What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
Most people with ADHD benefit from a combination of treatments. The treatments typically are multimodal and may include medication, therapy and lifestyle changes.
The most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. Finding the right dose and balancing side effects isn't an easy task.
Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant approved by FDA that doesn't have the abuse potential of stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated first by medication. Research has shown that certain medications help with symptoms and can help adults function better at school, work, or home. However, a single medication may not be able to solve all ADHD-related issues in a person's daily life and may cause adverse negative effects. The most effective medication is when it is part of a complete treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and therapy.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can aid adults with ADHD develop new strategies to manage their behavior. It can also assist family members and adults learn to cope with the difficulties of living with someone who has ADHD. Family therapy and marriage counseling can assist people in overcoming the issues that impulsive and inattentional behaviors can cause in relationships and families.
Stimulant medicines, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, are the most frequently prescribed drugs for adults with ADHD. They appear to balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. Before taking stimulants, those with medical conditions or with a history of drug or alcohol use should consult their physician. The effects of stimulants can be a problem for people with health issues, like high blood pressure and heart disease. Tell your doctor if you're taking any other medication.
Nonstimulant medications are sometimes used to treat adult ADHD. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine-reuptake that doesn't have the same risk of abuse as stimulants. It has a slower effect than stimulants, and can cause side effects, such as stomach upset and trouble sleeping however it is highly effective in most adults with ADHD. It is not recommended for people with Tourette's Syndrome as well as bipolar disorder or depression.
Other medications, including mood stabilizers and antidepressants, can also be helpful for those suffering from ADHD. These drugs are used to treat other mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, but they can also improve concentration and control of impulses in adults who suffer from ADHD.
A good night's sleep and adhering to the same routine can improve ADHD symptoms. Avoiding coffee and sweet foods can make symptoms of ADHD worse.
Therapy
Many people suffering from 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 have difficulty managing everyday tasks like getting up, going to work on time, and remaining accountable at work and in relationships.
Effective treatment for ADHD can help people who suffer from the condition to excel in work, school and in family life. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication (counseling) and lifestyle modifications. A combination of these approaches is typically the best.
Stimulants are the most common treatment for adult adhd. They regulate and enhance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are believed to be the cause of ADHD symptoms. ADHD is also treated by other medications, including atomoxetine, a nonstimulant, and certain antidepressants. These medications work slower than stimulants, and can be more effective for people who have difficulty taking stimulants because of other medical conditions or adverse drug effects.
Individual therapy can help those with ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve relationship skills. It can also teach strategies to organize, focus and plan. Family therapy and couples therapy in addition to individual counseling can be helpful. Marital and family counseling can help partners and families understand the unique challenges of living with a person with ADHD and develop coping strategies that enhance communication and problem-solving.
Other forms of treatment for ADHD can include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps people recognize and modify negative patterns of thinking. adhd in adult women treatment can also teach you strategies for dealing with life's stress like budgeting and financial management, organizational skills, diet changes and exercise. Other therapies may use mindfulness meditation to help promote mental calmness and yoga techniques to develop balance and self-awareness, or relaxation exercises like deep breathing.
It is beneficial to add therapy to an existing medication regimen, especially for adults. Not everyone with ADHD can benefit from talk therapy. A healthcare professional must examine each patient to determine the best treatment option. In some cases it is crucial to exclude other conditions that may cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD such as mood disorders or mental health issues, and physical ailments or injuries, substance abuse, or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Helping someone with ADHD is a difficult task. It is essential to find an approach that is multi-modal and includes a combination of medication, skills training, and counseling.
In addition to helping manage your symptoms Therapy can also teach you strategies to cope with the negative impact of ADHD on your life. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can aid you in recognizing negative patterns of thinking and emotions. This can aid you in improving your ability to manage your behavior.
A therapist can also teach you practical strategies to manage challenges such as time management, organization, and impulse control. They can assist you in overcoming emotional issues that are commonly associated with ADHD like depression or anxiety. A therapist who is aware of the way ADHD affects your life can help you and your loved ones realize that your problems aren't necessarily because of "laziness" or lack of effort.
Find a therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD. Ask your doctor if he or she specializes in psychotherapy for adult ADHD. You can also check the directory of the American Psychological Association. Psychotherapy is expensive, so make sure your health insurance policy covers it.
It's beneficial to find a therapist who has experience in a variety of therapy. For example natural lifemanship employs horses to help people learn to manage their energy and pick up non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness meditation, which helps reduce stress and improves the ability to regulate attention.
You may also be interested in participating in the clinical trial, which is research study. These studies may offer access to new treatments and researchers can discover more about how ADHD can be treated or prevented. Ask your doctor if a clinical study is the right choice for you.
It's also essential to rule out any other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD and include sleep apnea, depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. It's also important to mention any recent or ongoing drug use, as this could affect your ability to focus and pay attention.
Education
Treatment for adult ADHD should consist of therapy, medication as well as life skills training and counseling. Adults are able to benefit from the same therapies as children, however it could take longer for them to achieve their goals because their bodies and minds have grown. Additionally, psychiatric issues that mimic ADHD symptoms may need to be treated as well.
Most people with ADHD use stimulants as their preferred drug. They can increase attention and decrease impulsivity. They can have side effects such as insomnia or fatigue which need to be addressed. They also can interact with some medications and foods. Begin with a low dosage and gradually increase it over the course of 7 days to a level where you are able to manage your ADHD symptoms without experiencing too many adverse effects.
You can acquire the skills necessary to deal with ADHD symptoms through psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy. For example, CBT can encourage you to change your distorted thoughts that cause negative behaviors, such as procrastination. CBT can help you break down big tasks and develop an efficient routine. Marriage and family counseling helps you and your loved one to be able to communicate and support them.
A healthy diet can help improve your ADHD symptoms, as well as your overall health. Try eating a balanced diet that includes fish, the minerals zinc as well as magnesium, iron and complex carbohydrates. It is also important to eat regularly, approximately three times a day and avoid having a late lunch or eating sugary snacks. A healthy diet will give you energy all day long and improve your mood.
Certain people with ADHD are unable to get enough sleep. A poor night's sleep can worsen symptoms the next day. You can improve your sleeping quality by establishing a regular bedtime and getting up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Avoid smoking, caffeine and alcohol prior to going to bed.
Participating in a clinical trial can help you find a better treatment for ADHD. Ask your doctor if you have the ability to participate in clinical trials.