What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit from a mix of treatments. The treatments typically are multimodal and can include medication, therapy and lifestyle changes.
treatment for add adhd in adults for ADHD is stimulants. 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 for abuse of stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
Medications are generally the first treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. Certain medications can improve symptoms and help adults perform better at work, school or at home. However, a single medication may not be able to solve all ADHD-related issues in a person's daily life and can sometimes cause side negative effects. The most effective treatment is when it is part of a complete treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle changes and treatment.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist adults suffering from ADHD learn new skills to manage behavior. It can aid families and adults learn to manage having a child with ADHD. Therapy for families and marriage can help people cope with the issues that impulsive and inattentive behaviors create in families and relationships.
Stimulant drugs, like amphetamines and methylphenidate are the most commonly prescribed medications for adults suffering from ADHD. They appear to balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. People with medical problems or those who have a history of drug or alcohol use should talk about these issues with their physician before taking any stimulants. These stimulants can interact with common health conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Tell your doctor if taking any other medication.
Adult ADHD is sometimes treated with nonstimulant medications. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process that lacks the abuse potential of stimulants. It has a slower onset than stimulants and can trigger side effects like stomach upset and difficulty sleeping. However, most people with ADHD find it effective. It is not recommended to people with Tourette's Syndrome or bipolar disorder, depression, or both.
Other medications, like mood stabilizers and antidepressants, are also beneficial for those suffering from ADHD. These drugs are also used to treat anxiety and depression. However, they can help improve the attention and control of some adults suffering from ADHD.
A good night's sleep and a regular routine can help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Avoiding caffeine and sugary food can also make ADHD symptoms worse.
Therapy
Many people suffering from ADHD are not treated for their condition. They may not realize they have it, or their health professionals don't recognize it. They may have trouble completing daily tasks like getting up, making it to work on time, and being responsible at work and in their relationships.
Effective treatment for ADHD can aid those who suffer from the condition to be successful in school, work and in family life. Treatments include medication, counseling and lifestyle modifications. Combining these strategies is usually the most effective approach.
Stimulants are the most commonly used treatment for adults suffering from adhd. They regulate and enhance levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, which are believed to be responsible for ADHD symptoms. Other medications, like the nonstimulant atomoxetine and certain antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. These drugs are less potent than stimulants, but they can be more efficient in treating ADHD in those who are unable to use stimulants due to medical conditions or adverse drug effects.
Individual talk therapy can teach people with ADHD how to better manage their emotions as well as improve their interpersonal skills. It can teach strategies for organizing, focus and plan. In addition to individual counseling, couples and family therapy can be beneficial. Marital and family counseling can assist families and partners understand the particular difficulties of living with someone with ADHD and develop coping strategies that enhance communication and problem-solving.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a different kind of treatment for ADHD. This therapy helps people identify and change negative thinking patterns. It can also teach practical strategies for dealing with life's stress like budgeting and financial management and the art of organization, diet changes and exercise. Other methods may include mindfulness meditation to increase mental peace and yoga techniques to improve self-awareness and balance, or relaxation exercises such as deep breathing.
Adding therapy to the medication regimen can be extremely beneficial, particularly for adults. Not everyone with ADHD will benefit from a talk therapy. A doctor must evaluate each individual to determine the most appropriate treatment option. In some instances, it is important to rule out other conditions that can have similar symptoms of ADHD, such as mood disorders or other mental health issues, as well as physical illness or injury or substance abuse, or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Helping someone with ADHD is a difficult task. It is crucial to have a multimodal treatment plan that includes medication, training for skills, and counseling.
In addition to helping you manage your symptoms therapy can also teach you ways to deal with the negative impact of ADHD on your life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, can help you recognize negative emotions and patterns of thinking. This can help you improve your ability control your behavior.
A therapist can teach you how to manage issues like time management, organization and impulse control. They can also help you overcome emotional challenges that often accompany ADHD such as depression or anxiety. Finding adhd treatment adults who can understand the way ADHD affects your life can help you and your loved ones see that your issues aren't due to "laziness" or a lack of effort.
When choosing a therapist look for someone who is trained in treating adult ADHD. Ask your doctor if he/she she specializes in psychotherapy for adult ADHD. You can also check the directory of the American Psychological Association. As psychotherapy can be costly and time-consuming, ensure that your health insurance will cover the cost.
It is also beneficial to find a therapist who has experience with various types of therapy, including natural lifemanship, which employs horses as partners to teach individuals to regulate their body energy and to pick up nonverbal cues. Another option is mindfulness meditation which can help reduce stress and improve attention regulation.
You may also be interested in joining a clinical trial which is 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 are a good candidate for a clinical study.
You should also be sure to rule out any other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation) and thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. You should also disclose any drug abuse you've had in the past or present, as it can affect your ability to concentrate and focus.
Education
A successful treatment plan for adult ADHD involves therapy and medication that includes life skills education and counseling. The same treatments that work for children often be effective for adults, however they might take longer to take effect due to the fact that their brains and bodies have grown. It is also possible to treat psychiatric disorders which mimic ADHD symptoms.
For most people with ADHD, stimulants are the drugs of choice. They increase attention and decrease impulsivity. However, they can cause adverse effects, such as fatigue and sleep problems, which require attention. Also, they can interact with certain drugs and foods. They are most effective when they begin at a lower dosage and gradually increased over the course of 7 days until you reach a dosage that helps manage your ADHD symptoms without causing too many adverse side effects.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you learn techniques to help you deal with your ADHD symptoms. CBT is one example. It can help you to change your distorted thinking that leads to negative behaviors like procrastination. CBT can help you break down large tasks and create an organized routine. Family and marital counseling can aid you and your loved ones to understand and support one another.
A healthy diet can improve your ADHD symptoms as well as overall health. Eat a balanced diet, that includes fish, vitamins such as zinc, iron and magnesium, in addition to complex carbohydrates. It is also essential to eat regularly, at least three meals per 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 poor night's sleep can make symptoms worse the next day. You can improve your sleep quality by establishing a regular bedtime and getting up at the same time each day even on weekends. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol prior to going to bed.
Participating in a clinical study can help you find a better treatment for ADHD. Consult your physician to determine if you qualify for clinical trials.