What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit from a combination of treatments. Those treatments are typically multimodal and may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
The most common treatment for ADHD is stimulants. Finding the right dosage and balancing the side effects can be a difficult process.
Atomoxetine is an anti-stimulant FDA approved, does not have the danger of abuse that is that is associated with stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
The first treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. Certain medications can ease symptoms and help adults function more effectively at school, at work or at home. Medication alone may not solve all ADHD issues and may cause adverse consequences. The most effective treatment is when it is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle adjustments and therapy.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help adults with ADHD learn new skills to manage their behavior. It can also help family members and adults deal with the difficulties of living with someone with ADHD. Family therapy and marriage counseling can help people cope with the challenges that inattention, impulsive behavior can cause in relationships and families.
Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, are the most commonly prescribed medications for adults suffering from ADHD. They are believed to regulate levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Before taking stimulants, those who suffer from medical conditions or who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse should consult their doctor. Stimulants can interact with some common health problems, such as heart disease and high blood pressure, so it's important to inform your doctor about any other supplements or medications you are taking.
Adult ADHD is often treated with nonstimulant medication. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine release that lacks the abuse potential of stimulants. It is slower than stimulants and can have adverse effects, including stomach upset and trouble sleeping however it is highly effective in most adults with ADHD. It is not recommended for people suffering from bipolar disorder, depression or Tourette's syndrome.
Certain people suffering from ADHD may also benefit from other medications that can help, such as mood stabilizers or antidepressants. These medications are also used to treat anxiety and depression. However, they can improve the attention and impulse control of some adults suffering from ADHD.
Sleeping enough and keeping a regular routine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. It's also important to avoid the consumption of sugary drinks and caffeine which can make them worse.
Therapy
Many people with ADHD aren't being treated for their condition. They may not even realize they have it or their health professionals don't recognize it. They have trouble managing everyday tasks like getting up, going to work on time and being accountable in relationships as well as at work.
Effective treatment for ADHD can aid those who suffer from the condition to excel in work, school and in family life. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication (counseling) and lifestyle modifications. Combining these approaches is often the best option.
Stimulants are the most commonly used treatment for adults suffering from adhd. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters that are thought to be responsible for ADHD symptoms. ADHD is also treated with other medications, such as Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant and certain antidepressants. These medications work more slowly than stimulants and may be more effective for those who are unable to take stimulants because of other medical conditions or adverse drug adverse effects.
Individual talk therapy can help those with ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve their interpersonal skills. It can also help people learn to plan, organize and focus. In addition to individual counseling therapy, couples and family therapy can be beneficial. Family and marital counseling can help partners and families understand the unique difficulties of living with someone who suffers from ADHD and develop coping skills that improve communication and problem-solving.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is another type of treatment for ADHD. It helps patients identify and modify negative thinking patterns. It also teaches practical strategies for dealing the stress of life including budgeting, financial management and the art of organization, diet changes and exercise. Other therapies can employ meditation to improve mental peace and yoga practices to improve balance, self-awareness, and physical balance.
The addition of therapy to an existing medication regimen could be extremely beneficial, 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 have similar symptoms similar to ADHD such as mental health disorder or mood issues, as well as physical illnesses or injuries, substance abuse, or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Helping someone suffering from ADHD can be a daunting task. It is important to have a multimodal treatment program that includes medication, training for skills and counseling.
Therapy can assist you in managing your symptoms and help you learn how to deal with the negative effects of ADHD in your life. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in recognizing negative patterns of thinking and emotions. This will help you improve your ability manage your behavior.
A therapist can also provide you with practical strategies for dealing with issues such as time management, organization and impulse control. They can help you overcome emotional issues that are commonly associated with ADHD like anxiety or depression. A therapist who is familiar with the impact of ADHD on your life can support your loved ones as well as realize that your issues may not be due to "laziness" or an inability to work.
When choosing a therapist look for someone who is trained in treating adult ADHD. You may want to ask your doctor whether they are specialized in psychotherapy for adults with ADHD or consult the American Psychological Association's directory. Psychotherapy can be expensive so make sure your health insurance policy covers it.
It is also beneficial to choose a therapist that is familiar with various forms of therapy, including natural lifemanship that uses horses as partners to teach individuals to regulate their body energy and to detect non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness meditation which helps to reduce stress and improve control of attention.
You might be interested in taking part in a clinical study, which is a type of research study. These studies can offer access to new treatments and help researchers discover ways to treat or prevent ADHD. Consult your physician to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a clinical trial.
It is also important to make sure you are free of any other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation) as well as thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. It's also important to mention any recent or ongoing substance abuse, as this could affect your ability to concentrate and pay attention.
Education
A good treatment plan for adults with ADHD involves medication and therapy that includes life skills education and counseling. The same treatments that work for children will generally be effective for adults, however they may take longer to be effective because their brains and bodies have matured. It may also be necessary to treat psychiatric disorders that resemble ADHD symptoms.
The majority of people suffering from ADHD choose stimulants as their primary drug of choice. These help increase attention and decrease impulsivity. They can also cause side effects such as insomnia or fatigue that require attention. They can also interact with some medications and food items. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase it over a period of 7 days until you are able to manage your ADHD symptoms without experiencing too many side effects.
You can learn skills to deal with ADHD symptoms through psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT can, for instance, can help you overcome your distorted thinking that leads to negative behavior, such as procrastination. CBT can also help you understand how to break down large tasks into smaller tasks and create an organized routine. Counseling for families and marriage helps you and your loved ones to be able to communicate and support them.
A healthy diet can improve your ADHD symptoms as well as your overall health. adhd in adults symptoms and treatment balanced diet which includes fish, nutrients such as zinc, iron and magnesium, in addition to complex carbohydrates. Eating three meals daily is important. Avoid taking a break from meals and eating sweet snacks. Eating a well-balanced diet will give you steady energy throughout the day, and increase your mood and ability to concentrate.
Some people suffering from ADHD have difficulty getting enough sleep. A bad night's sleep can worsen symptoms the next day. Set a regular bedtime and get up at the same time each day. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol prior to going to bed.
Participating in a clinical trial could help you find better treatment for ADHD. Consult your physician to determine if you qualify for clinical trials.