ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH recommends that those who suspect they might have ADHD consult their healthcare providers. A thorough evaluation can determine if the symptoms are caused by stress, other mental health issues, or physical illness.
ADHD is often treated by medication. There are stimulants as well as nonstimulants to treat this disorder.
Medicines
Many mental disorders are akin to ADHD symptoms in adults and children. Some of these include anxiety disorders, mood disorders and adjustment disorders. In addition chronic stress can trigger various symptoms that appear similar to ADHD. It is essential to consider these possibilities when evaluating an adult suffering from ADHD-like symptoms. Following a thorough diagnosis medication is usually prescribed as a treatment.
Stimulant medication is the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. They can greatly improve ADHD-related symptoms, but aren't the only treatment for those suffering from this condition. The use of medication should only be done after other treatments have been tried. They shouldn't be used as a substitute for behavioral therapy.
There are two main kinds of stimulant drugs. Methylphenidate (also called methylphenidate) and dextroamphetamine (also known as dextroamphetamine) are the two most commonly used drugs to treat ADHD in adults. Both have been extensively studied and have been around for a long time. They are available in various forms including tablets, liquids, and a skin patch. The most well-known brand name is Adderall. Stimulants boost the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain. adhd treatment for adults are effective for most people suffering from ADHD however they can also cause side effects such as tachycardia and high blood pressure. They are not advised in certain medical conditions, including Tourette syndrome and severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant medications are also an option for some people with ADHD. Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera (Strattera), and viloxazine are both selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They don't have the same abuse potential as stimulants. They aren't as effective as stimulants, but they do provide significant improvements in ADHD symptoms for some adults.
The medication can decrease depression and anxiety as well as the severity of ADHD symptoms. This is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD and depression.
It is vital to continue seeing a doctor regularly to check the body's reactions to the medication and ensure that the medication is working. Initial appointments should take place every 30 days. After that, appointments are to be scheduled every month until a steady dose is reached and then every 3 months.
Counseling
Psychotherapy is an important treatment for adults with ADHD. The GP is often able to refer adults with ADHD to psychotherapists that specialize in the disorder. Some studies suggest that psychotherapy is more effective than medication to treat ADHD symptoms in adults. However, a thorough medical history must be conducted to determine the most effective treatment options. Numerous medical conditions can trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD, such as seizures (petit mal), thyroid disorders, lead poisoning and other nutritional deficiencies, sleep apnea as well as problems with vision and hearing. Alcohol abuse disorders and certain medications can also cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
Most ADHD treatments include medication, and stimulant drugs are the most commonly used. Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that increases activity in brain areas that regulate the impulses and attention. It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken up to three times daily) and modified-release tablets which allow for a longer release the drug throughout the day. Stimulants aren't considered habit-forming and have no potential to cause dependence, but they could cause side effects, so it is important to consult an GP prior to starting them and let your GP be aware if you have any.
Psychotherapy can be extremely effective in helping patients who suffer from various issues related to their ADHD issues, such as poor time management and organization skills and impulsivity, social problems, academic failures, trouble maintaining relationships, temper outbursts and even antisocial behaviour. Some studies suggest cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) could be more effective than other forms 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 particular issues that ADHD sufferers face, including learning and memory issues, poor organisational abilities and the tendency for things to be lost. Additionally, there's increasing research that shows 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 effective in improving the functioning of adults with ADHD. It helps patients develop strategies to improve their organization skills, preparing ahead and overcoming thinking distortions that can result in negative emotions or self-defeating belief. Stevenson and his co-workers developed a group-based CBT program for adults suffering from ADHD. It was found to be highly effective in improving their cognitive functioning and behavior-related symptoms (Stevenson et. al. 2002). Rostain and colleagues have also evaluated the efficacy of a combination treatment that combines pharmacotherapy and CBT in 43 people with ADHD and observed improvements in both ADHD symptoms as well as comorbid anxiety and depression (Rostain and colleagues 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Often, the most effective treatments for ADHD are based on lifestyle changes. For instance, ensuring adequate sleep and a healthy diet can dramatically improve symptoms. Regular exercise can aid in reducing hyperactivity, but it is crucial to choose an activity you enjoy and will be committed to. In addition, implementing relaxation techniques can ease anxiety and stress.
Organising your workspace can help you stay focused and on track with deadlines. You should consider setting aside a regular time to organize your papers and supplies, and try using file folders and dividers to separate different kinds of documents. Label and color-code your folders to aid in finding the information you need.
Adults suffering from ADHD struggle with procrastination, organization and apathy and this can hinder their ability to complete tasks in a timely manner. Try putting reminders in your calendar and set alarms on your phone to help you meet deadlines.
Poor organization and planning skills can cause problems at work, school as well as at home. The development of these skills is a crucial component of treating ADHD in adults. Many people with ADHD struggle to remain 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 crucial to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, since certain medications may interact with stimulants. The NIMH Fact Sheet on Medications for ADD/ADHD provides more details about the drugs used to treat this condition.
While there are no foods that can cure ADHD but avoiding sugary and artificial additives can help reduce symptoms by promoting the health of your brain. Eating a well-balanced diet with a high proportion of whole grains and proteins, vegetables and fruits can help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Inadequate sleep can lead to irritation and lack of concentration. Additionally sleep deprivation can increase the chance of developing depression and mood disorders. It is therefore important to establish a healthy routine for sleeping and to practice relaxation techniques before going to bed.
People suffering from ADHD may have difficulty to make permanent lifestyle adjustments. Consider rewarding your patients when achieving specific goals to encourage them to stick to their treatment plan. Giving the reward of a Hershey Kiss to those who make 10 gym trips is a great way to motivate them.
Accommodations
If a person is using accommodations to deal with an issue, they make changes to their environment or use tools to manage symptoms. If you're small and need an aid step stool to reach the items on shelves of the shop. Also, a person suffering from ADHD may require accommodations to ensure they succeed in school or at work.
Adults with ADHD might also benefit from counseling techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT involves working in tandem with a therapist to change negative behavior and replace it with more positive behaviors. It can also help adults improve their organizational skills and develop strategies for managing stress.
People with ADHD are often successful in their careers and personal relationships. However, they can face challenges with everyday tasks, such as paying for bills and keeping a home. A mental health specialist or health care professional can assist adults in determining whether they suffer from ADHD by conducting an assessment that includes psychological testing and a review the person's past behaviour and experiences.
The assessment will typically include a discussion with the patient parents, the patient, and other family members. A health care provider or mental health professional could also request that the person complete the standardized ADHD symptom rating scales or a questionnaire. They may also conduct psychological testing to determine a person's thinking, executive functioning and visual-spatial capabilities.
A comprehensive evaluation may also include a thorough examination of medical records and a determination of whether there are any underlying conditions that could be causing ADHD. These include depression, anxiety or learning disabilities, or alcohol abuse. People suffering from ADHD may also be suffering from other medical conditions. A thorough assessment is essential.
In the majority of instances, a stimulant drug is prescribed to treat the symptoms of ADHD. They are a controlled substance and must be closely monitored by a physician. They can have side effects, such as insomnia and addiction. Certain people with ADHD have difficulty staying on the medication long term, because they don't experience any symptoms improving.