What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
Most people with ADHD benefit from a mix of treatments. These treatments are typically multimodal, which includes medication, therapy and lifestyle modifications.
The most frequently prescribed treatment for ADHD is stimulants. Finding the right dosage and balancing the side effects can be a trial and error procedure.
Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant FDA approved, does not have the danger of abuse that is associated with stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
Adults with ADHD are typically treated first by medication. Research has proven that certain medications improve symptoms and can assist adults to perform better at school, work, or home. The use of medication alone isn't enough to solve all ADHD problems and can have negative side consequences. The most effective treatment is when it is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle changes and therapy.
Talk therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy can teach people who suffer from ADHD new techniques to manage their behavior. It can aid families and adults learn how to deal with having a child with ADHD. Marriage and family therapy can help people cope with the problems that impulsive and inattentional behaviors can cause in relationships and families.
Adult ADHD is typically treated with stimulant medications like amphetamines and methylphenidate. They seem to balance the levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. People with medical problems or those who have a history of drug or alcohol use should talk about these issues with their health care provider before taking any stimulants. The effects of stimulants can be a factor in common health issues, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. It's important to tell your doctor about any other supplements or medications you are taking.
Nonstimulant drugs are often used to treat adult ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process that lacks the abuse potential of stimulants. It has a slower effect than stimulants and may cause negative effects, like stomach upset and difficulty sleeping however it is highly effective in most adults with ADHD. It is not recommended for individuals suffering from bipolar disorder, depression or Tourette's syndrome.
Other medications, such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants can also be helpful for some people with ADHD. These drugs are used to treat mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, however they can help improve the ability to focus and control impulses in people who suffer from ADHD.
A good night's sleep and adhering to the same routine can increase the severity of ADHD symptoms. It's also important to avoid caffeine and sugary foods which can make them worse.
Therapy
Many people with ADHD don't receive treatment for their disorder. It's possible that they don't know they have it, or their doctors don't recognize it. They are unable to manage daily tasks like getting up, going to work on time, and remaining accountable at work and in relationships.
Effective treatment for ADHD can aid those who suffer from the condition to excel in school, work and family life. Treatments include medication, counseling and lifestyle adjustments. Combining these methods is usually the most effective approach.
The most commonly used medication for adult adhd is stimulants. They regulate and enhance levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. They are believed to be responsible for ADHD symptoms. ADHD is also treated by other medications, such as Atomoxetine which is a nonstimulant and certain antidepressants. These drugs are not as potent as stimulants, but can be more effective in treating ADHD in those who are unable to use stimulants due to medical conditions or adverse drug effects.
Individual therapy can help people with ADHD how to manage their emotions and improve their relationship skills. It can also teach strategies to organize and concentrate, as well as plan. Couples and family therapy along with individual counseling, can be beneficial. Family and marriage counseling can help families and partners to recognize the difficulties of living with someone suffering from ADHD. They can also devise strategies for coping that improve communication.
Other types of therapy for ADHD could include cognitive behavioral therapy, which assists people recognize and alter negative patterns of thinking. It can also teach practical strategies for managing life's stresses, such as budgeting and managing money, organizational skills, dietary changes and exercise. Other therapies may use meditation to help promote calm and yoga techniques to cultivate balance, self-awareness, and physical balance.
Adding therapy to the medication regimen can be highly beneficial, especially for adults. Not everyone suffering from ADHD will benefit from talking therapy. A doctor must assess each patient to determine the most effective treatment option. In certain instances, it is important to exclude other conditions that may cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD like mental health or mood disorder issues, as well as physical illnesses or injuries, addiction to drugs, or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Helping someone suffering from ADHD can be a daunting task. It is crucial to find an approach that is multi-modal and includes a combination of medication, skills training, and counseling.
Therapy can assist you in managing your symptoms and help you learn how to manage the negative effects of ADHD in your daily life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example can help you identify negative emotions and patterns of thinking. This, in turn, can improve your ability to manage your behavior.
A therapist can teach you how to manage issues such as time management, organizing and controlling your impulses. They can also help you work through emotional difficulties that can be a result of ADHD such as depression or anxiety. A counselor who is experienced with the effects of ADHD on your life can help your loved ones and understand that your problems may not be caused by "laziness" or a lack of effort.
When choosing a therapist, look for someone who is skilled in treating adults with ADHD. Ask your doctor if he/she is a specialist in psychotherapy for adults with ADHD. You may also consult the directory of the American Psychological Association. Because psychotherapy is expensive, make sure that your health insurance covers the cost.
It's helpful to find a therapist who has experience in a variety of therapy. For instance, natural lifemanship uses horses to teach people to regulate their energy and detect non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness meditation which can help reduce stress and improve the ability to regulate attention.
You may be interested in taking part in a clinical study, which is a type of research study. These studies can offer access to new treatments and researchers can gain knowledge about how ADHD is treated or prevented. Consult your physician to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a clinical study.
It's also important to rule out other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD, such as sleep apnea, depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. It's also worth mentioning any current or past alcohol or drug abuse, since it can affect your ability to concentrate and pay attention.
Education
Treatment for adult ADHD should consist of therapy, medication and life skills training and counseling. Adults may benefit from the same therapies as children, however it might take longer for them to work because their bodies and minds have developed. It could also be necessary to treat psychiatric disorders that mimic ADHD symptoms.
Most people with ADHD opt for stimulants as their preferred drug. These medications improve attention and reduce the impulsiveness. They can also cause side effects such as fatigue or sleep problems that need to addressed. They can also interact with certain foods and medications. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase it over a period of 7 days until you can manage your ADHD symptoms without experiencing any adverse effects.
You can acquire the skills necessary to manage ADHD symptoms through psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. For example, CBT can encourage you to alter your thoughts that cause negative behaviors like procrastination. CBT can assist you in breaking down large tasks and develop an organized routine. Counseling for families and marriage helps you and your loved one to be able to communicate and help them.
untreated adhd in female adults will improve your ADHD symptoms as well as your overall health. Eat a balanced diet, which includes fish, vitamins like zinc, iron, and magnesium, as well as complex carbohydrates. It is also important to eat regularly, at least three times a day, and avoid taking a break from meals or eating sugary snacks. A balanced diet will give you energy throughout the day and boost your mood.
Some people with ADHD struggle to sleep enough. A bad night of sleep can cause more symptoms the following day. Set a regular bedtime, and rise at the same time each day. Avoid smoking, caffeine and alcohol prior to going to bed.
Participating in a study can help you find a better treatment for ADHD. Talk to your doctor about clinical trials and whether you are eligible for.