Treating ADHD With Medications
Many people with ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, like anxiety or depression. These conditions can affect the way ADHD medications work, and vice the other way around.
To evaluate the symptoms of a patient health professionals employ the standardized ADHD rating scales and psychometric tests. They may suggest lab or physical exams to rule out medical problems which could trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Medications
The mainstay of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps patients stay focused, reduce impulsive behaviors and reduce distractions. They improve school, work and family life. They also help people sleep better so that they feel more refreshed and less likely to make poor decisions throughout the day. Medications can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments such as diet, therapy, or lifestyle modifications.
Stimulants are among the most frequently 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 to treat adult ADHD are amphetamine and methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR). Adults suffering from ADHD can also be treated with antidepressants, such as bupropion and atomoxetine, which is a non-stimulant. Adults often experiment with different types of medication and dosages to determine the most appropriate one for them.
If a person begins taking ADHD medication, the drug affects everyone differently and it may take some time to find the right dosage for them. A nurse or doctor will usually start with a lower dose and monitor the person's response before prescribing more. They may adjust the dosage to prevent side effects, including stomach upset or drowsiness. They may also suggest changes to diet or vitamins to make the medication more effective.
The need for ADHD medication may change as time passes. This is especially true if a patient experiences significant changes in their life. If someone is having trouble at school or at work it is recommended to speak with their doctor. Supervisors and coworkers are usually open and willing to make minor adjustments for those who suffers from ADHD to do their job. Being on a regular sleeping schedule can dramatically increase the symptoms of ADHD.
A therapist can assist individuals develop new strategies to overcome and manage their problems, whether working, at home or with their relationships. This kind of therapy can be conducted in a one-on-one, or a group setting and focuses on changing negative behaviors into positive ones. Counseling can assist family members in understanding how to support those with ADHD.
Counseling
Behavioral therapy, along with other psychosocial treatments can help improve ADHD symptoms. Medication is often combined with these treatments to improve outcomes. The medications used to treat adult ADHD comprise stimulants and non-stimulants. The drugs can help people focus better and be less impulsive. They also help people feel more peaceful. They can also help them develop and master new skills. These drugs are effective for a majority of people suffering from ADHD and their effects can last a long time. The medications do not cause dependence or habit formation. However, people who have a history of drug use disorders should be carefully evaluated before starting these medicines.
Many people with ADHD have trouble concentrating at work and school, which can cause problems for their careers and relationships. Counseling can teach them ways to improve their ability to listen, concentrate and follow directions at work or in school. This can help improve their performance and build confidence in themselves. Some therapy professionals specialize in working with those with ADHD.
The practice of behavior therapy can be carried out by individuals, in groups or with family members. The process of implementing behavioral therapy involves altering the environment to help it be more conducive to concentration, focus and learning. It also involves teaching people how to recognize what reinforces and triggers problematic behavior. It may also include training in coping techniques and exposure therapy, which aids people overcome certain fears and anxieties.
Therapists can assist with the emotional challenges that arise from ADHD. They can also teach strategies for improving family life and marriage and managing money, prioritizing tasks and coping with the stresses of daily living. They can also assist individuals and their families to understand ADHD and help them understand strategies to support someone who suffers from it.
Some people with ADHD may also suffer from anxiety or depression disorders. These conditions are difficult to treat. These disorders that are comorbid can make it more difficult to cope with the symptoms of ADHD. To find out if there are existing conditions contributing to the symptoms and a thorough medical history must be taken. People who have a history of seizures, developmental disorder, hearing or sight problems and sleep apnea need an additional evaluation, and possibly other treatment.
Medication Tests
The most effective medications can improve the most fundamental symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine (brain molecules that aid in the transmission of messages from one brain cell to another). Practitioners aren't able to predict beforehand which drug will be most effective for an individual, but they can determine which drug and the dosage that is most effective by conducting a trial. The trial starts with a small amount and is gradually increased over a period of 3-7 days until the desired clinical effects are achieved.
A thorough medical history is essential as many medical conditions mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders, psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties with language and learning, and some medical problems such as thyroid disorder, lead poisoning and hearing loss or vision loss.
There are a myriad of medications that can be used to treat adults suffering from ADHD. The most popular are stimulant drugs. However there are other medications as well. These include antidepressants which directly affect the brain chemical norepinephrine as well as certain anticholinergic drugs that lessen symptoms by decreasing the activity of the dopamine neurotransmitter. Some of these medications are not suitable for children. A neurologist or psychiatrist with expertise should be consulted prior prescribing any of them to an adult.
Behavioral therapy can be beneficial in treating ADHD for adults. Therapists can help individuals and their families develop techniques to help them manage their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organizational strategies. They can also provide emotional support and teach coping techniques. People with ADHD often have difficulties with relationships and their families, and therapy for marriage can help develop effective ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
For many adults, the best treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleeping habits. A regular bedtime and a good quality sleep can make a huge difference in their ability to concentrate, focus and behave.
Other treatments for ADHD for adults include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a talking therapy that helps people change their behavior patterns and thinking patterns and lifestyle changes, such as diet modification. Changes in diet can lessen ADHD symptoms in some people, but it should not be done without consulting your doctor first, as certain foods and supplements can worsen symptoms or cause them to disappear completely.
Other Treatments
Treatment for adults with ADHD involves a mix of psychosocial treatment and medication. These medications help people to focus and organize and make it easier to stay on top of tasks and maintain relationships. Psychosocial treatments aid people in learning techniques that can help reduce their symptoms and improve the way they function in daily life like time management and organizing strategies. These treatments are beneficial to people who aren't responding well to medications.
Behavioral coaching is an effective form of therapy for adults suffering from ADHD. It provides them with practical life skills such as managing their time, money, prioritizing their tasks, and improving their organizational skills. These coaches are not like traditional talk therapy that concentrates on emotional issues. Instead, they help people manage their behavior. Often, these coaches work from a distance and don't meet with their clients in person.
Many people suffering from ADHD are also suffering from mental health disorders, like bipolar disorder or major depression and addiction issues. These conditions can cause a lot of stress and can affect daily activities, so treating them is often an important factor prior to starting any ADHD treatment. Certain medications used to treat other disorders such as bupropion, (Wellbutrin) and atomoxetine, (Prozac) are also able to aid with ADHD.
Yoga and meditation are non-medicinal therapies that can help reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing focus and attention and decreasing the amount of impulsivity. These techniques for relaxation are usually taught in a class or check here individually. Other therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type therapy that seeks to change the way someone feels about a specific situation and can be conducted by a therapist in person or on the internet.
Sleep issues are common among people with ADHD, and poor quality of sleep can worsen the symptoms. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and abstaining from caffeine in the evening can help improve this.
The most effective treatment for adults ADHD is to combine medication and psychosocial treatment. Some people notice a significant improvement after taking medication, while others may not. Finding the right dosage and regimen can take time, so it's important to work with your doctor to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from this treatment.