ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH suggests that anyone who believes they may have ADHD discuss the possibility with their health care providers. A thorough assessment will determine if the symptoms are due to mental health issues, stress or physical ailments.
Medicines are usually the first treatment option for ADHD. There are stimulants and nonstimulants available to treat this condition.
Medicines
ADHD symptoms could be a symptom of many psychiatric disorders in both adults and children. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders and adjustment disorders. In addition chronic stress can trigger various symptoms that appear like ADHD. When looking at an adult with symptoms that resemble those of ADHD, it's essential to look into these possibilities. After a diagnosis is established, medication is often suggested as a treatment option.
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulant drugs. They can help to improve ADHD symptoms, but they are not the only treatment available for people with 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 and dextro-amphetamine are the two most commonly used medications to treat ADHD in adults. Both have been thoroughly studied and have been in use for a long time. The medications are available in various forms such as liquids and tablets. They can also be applied to the skin. Adderall is the most popular brand. The stimulant drugs enhance the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain. They are beneficial for the majority of people with ADHD but they can cause adverse effects like tachycardia or high blood pressure. They are also contraindicated for some medical conditions like Tourette's syndrome or severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant drugs are also an option for those suffering from ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine are selective norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitors that don't have the potential for abuse as stimulants. They do not work as quickly as stimulants but they do offer significant improvement in ADHD symptoms in some adults.
The medication can decrease anxiety and depression, in addition to the severity of ADHD symptoms. This is particularly beneficial for people with ADHD and depression.
It is vital to continue visiting a physician regularly to observe the bodily reactions to the medication and to ensure that it is working effectively. Initial appointments should be scheduled every 30 days. After that, appointments are to be made every month until a stable dose is achieved, and then every 3 months thereafter.
Counseling
Psychotherapy is an important treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. The GP is often able to refer adults with ADHD to psychotherapists that specialize in the disorder. Psychotherapy may be more effective than medication when it comes to treating ADHD symptoms among adults, according to some studies. However an extensive medical history should be taken to determine the best treatment options. adhd treatment in adults I Am Psychiatry can trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD, such as seizures (petit mal) thyroid disorders, lead poisoning and other nutritional deficiencies, sleep apnea, and issues with vision and hearing. In addition, substance use disorders and certain medications can also contribute to ADHD-like symptoms.
Most ADHD treatments involve medication and stimulant drugs are the most frequently used. Methylphenidate, which is the most commonly used medication, is a central nervous system stimulant. It works by increasing activity in brain regions that control the flow of attention and impulses. It is available in both immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets that offer a longer release of the drug throughout the day. Stimulants aren't considered habit-forming and aren't likely to lead to addiction, but they can produce side effects, which is why it's important to consult a doctor before starting or stopping them. Also, let your GP be aware if you have 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 organization skills and impulsivity, social problems, academic failures, trouble maintaining relationships, temper outbursts and even antisocial behaviour. Certain studies suggest that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) could be more effective than other forms of psychotherapy to treat ADHD symptoms for adults.
It is crucial to note that every psychotherapy should include an element of education or training that addresses particular issues that ADHD sufferers face, including learning and memory issues, poor organisational abilities and the tendency for things to get lost. Additionally, there is growing research that demonstrates 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 extremely effective in improving the functioning of adults with ADHD. It assists patients in developing strategies to improve their organization abilities, preparing for the future and resolving the distortions in their thinking that can lead to negative emotions or self-defeating belief. Stevenson and his colleagues created CBT programs that are group-based for adults with ADHD. It has been found to be highly efficient in improving their cognitive functioning as well as behavioral symptoms (Stevenson et. al. 2002). Rostain and colleagues have also examined the effectiveness of a treatment that combines pharmacotherapy and CBT for 43 adults suffering from ADHD and reported improvements in both ADHD symptoms as well as comorbid depression and anxiety (Rostain and colleagues 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Oft, the most effective treatment for ADHD involves lifestyle adjustments. For example, ensuring adequate sleep and a balanced diet can improve symptoms. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity. However, it is important to choose an activity you love and keep up with. In addition, practicing relaxation techniques can reduce anxiety and stress.
The organization of your workspace can help you stay on task and keep on top of deadlines. Set aside a daily time to organize your papers and supplies, and try using dividers and file folders to divide different kinds of documents. Be sure to label and color-code your folders so you can find the items you require quickly.
Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently struggle with procrastination and organization, which can hinder their ability to finish work tasks in a timely manner. Set alarms on your smartphone and add reminders to your calendar.
Poor planning and organizational skills can lead to problems at work, school and at home. The development of these skills is an essential aspect of treating ADHD in adults. Many adults suffering from ADHD have difficulty staying focused at work, which can impact their productivity and result in embarrassment or anger.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication that improves concentration and self-esteem. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, since certain of them can interact with stimulants. The NIMH Fact Sheet on Medications to Treat ADD/ADHD gives more details on the medications used to treat this condition.
While there are no foods that cure ADHD the elimination of sugar and artificial additives can help manage symptoms by promoting the health of your brain. Eating a balanced diet that is high in whole grains and lean proteins can help reduce hyperactivity.
Inadequate sleep can lead to irritation and lack of concentration. In addition sleep deprivation increases the chance of developing depression and mood disorders. This is why it is important to establish a good routine to sleep and implement relaxation techniques before getting to bed.
Making sustainable, long-term lifestyle changes can be difficult for those suffering from ADHD. To motivate your patients to adhere to their treatment regimens you could offer them rewards for achieving specific goals. For instance, offering an Hershey Kiss after 10 trips to the gym is a great incentive for some individuals.
Accommodations
If a person is using accommodations to manage the issue, they make changes to their environment or use tools to manage symptoms. For instance If you're short, you might need to use a step stool in order to access shelves in stores. A person suffering from ADHD may require accommodations to be successful in work or school.
Adults suffering from ADHD might also benefit from counseling techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT involves working together with a therapist in order to alter negative behavior and replace it with positive behaviors. It can also teach adults to improve their organizational skills and devise strategies for managing stress.
People with ADHD generally have success in their work and in their relationships with family and friends. They may struggle in everyday tasks like paying their bills and maintaining their home. A health care professional or mental health specialist can help an adult determine if they have ADHD by conducting a thorough examination, including psychological testing and an analysis of the individual's childhood behavior and experiences.
The examination will usually involve a discussion with the patient parents, the patient, and other family members. A mental health professional or health care provider might also request that the patient fill out a questionnaire, or standard ADHD symptoms rating scales. They could also conduct psychological tests to evaluate the person's spatial and visual thinking, reasoning and executive functioning capabilities.
A thorough evaluation could also include examining a person's medical history and determining if there are any underlying conditions that could trigger ADHD like depression, anxiety, a learning disability, or addiction to drugs. People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other medical conditions and a thorough assessment is essential.
In most cases, a stimulant medication will be prescribed to treat the symptoms of ADHD. These stimulants are controlled substances, should be closely monitored by a medical professional. They can have side effects, including insomnia and addiction. Certain adults who suffer from ADHD find it difficult to remain on the medication for long periods of time because they don't see any improvement in their symptoms.