What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit from a mixture of treatments. These treatments are usually multimodal and can include therapy, medication and lifestyle changes.
Stimulants are the most common medications for ADHD. Finding the right dosage and balancing the side effects can be a trial-and-error process.
Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant approved by FDA that doesn't have the potential to abuse that stimulants do. It can be taken by mouth.
Medication
Medications are generally the first treatment option for adults with ADHD. Certain medications can improve symptoms and allow adults to function more effectively at work, school or at home. The use of medication alone isn't enough to solve all ADHD problems and can have side negative effects. The most effective treatment is when it is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle adjustments and treatment.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can aid adults with ADHD develop new skills to manage behavior. It can also assist parents and children deal with the challenges of living with someone with ADHD. Family therapy and marriage counseling can help people cope with the problems that impulsive and inattentive behaviors create in families and relationships.
Adult ADHD is usually treated with stimulant medications like amphetamines and methylphenidate. They are believed to regulate levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. Before taking stimulants, those who suffer from medical conditions or with a history of drug or alcohol abuse should speak with their physician. Some stimulants can cause common health problems such as heart disease and high blood pressure. It's important to inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking.
Nonstimulant medicines are often used to treat adult ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine release that lacks the abuse potential of stimulants. It has a slower effect than stimulants, and can cause adverse effects, including stomach upset and insomnia however it is highly effective for most adults suffering from ADHD. It is not recommended for people who suffer from bipolar disorder, depression or Tourette's disorder.
Some people who suffer from ADHD may benefit from other medications such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants. These medications are used to treat mental health issues like depression and anxiety, however they can help improve attention and impulse control in some adults with ADHD.
A good night's sleep and a regular routine can help to reduce ADHD symptoms. It's also important to avoid caffeine and sugary foods which can make them worse.
Therapy
Many people suffering from ADHD aren't being treated for their condition. It's possible that they aren't aware they have it, or their doctors don't recognize it. They may have trouble completing daily tasks like getting up, going to the office on time, and being responsible at work and in their relationships.
Effective treatment for ADHD can aid those with the condition to succeed in work, school and family life. Treatments can include medication, psychotherapy (counseling) and lifestyle modifications. Combining these approaches is often the best option.
The most common medication used for adults with adhd is stimulants. They increase and balance the levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters that are believed to cause the symptoms of ADHD. Other medications, including the nonstimulant atomoxetine, and some antidepressants, are also utilized to treat ADHD. These medications work slower than stimulants, and can be more effective for those who have difficulty taking stimulants due to other medical issues or drug-related side negative effects.
Individual talk therapy can help those suffering from ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve their interpersonal skills. It can teach strategies for organizing and concentrate, as well as plan. In addition to individual counseling, couples and family therapy can be helpful. Marriage and family counseling helps families and their partners comprehend the challenges of living with someone suffering from ADHD. They can also develop coping strategies to improve communication.
Other types of therapy for ADHD could include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps individuals recognize and alter negative patterns of thinking. It also teaches practical strategies for dealing with life's stress like budgeting and managing money, organizational skills, diet changes and exercise. Other treatments may employ mindfulness meditation to promote mindfulness and yoga techniques to develop self-awareness and balance, or relaxation exercises like deep breathing.
Incorporating therapy into an existing medication regimen could be highly beneficial, especially for adults. Not everyone suffering from ADHD will benefit from talking therapy. A health care provider must examine each patient to determine the most appropriate treatment option. In certain instances it is crucial to identify other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD such as mood disorders or other mental health problems in addition to physical injuries or illness as well as substance abuse or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Helping someone suffering from ADHD can be a daunting task. It's important to seek an intervention plan that is multimodal and includes an array of medications training for skills, counseling.
Therapy can aid in managing your symptoms and teach you how to manage the negative consequences of ADHD in your life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance can help you identify unhelpful emotions and thinking patterns. This, in turn, will help you better manage your behaviour.
A therapist can teach you how to manage issues like time management, organizing, and impulse control. They can also help you deal with emotional issues that can be a result of ADHD, such as anxiety or depression. A professional who is knowledgeable about the effects of ADHD on your life can assist you and your loved ones and you understand that your problems may not be due to "laziness" or an inability to work.
Look for a therapist who has experience treating adult ADHD. Ask your doctor if he/she has a specialization in psychotherapy for adults with ADHD. You may also consult the directory of the American Psychological Association. Psychotherapy can be costly so make sure your health insurance policy covers it.
It's beneficial to find a therapist with experience in different types of therapy. For instance the natural lifemanship method uses horses to help people learn to manage their energy levels and recognize nonverbal signals. Another alternative is mindfulness meditation, which helps people reduce stress and improve attention regulation.
You may also be interested in participating in the clinical trial which is a research study. These studies can offer access to new treatments and help researchers learn more about how to treat or prevent ADHD. Ask your doctor if you are a good candidate for a clinical trial.
It is also important to make sure you are free of any other medical conditions which could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation) as well as depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. It's also important to mention any recent or ongoing drug use, as this can interfere with your ability to focus and pay attention.
Education
Treatment for adults with ADHD should include medication, therapy as well as life skills training and counseling. The same methods that work for kids will generally be effective for adults, however they may take longer to begin working due to the fact that their brains and bodies have grown. It is also possible to treat psychiatric disorders that resemble ADHD symptoms.
For the majority of people with ADHD, stimulants are the drugs of choice. These help improve attention and reduce impulsivity. They can cause adverse effects like insomnia or fatigue that require attention. They can also interact with certain medications and foods. Stimulants work best when they start at a low dose and gradually increased over a period of 7 days until you reach a dose that helps manage your ADHD symptoms without too many adverse side effects.
Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you develop techniques to help you manage your ADHD symptoms. CBT can, for instance, can help you to change your distorted thinking that leads to negative behaviors like procrastination. CBT can help you break down big tasks and create a more structured routine. Counseling for families and marriage helps you and your loved one to understand each other and support them.
A healthy diet will improve your ADHD symptoms and your overall health. Consume a balanced diet which includes fish, vitamins such as zinc, iron and magnesium, in addition to complex carbohydrates. Aiming to eat three meals per day is essential. Avoid skipping meals and eating sweet snacks. adhd in adults untreated will keep you energized all day long and improve your mood.
Some people with ADHD struggle to get enough sleep. A bad night's sleep can cause symptoms to worsen the next day. You can improve your sleep by setting a regular time for bed and waking up at the same time each day even on weekends. Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol before going to bed.
Participating in a clinical study could help you find a better treatment for ADHD. Discuss with your doctor about clinical trials and whether you are eligible for.