What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from combination treatment. These treatments are usually multimodal, including medication, therapy and lifestyle changes.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used treatment for ADHD. Finding the right dose and balancing side effects can be a difficult process.
Atomoxetine is an anti-stimulant FDA approved, does not have the abuse potential associated with stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
Adults with ADHD are usually treated first with medication. Certain medications can ease symptoms and allow adults to perform better at school, work or at home. Medication alone may not solve all ADHD issues, and it can cause negative side effects. The most effective medication is when it is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy and lifestyle changes.
Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help adults who suffer from ADHD new skills to manage their behavior. It can help adults and their families learn how to deal with living with someone with ADHD. Family therapy and marriage counseling can help people deal with the issues that impulsive, inattentive behavior creates in families and relationships.
Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, are the most frequently prescribed drugs for adults with ADHD. They are thought to balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Patients with medical problems or a history of drug and alcohol abuse should speak with their health care provider prior to taking any stimulants. These stimulants can interact with common health conditions, including high blood pressure and heart disease. Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medication.
Nonstimulant drugs are often used to treat adult ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine release that does not have the abuse potential of stimulants. It is slower acting than stimulants, and can trigger side effects like stomach upset or difficulty sleeping. However, the majority of adults with ADHD find it effective. It is not recommended for people suffering from bipolar disorder, depression or Tourette's syndrome.
Some people with ADHD might also benefit from other medication such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants. These drugs are also used to treat depression and anxiety. However, they may enhance the attention and impulse control of some adults with ADHD.
Getting adequate sleep and following the same routine can increase the severity of ADHD symptoms. Avoiding coffee and sweet foods can also make ADHD symptoms worse.
Therapy
Many people with ADHD do not get treated for their condition. They may not realize they have it, or their health care providers do not recognize it. They struggle with everyday tasks like getting up, getting to work on time and being accountable in relationships and at work.
ADHD can be effectively treated to aid people in achieving success in their work, school and in their family life. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication (counseling) and lifestyle modifications. Combining these strategies is usually the best option.
The most frequently used medication for adults with adhd is stimulants. They regulate and enhance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters, which are believed to be the reason for ADHD symptoms. Other medications, like the nonstimulant atomoxetine, and some antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. These medications are less potent than stimulants, but can be more effective in treating ADHD in those who cannot take stimulants due to medical conditions or drug side-effects.
Individual talk therapy can help those with ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve relationship skills. It can also teach people to plan, organize and focus. Couples and family therapy, in addition to individual counseling can be helpful. Family and marriage counseling can help families and partners to comprehend the challenges of living with someone who has ADHD. They can also develop coping strategies that enhance communication.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is another kind of treatment for ADHD. This helps people identify and change negative thinking patterns. It also teaches practical strategies for dealing with life's stress like budgeting and financial management and organizational skills, diet changes and exercise. Other therapies can employ meditation to promote mental calmness and yoga practices to improve self-awareness, balance, and physical balance.
adhd treatment for adults without medication can be beneficial to add therapy to a medication regime, especially for adults. Not everyone with ADHD will benefit from a talk therapy. A health care provider must assess each patient to determine the most appropriate treatment option. In some instances, it is important to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD, such as mood disorders or other mental health issues and physical injuries or illness or substance abuse, or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Finding assistance for ADHD can be overwhelming. It is crucial to have an effective treatment plan that includes medication, training for skills and counseling.
In addition to helping manage your symptoms, therapy can also teach you strategies to deal with the negative effects of ADHD on your daily life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance, can help you recognize the negative thoughts and emotions. This can help you improve your ability control your behavior.
A Therapist can also teach you practical strategies to manage problems like time management, organization and control of your impulses. They can help you overcome emotional difficulties that are often associated with ADHD such as anxiety or depression. A professional who is knowledgeable about the impact of ADHD on your life can assist you and your loved ones and recognize that your issues might not be caused by "laziness" or a lack of effort.
Find a therapist who has experience treating adult ADHD. You might be able to ask your physician whether they specialize in psychotherapy for adults with ADHD or consult the American Psychological Association's directory. Psychotherapy can be expensive and therefore make sure that your health insurance covers it.
It's beneficial to find a therapist who has expertise in various types of therapy. For example the natural lifemanship method uses horses to teach people to regulate their energy and detect nonverbal signals. adhd treatment for adult women is mindfulness meditation, which helps reduce stress and improve attention regulation.
You might be interested in taking part in a clinical study which is a type research study. These studies could provide access to new treatments and aid researchers to learn more about how to treat or prevent ADHD. Ask your doctor if a clinical study is the right choice for you.
You should also rule out any other medical conditions which can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation), depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. It's also important to mention any past or current alcohol or drug abuse, since this can interfere with your ability to concentrate and pay attention.
Education
Treatment for adult ADHD should include therapy, medication, life skills training, and counseling. The same methods that work for children will often be effective for adults, however they may take longer to be effective because their bodies and brains have grown. It is also possible to treat psychiatric disorders that resemble ADHD symptoms.
For most people with ADHD, stimulants are the medication of choice. These help improve attention and reduce impulsivity. However, they can cause adverse effects, such as sleep and fatigue, which need to be addressed. They also can interact with certain medications and food items. Stimulants work best when they are started at a low dosage and gradually increased over a period of 7 days until you reach a level that manages your ADHD symptoms without too many side effects.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach you techniques to help you manage your ADHD symptoms. For instance, CBT can encourage you to alter your thoughts that lead to negative behaviors, such as procrastination. CBT can assist you in breaking down large tasks and create an organized routine. Marital and family counseling can aid you and your loved ones understand and help each other.
A healthy diet can help improve your ADHD symptoms and your overall health. Try to eat a balanced diet that includes fish, the vitamins zinc iron, magnesium and iron, and complex carbohydrates. It is also important to eat regularly, approximately three meals a day, and avoid skipping meals or eating sweet snacks. A balanced diet will give you energy throughout the day and boost your mood.
Some people suffering from ADHD struggle to get enough sleep. A poor night's sleep can make symptoms worse the next day. Set a regular bedtime and rise at the same time every day. Avoid smoking, caffeine, and alcohol before going to bed.
Participating in a clinical study could help you find better treatment for ADHD. Ask your doctor if you have the ability to participate in clinical trials.