ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH suggests that people who believe they may have ADHD discuss the possibility with their health medical professionals. A thorough assessment will determine if the symptoms could be due to stress, mental health conditions, or physical illness.
ADHD is often treated with medication. There are stimulants and nonstimulants available to treat this condition.
Medications
ADHD symptoms could be a sign of a variety of mental health disorders, both in children and adults. Some of these include anxiety disorders, mood disorders and adjustment disorders. Stress can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. It is essential to consider these possibilities when evaluating an adult suffering from ADHD-like symptoms. After a proper diagnosis medication is usually prescribed to treat.
adhd treatment adults prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulant drugs. These drugs can improve ADHD symptoms, but they are not the only treatment available for people with this condition. The use of medication should only be done after other treatments have been tried and should not be used in place of or as a substitute for therapy for behavior.
There are two major types of stimulant medicines. Methylphenidate (also known as methylphenidate) and dextroamphetamine (also called dextroamphetamine) are the two most frequently used drugs for treating ADHD in adults. Both have been studied extensively and have been around for a long time. The medications are available in different forms such as liquids and tablets. They can also be applied to the skin. Adderall is the most popular brand. The stimulant medication works by stimulating the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain. They are effective in treating the majority of patients with ADHD however, they can also trigger side effects, such as tachycardia or high blood pressure. They are not advised in certain medical conditions, like Tourette syndrome and severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant medications are also prescribed to some people with ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine are norepinephrine selective Reuptake inhibitors, which do not have the potential for abuse as stimulants. They don't work as quickly as stimulants however they can provide significant improvement in ADHD symptoms in adults.
In addition to lessening the severity of ADHD symptoms medications can also help reduce anxiety and depression. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with co-occurring ADHD and depression.
It is essential to keep going to the doctor regularly to observe the bodily reactions to the medication and ensure that it is working. Initial appointments should be every 30 days. After that, appointments are to be made every month until a steady dosage is reached and then every 3 months.
Counseling
Psychotherapy is an important treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. Doctors often refer adults with ADHD to psychotherapists who specialize in the disorder. Some studies suggest that psychotherapy is more effective than medication to treat ADHD symptoms in adults. To determine the most effective treatment, it's essential to take a complete medical history. Many medical conditions can cause symptoms similar to ADHD, such as seizures (petit mal) thyroid disorders, lead poisoning, other nutritional deficiencies, sleep apnea and hearing and vision problems. Substance abuse disorders and certain medications can also cause ADHD-like symptoms.
Most ADHD treatments include medication, and stimulant drugs are the most commonly used. Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that boosts activity in the brain regions that control the flow of attention and impulses. It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets that allow for a longer release the drug throughout the day. Stimulants aren't considered habit-forming and have no potential to cause addiction, however they may cause side effects, so it is important to consult a doctor before starting them and let your GP know if you experience any.
Psychotherapy can be very useful in helping patients suffering from various issues associated with their ADHD, including poor time management and ability to organize as well as impulsivity, social issues and academic failures, difficulty maintaining relationships, temper tantrums and even antisocial behavior. Certain studies suggest that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) could be more effective than other types of psychotherapy to treat ADHD symptoms for adults.
It's important to note that every psychotherapy must include an element of education or training that addresses the specific issues ADHD sufferers face, which include learning and memory issues as well as poor organisational skills and the tendency to be lost. Additionally, there's increasing evidence that suggests the connection between certain physical health conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), and neurodiverse mental illnesses, including ADHD and Tourettes.
Metacognitive therapy is a CBT method that is highly effective in improving the functioning of adults with ADHD. It helps patients develop strategies to improve their organizational skills, develop a plan of action and overcome thinking distortions that can cause self-defeating or negative moods. Stevenson and his co-workers developed a group-based CBT program for adults suffering from ADHD. It has been found to be highly efficient in improving their cognitive functioning and behavior-related symptoms (Stevenson et. al. 2002). Rostain and colleagues have also assessed the effectiveness of a combination treatment involving concurrent pharmacotherapy with CBT for 43 adults suffering from ADHD and found improvements in both ADHD symptoms as well as comorbid depression and anxiety (Rostain et al 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Most often, the most effective treatments for ADHD are based on lifestyle adjustments. For instance, getting enough sleep and healthy eating habits can significantly improve symptoms. Regular exercise can reduce the amount of hyperactivity. However, it is important to find a sport that you will enjoy and stick to. Stress and anxiety can be lowered by engaging in relaxation techniques.
The organization of your workspace can aid you in staying on track and keep the track of deadlines. Set aside time each day to organize your papers and other supplies. Use folders and dividers to separate documents. Be sure to label and color-code your folders to ensure you can find what you need quickly.
Adults suffering from ADHD often have trouble with organization and procrastination which can interfere with their ability to complete tasks on time. Set alarms on your phone and add reminders to your calendar.
Inadequate planning and organizational skills can lead to problems at work, school and at home. Adult ADHD treatment requires these skills be developed. Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle to stay focused at work. This can cause frustration and embarrassment.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from medication that improves concentration and self-esteem. It is essential to inform your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, as some of them may interact with stimulants. The NIMH Fact Sheet on Medications to Treat ADD/ADHD gives more details about the drugs used to treat this condition.
Although there aren't any foods that can cure ADHD, avoiding sugary and artificial additives can help reduce symptoms by promoting brain health. A balanced diet that is rich in whole grains and protein sources can help to reduce hyperactivity.
Inadequate sleep can lead to irritability and a lack of concentration. Sleep deprivation also increases the risk for depression and mood disorders. It is therefore essential to establish a healthy routine for sleep and to practice relaxation techniques before going to bed.
People with ADHD might find it difficult to make long-term lifestyle changes. To encourage your patients to adhere to their treatment plans think about offering them rewards for achieving certain goals. Offering an Hershey Kiss to those who take 10 trips to the gym is a great way to encourage them to stick to their plans.
Accommodations
If a person is using accommodations to deal with a problem they alter their environment or use tools to control symptoms. For example for those who are short, you might need to utilize a step stool to reach items on shelves in the store. A person suffering from ADHD might need to make adjustments to be successful at school or work.
adhd treatment adults suffering from ADHD might also benefit from counseling techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT involves working with a therapist in order to alter negative behaviors and replace them with more positive ones. It can also teach adults to improve their organizational skills and devise strategies for managing stress.
People suffering from ADHD generally have satisfaction in their careers as well as in relationships with their loved ones. However, they may face challenges with everyday tasks, like paying bills or maintaining the house in good condition. A mental health specialist or health care professional can assist adults in determining if they suffer from ADHD by conducting an assessment that includes psychological testing and a review the person's past behaviors and experiences.
The assessment will typically include an interaction with the patient parents, the patient, and other family members. A health care practitioner or mental health professional may also ask the person to take a the standardized ADHD symptoms rating scales or a questionnaire. They may also conduct psychological tests to evaluate the person's spatial and mental reasoning, executive functioning and reasoning abilities.
A thorough evaluation could include an examination of medical records and a determination of if there are any underlying conditions that could trigger ADHD. These include depression, anxiety, learning disabilities, or addiction to drugs. People who suffer from ADHD may also have other ailments. A thorough evaluation is therefore important.
In the majority of instances, a stimulant drug is prescribed to treat the symptoms of ADHD. Stimulants, which are controlled substances, must be monitored closely by a doctor. They can have side effects, like insomnia and addiction. Some adults with ADHD find it difficult to take the medication for long periods of time because they don't see any improvement in their symptoms.