What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
Most people with ADHD benefit from a mix of treatments. The treatments typically are multimodal and can include treatment, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used treatment for ADHD. Finding the right dosage and balancing side effects can be a tinkering procedure.
Atomoxetine is an anti-stimulant FDA approved has no abuse potential associated with stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
In general, medications are the first option for adults suffering from ADHD. Research has proven that certain medications can help alleviate symptoms and can aid adults in their performance at work, school or home. But, a medication by itself will not be able to solve all ADHD-related issues in a person's life and may cause adverse negative effects. The most effective medication is when it is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and therapy.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can aid adults with ADHD learn new skills to manage behavior. It can aid families and adults learn how to cope with living with someone who has ADHD. Marriage and family therapy can assist people in overcoming the issues that impulsive or inattention-seeking behaviors cause in families and relationships.
Stimulant drugs, like amphetamines and methylphenidate, are the most commonly prescribed drugs for adults with ADHD. They seem to balance the levels of brain chemicals referred to as 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 issues, such as heart disease and high blood pressure, which is why it's important to inform your doctor about any other supplements or medications you take.
Adult ADHD is sometimes treated with nonstimulant medication. Atomoxetine is also referred to as Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that doesn't have the same abuse potential as stimulants. It has a slower onset than stimulants, and it can cause side effects such as stomach upset or difficulty sleeping. However, the majority of adults with ADHD are able to use it effectively. It is not recommended for individuals with depression, bipolar disorder or Tourette's syndrome.
Some people who suffer from ADHD can benefit from other medications such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants. These medications are also used to treat depression and anxiety. However, they may help improve the attention and control of some adults suffering from ADHD.
Being able to sleep enough and maintaining an established routine can help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Avoiding coffee and sweet foods can also make ADHD symptoms worse.
Therapy
Many people with ADHD do not get treated for their disorder. They may not even realize they have it, or their health care providers don't recognize it. They struggle with daily tasks like getting up, going to work on time, and being accountable in relationships and at their jobs.
Effective treatment for ADHD can make it easier for people with the condition to succeed at work, school and in family life. Treatments may include medication, psychotherapy (counseling) and lifestyle changes. Combining these methods is typically the best.
The most common medication used for adults with adhd is stimulants. They improve and regulate levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters which are believed to trigger the symptoms of ADHD. Other medications, like the nonstimulant atomoxetine and certain antidepressants, are also utilized to treat ADHD. These drugs work more slowly than stimulants and may be more effective for people who are unable to take stimulants because of other medical conditions or drug side negative effects.
Individual therapy can help people with ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve relationship skills. It can also teach strategies to organize and concentrate, as well as plan. In addition to individual counseling, couples and family therapy can be beneficial. Marital and family counseling can help families and couples recognize the particular difficulties of living with a person who suffers from ADHD and develop coping strategies that help improve communication and problem-solving.
Other forms of treatment for ADHD could include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps individuals recognize and alter negative patterns of thinking. It can also teach you practical strategies to deal with stress in your life including budgeting, money management, eating habits, organizational skills and exercises. Other therapies can employ meditation to promote mental calmness and yoga techniques to develop self-awareness, balance, and physical balance.
Incorporating therapy into an existing medication regimen could be highly beneficial, especially for adults. However, not everyone with ADHD can benefit from talk therapy alone and a healthcare doctor should evaluate each patient to determine which treatment options are most efficient. In some instances, it's essential to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms similar to ADHD like mental health or mood disorder issues and physical ailments or injuries, substance abuse, or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Getting help for ADHD isn't easy. It's important to seek an intervention plan that is multimodal and includes an array of medications training for skills, counseling.
Therapy can help you manage your symptoms and teach you how to cope with the negative effects of ADHD in your daily life. For instance, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can aid you in recognizing negative patterns of thinking and emotions. This, in turn, can improve your ability to manage your behavior.
A therapist can show you how to manage issues such as time management, organizing and controlling your impulses. dig this can also assist you to overcome emotional challenges that often accompany ADHD such as depression or anxiety. A counselor who is experienced with the impact of ADHD on your life can help your loved ones and you understand that your problems may not be caused by "laziness" or a lack of effort.
Find a therapist who has experience treating adult ADHD. You may be able to ask your physician if they specialize in psychotherapy for adults suffering from ADHD or look up the American Psychological Association's directory. As psychotherapy can be costly, make sure that your health insurance covers the cost.
It's helpful to find a therapist with experience in a variety of therapy. For instance natural lifemanship employs horses to teach people how to manage their energy and pick up non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness meditation, which can help people manage stress and improve attention regulation.
You may also be interested in joining the clinical trial that is a research study. These studies may offer access to the latest treatments, and researchers can learn more about how ADHD is treated or prevented. Ask your doctor if are a suitable candidate for a clinical trial.
It's also important to rule out other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD, such as sleep apnea, depression thyroid disorders, and lead poisoning. It is also important to mention any substance abuse in the past or currently because it could affect your ability to focus and concentrate.
Education
Treatment for adults with ADHD should include medication, therapy and life skills training and counseling. Adults are able to benefit from the same therapies as children, but it might take them longer to be successful because their bodies and minds have matured. Additionally, psychiatric disorders that mimic ADHD symptoms might require treatment as well.
The majority of people suffering from ADHD use stimulants as their drug of choice. These drugs improve attention and reduce impulsivity. They can cause adverse effects like insomnia or fatigue that need to addressed. Also, they can interact with certain drugs and foods. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase it over a period of 7 days to a level where you are able to manage your ADHD symptoms without experiencing too many adverse effects.
You can develop the skills needed to deal with ADHD symptoms through psychotherapy, for example cognitive behavioral therapy. For instance, CBT can encourage you to shift your thinking patterns that cause negative behaviors, such as procrastination. CBT can help you break down big tasks and create a more organized routine. Marriage and family counseling helps you and your loved ones to understand each other and help them.
A healthy diet can help improve your ADHD symptoms as well as your overall health. Eat a balanced diet, which includes fish, nutrients such as zinc, iron and magnesium, in addition to complex carbohydrates. dig this is also important to eat regularly, at least three times a day, and avoid taking a break from meals or eating sweet snacks. A balanced diet will ensure you have steady energy throughout the day, and increase your concentration and mood.
Some people suffering from ADHD struggle to sleep enough. A poor night's sleep can cause more symptoms the following day. You can improve your sleep quality by setting a regular time for bed and waking up at the same time every day even on weekends. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol prior to going to bed.
Participating in a clinical study could help you find a better treatment for ADHD. Ask your doctor if qualify for clinical trials.