ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH recommends individuals who think they might have ADHD talk with their health healthcare providers. A thorough examination will determine if symptoms are caused by mental health problems, stress or physical illnesses.
ADHD is often treated by medication. Nonstimulants and stimulants are also available to treat the condition.
Medicines
ADHD symptoms may be a symptom of many psychiatric disorders in both children and adults. Some of these include mood disorders, anxiety disorders and adjustment disorder. Chronic stress can also cause symptoms similar to ADHD. It is crucial to take into account these possibilities when evaluating an adult with symptoms that resemble those of ADHD. Once an appropriate diagnosis is made, medications are often recommended as an option to treat.
The most common medication prescribed for ADHD is stimulant medications. They can help to improve ADHD symptoms however they are not the only treatment option for those suffering from this disorder. The use of these medications should only be done after other treatments have been evaluated. They should not be used in place of the use of behavioral therapy.
There are two major types of stimulant drugs. Methylphenidate as well as dextro-amphetamine two drugs most commonly used to treat ADHD in adults. Both have been studied extensively and have been around for many years. They are available in various forms like tablets, liquids, and a skin patch. Adderall is the most popular brand. Stimulants increase the activity of neurotransmitters inside the brain. They are beneficial for the majority of people with ADHD but can cause side consequences such as tachycardia, and high blood pressure. They are not recommended for certain medical conditions, including Tourette syndrome and severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant medications are also a possibility for those suffering from ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine are selective norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitors that don't possess the abuse potential of stimulants. They do not perform as quickly as stimulants however they can provide significant improvement in ADHD symptoms in some adults.
The medication can decrease anxiety and depression as well as the severity of ADHD symptoms. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with comorbid ADHD and depression.
It is essential to keep visiting a physician regularly to check the body's reactions to the medication and to make sure that it is working. Initial appointments should be every 30 days. After this, appointments should be monthly until a stable dose is achieved, and then every three months thereafter.
Counseling
For adults with ADHD, psychotherapy is a very important treatment. The GP is often able to refer adults with ADHD to psychotherapists who specialize in the disorder. Some studies suggest that psychotherapy is more effective than medications for treating ADHD symptoms in adults. To determine the best treatment, it's essential to conduct a thorough medical history. A variety of medical conditions can trigger ADHD-like symptoms, including seizures (petit mal) thyroid disorders, lead poisoning, other nutritional deficiencies, sleep apnea and hearing and vision problems. Additionally, substance use disorders and certain medications may contribute to the symptoms of ADHD.
The use of medications is a crucial element of many treatments for ADHD and stimulant medications are the most frequently used. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed medication is a central nervous system stimulant and works by increasing activity in brain areas that control the flow of attention and impulses. It comes in immediate-release tablets that are small doses taken up to three times daily. Modified-release tablets provide a slower release of the drug throughout the day. The stimulants do not cause addiction and are not habit-forming. However, they may have side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking the medication and inform him the occurrence of any.
Psychotherapy can be extremely effective in helping patients suffering from a variety of problems associated with their ADHD problems, such as ineffective time management and organizational skills as well as impulsivity, social issues and academic failures, difficulty maintaining relationships, temper tantrums and even antisocial behaviour. Certain studies suggest that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may be more effective than other types of psychotherapy to treat ADHD symptoms in adults.
It is important to remember that every psychotherapy must include an element of education or training that addresses the specific problems that ADHD sufferers face, which include issues with memory and learning as well as poor organisational skills and the tendency for things to be lost. There is also increasing evidence that shows a link between certain physical ailments, like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), and neurological disorders that are multifaceted, such as ADHD and Tourettes.
Metacognitive therapy is a CBT method that is highly efficient in enhancing the performance of adults suffering from ADHD. It assists patients in developing strategies for improving their organizational skills, preparing ahead and resolving thinking distortions which can result in negative emotions or self-defeating beliefs. Stevenson and his co-workers developed CBT programs that are group-based for adults with ADHD. It has been found to be highly effective in improving their cognitive functioning as well as behavioral symptoms (Stevenson and. and. 2002). Rostain, along with colleagues, assessed the effectiveness of a treatment that included simultaneous medication and CBT for 43 adults with ADHD. They found improvements in both ADHD and anxiety or depression comorbidity (Rostain and coworkers 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Oft the most effective treatment for ADHD is to make lifestyle modifications. For example, ensuring sufficient sleep and healthy eating habits can dramatically improve symptoms. psychological treatment for adhd in adults can also help reduce hyperactivity, but it is important to find the activity that you enjoy and will be committed to. Stress and anxiety can be reduced by practicing relaxation techniques.
Organising your workspace will help you stay focused and keep the track of deadlines. You should consider setting aside time every day to organize your papers and other items. Use dividers and folders to separate documents. Label and color-code folders to make it easier to find the information you need.
Adults with ADHD often struggle with organization and procrastination which can interfere with their ability to complete tasks in a timely manner. Consider putting reminders on your calendar and set alarms on your phone to help keep track of deadlines.
Poor planning and organization skills can cause problems at home, school, and work. Adult ADHD treatment requires that these skills be developed. Many adults suffering from ADHD have trouble staying focused at work, which can impact their productivity and lead to embarrassment or frustration.
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from medications that boosts self-esteem and concentration. However, it is important to disclose any other medications you're taking to your health care provider, as certain medications interact with stimulants. NIMH's Medications for ADD and ADHD Fact Sheet contains more information about the types of medications used to treat these conditions.
While there are no foods that can cure ADHD the elimination of sugar and artificial additives can help reduce symptoms by promoting the health of your brain. Eating a balanced diet that is high in whole grains and protein sources can help to reduce hyperactivity.
Inadequate sleep can lead to irritation and lack of focus. Sleep deprivation can also increase the risk of developing depression and mood disorders. This is why it is important to establish a healthy routine to sleep and implement relaxation strategies before going to bed.
People suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to make long-term lifestyle adjustments. Consider rewarding your patients when achieving specific goals to encourage them to stick to their treatment plan. Giving a Hershey Kiss to those who make 10 gym trips is a great way to motivate them.
Accommodations
When a person uses accommodations to deal with a problem, they make changes to their surroundings or employ tools to control symptoms. For instance, if you're short, you may have to use a step stool to reach items on shelves in stores. Someone with ADHD may need to make adjustments to be successful at school or at work.
Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from a range of counseling methods that include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT involves working in tandem with a therapist to alter negative behavior and replace it with more positive behavior. It can also teach adults to improve their organizational skills as well as develop strategies to manage stress.
People with ADHD have a high probability of success in their careers and personal relationships. However, they may face challenges with everyday tasks, such as paying bills and maintaining the house in good condition. A mental health expert or health professional can help adults determine if they suffer from ADHD through an evaluation that includes psychological tests and a review the person's past behaviors and experiences.
The assessment will typically include an interview with the patient as well as their parents and other family members. A health care specialist or mental health professional could also request that the person complete the standardized ADHD symptoms rating scales or a questionnaire. They may also conduct psychological tests to assess a person's visual and spatial reasoning, executive functioning and reasoning abilities.
A thorough evaluation could also include looking at the patient's medical history and determining if there are any underlying conditions that could trigger ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, a learning disability or substance abuse. People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other health issues therefore a thorough evaluation is important.
In most cases, a person suffering from ADHD will be prescribed a stimulant medication to treat their symptoms. These stimulants are controlled substances, so they need to be monitored closely by a doctor. Some of the side effects include insomnia and addiction. Certain adults suffering from ADHD have a difficult time keeping the medication on for long periods of time, as they don't feel the symptoms diminishing.