What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from combination treatment. The treatments typically are multimodal and can include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used treatment for ADHD. Finding the right dosage and balancing the side effects can be a challenge.
Atomoxetine is a FDA-approved non-stimulant that is not a stimulant and does not carry the potential for abuse of stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
Adults with ADHD tend to be treated with medication first. Studies have shown that certain medications help with symptoms and assist adults to perform better at school, work or at home. It is not enough to treat all ADHD problems and can have adverse effects. The most effective treatment is when it is part of a complete treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle adjustments and treatment.
Talk therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach adults who suffer from ADHD new techniques to manage their behavior. It can also assist parents and children to deal with the challenges of living with someone with ADHD. Marriage and family therapy can help people cope with the issues that impulsive or inattentive behaviors create in families and relationships.
Stimulant medicines, such as amphetamines and methylphenidate are the most commonly prescribed medications for adults suffering from ADHD. They are thought to balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. People who have medical conditions or a history of drug and alcohol abuse should discuss these issues with their physician prior to taking any stimulants. The effects of stimulants can be a factor in common health issues like heart disease and high blood pressure, so 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 is also referred to as Strattera is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine-reuptake that does not have the same potential for abuse as stimulants. It has a slower onset than stimulants, and it can trigger side effects like stomach upset and difficulty sleeping. However, the majority of people with ADHD are able to use it effectively. It is not recommended for people suffering from Tourette's syndrome, depression or bipolar disorder.
Other medications, including antidepressants and mood stabilizers, can be beneficial to certain people suffering from ADHD. These drugs are also used to treat anxiety and depression. However, they may help improve the ability to focus and control impulses of some adults with ADHD.
Getting adequate sleep and following the same routine can improve ADHD symptoms. Avoiding caffeine and sugary food can make symptoms of ADHD worse.
Therapy
Many adults with ADHD are not treated for their disorder. They may not be aware that they have it or their health care providers don't recognize it. They are having difficulty with daily tasks like getting up, getting to work on time, and being accountable in their relationships as well as at work.
Effective treatment for ADHD can make it easier for people with the condition to succeed at work, school and in family life. Treatments can include medication, psychotherapy (counseling) and lifestyle modifications. Combining these methods is usually the most effective approach.
The most common medication used to treat adult adhd is stimulants. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, which are believed to be the reason for ADHD symptoms. ADHD is also treated by other medications, such as Atomoxetine which is a nonstimulant and certain antidepressants. These drugs work slower than stimulants, and can be more effective for those who aren't able to take stimulants due to medical issues or drug-related side negative effects.
Individual therapy can help those suffering from ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve relationship skills. It can also teach people to plan, organize and stay focused. In addition to individual counseling, couples and family therapy can be beneficial. Counseling for families and marriage can help partners and families to understand the unique challenges of living with a person who has ADHD and develop coping skills that help improve communication and problem-solving.
Other forms of therapy for ADHD may include cognitive behavior therapy, which helps people recognize and modify negative patterns of thinking. It can also teach practical strategies to manage life's stresses, such as budgeting and money management and organizational skills, as well as dietary changes and exercises. Other treatments may employ meditation to promote mental calmness and yoga techniques to develop balance, self-awareness, and physical balance.
It is beneficial to add therapy to a medication regime, especially for adults. However, not everyone with ADHD can benefit from a single therapy session, and a health care professional should assess each patient to see what treatment options are most efficient. In some cases it is crucial to exclude other conditions that could have similar symptoms similar to ADHD, such a mental health disorder or mood issues, and physical ailments or injuries, substance abuse, or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Helping someone suffering from ADHD is a difficult task. It is important to choose a multimodal treatment plan that includes medication, training for skills as well as counseling.
In addition to helping you manage your symptoms, therapy can also teach you ways to manage the negative impact of ADHD on your life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance can help you identify unhelpful emotions and thinking patterns. This will help you improve your ability manage your behavior.
A therapist can show you how to deal with issues such as managing time, organizing and controlling your impulses. They can help you overcome emotional problems that are typically associated with ADHD, such depression or anxiety. A therapist who is familiar with the impact of ADHD on your life can support your loved ones and you understand that your problems may not be due to "laziness" or lack of effort.
When selecting a therapist, seek out a therapist who is experienced in treating adults with ADHD. Ask your doctor if he/she she specializes in psychotherapy for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also check the directory of the American Psychological Association. Because psychotherapy is expensive so make sure your health insurance will cover the cost.
It is also beneficial to choose a therapist that has experience with various types of therapy, such as natural lifemanship, which employs horses as a partner to teach people to control their body energy and to recognize non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness meditation which can help people manage stress and improve their attention control.
You may also be interested in joining a clinical trial which is a research study. These studies can provide access to new treatments, and researchers can gain knowledge about how ADHD is treated or prevented. Ask your doctor if you are a suitable candidate for a clinical trial.
You should also rule out any other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation) as well as depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. You should also mention any substance abuse issues in the past or in the present because it could affect your ability to focus and focus.
Education
A successful treatment plan for adult ADHD includes therapy and medication, including life skills training and counseling. Adults may benefit from the same treatment as children, but it may take longer for them to be successful because their bodies and minds have matured. Additionally, psychiatric disorders that mimic ADHD symptoms might require treatment as well.
The majority of people with ADHD use stimulants as their preferred drug. These medications enhance attention and reduce impulsivity. However, first line treatment for adhd in adults can cause adverse effects, such as sleep and fatigue, which require attention. Additionally, they may interact with certain medications and foods. Begin with a low dosage, and increase it over a period of 7 days until you reach a point where you can manage your ADHD symptoms without experiencing any adverse effects.
Psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you develop strategies to help you manage your ADHD symptoms. For instance, CBT can encourage you to alter your thoughts that cause negative behaviors, such as procrastination. CBT can also help you understand how to break down large tasks into smaller ones and establish a more organized routine. Marital and family counseling can help you and your loved ones to understand and help each other.
A healthy diet can improve your ADHD symptoms as well as your overall health. A balanced diet which includes fish, nutrients like iron, zinc and magnesium, as well as complex carbohydrates. It is also essential to eat regularly, approximately three meals a day and avoid taking a break from meals or snacking on sugary foods. A healthy diet will boost your energy all day long and improve your mood.
Certain people with ADHD struggle to sleep enough. A sleepless night can worsen symptoms the next day. Set a regular bedtime, and wake up at the same time every day. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol before bed.
You might be able discover better solutions for your ADHD by participating in a clinical trial. Talk to your doctor about clinical trials and if you are a candidate.