. People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other medical conditions, so a careful assessment is essential.
In most instances, a stimulant drug will be prescribed to treat the symptoms of ADHD. Stimulants are a controlled substance, so they need to be closely monitored by a physician. The side effects could include insomnia and addiction. Some people who suffer from ADHD have difficulty to remain on the medication for a long time since they don't notice any improvement in their symptoms.