What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit from a combination of treatments. non medication treatment for adhd adults are typically multi-modal, encompassing therapy, medication and lifestyle modifications.
Stimulants are the most popular medications for ADHD. Finding the right dose and balancing the side effects can be a difficult process.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved non-stimulant that is not a stimulant and does not carry the potential for abuse of stimulants. It can be taken via mouth.
Medication
Adults with ADHD are typically treated with medication first. Certain medications can improve symptoms and allow adults to 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 life and can sometimes cause side negative effects. Medication is most effective when it's part of an overall treatment program that includes therapy and lifestyle modifications.
Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach adults who suffer from ADHD new skills to manage their behavior. It can assist families and adults learn to manage living with someone who has ADHD. Family therapy and marriage counseling can help people deal with the issues that impulsive, inattentive behavior causes in families and relationships.
Stimulant medicines, such as 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. Patients with medical problems or an history of drug or alcohol use should talk about these issues with their doctor prior to taking any stimulants. The effects of stimulants can be a factor in common health issues, such as heart disease and high blood pressure, which is why it's important to inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you take.
Adult ADHD is sometimes treated with nonstimulant medication. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine-reuptake that doesn't have the same abuse potential as stimulants. It has a slower effect than stimulants, and it may cause adverse effects such as stomach upset and difficulty sleeping. However, most adults with ADHD find it to be effective. It is not recommended for people suffering from Tourette's syndrome or bipolar disorder, depression, or both.
Other medications, including antidepressants and mood stabilizers, can also be helpful for those suffering from ADHD. These medications are used to treat other mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, however they can help improve concentration and control of impulses in some adults with ADHD.
Getting adequate sleep and following a regular schedule can improve ADHD symptoms. It's also important to stay clear of sweet and caffeine-rich foods that can make symptoms worse.
Therapy
Many people suffering from ADHD aren't treated for their disorder. It's possible that they don't know they have it or their doctors aren't aware of it. They have trouble managing everyday tasks like getting up, getting 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 in school, work and in family life. Treatments can include medication, psychotherapy (counseling) and lifestyle modifications. A combination of these approaches is usually best.
The most common medication used for adults with adhd is stimulants. They regulate and enhance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which are believed to be responsible for ADHD symptoms. ADHD is also treated with other medications, such as Atomoxetine which is a nonstimulant and certain antidepressants. These medications work slower than stimulants, and can be more effective for those who have difficulty taking stimulants because of other medical conditions or drug side negative effects.
Individual talk therapy can help people with ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve their interpersonal skills. It can also help people learn to organize, plan and concentrate. In addition to individual counseling therapy, couples and family therapy can be helpful. Counseling for families and marriage can help partners and families to understand the particular challenges of living with a person who suffers from ADHD and develop coping strategies that enhance communication and problem-solving.
Other types of treatment for ADHD could include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps people identify and change negative patterns of thinking. It can also teach practical methods to manage stress in life, like budgeting and money management and organizational skills, as well as dietary changes and exercise. Other methods may include mindfulness meditation to help promote mindfulness and yoga techniques to develop self-awareness and balance, or relaxation exercises like deep breathing.
It can be beneficial to include therapy into an existing medication regimen, especially for adults. However, not all people with ADHD can benefit from talk therapy alone, and a health care provider should evaluate each person to determine which treatments are most efficient. In some cases it is crucial to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms of ADHD like mood disorders or other mental health issues and physical injury or illness as well as substance abuse or nutritional deficiency.
Counseling
Finding assistance for ADHD can be a daunting task. It is essential to find an intervention plan 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 ways to deal with the negative effects of ADHD on your life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance, can help you recognize the negative thoughts and emotions. This will aid you in improving your ability to manage your behavior.
A therapist can teach you how to manage issues like time management, organization and impulse control. They can help you overcome emotional issues that are commonly associated with ADHD, such anxiety or depression. A professional who is knowledgeable about the impact of ADHD on your life can assist you and your loved ones as well as understand that your problems may not be caused by "laziness" or an inability to work.
Look for a therapist who is experienced in treating adult ADHD. Ask your doctor if he/she has a specialization in psychotherapy for adult ADHD. You can also look up the directory of the American Psychological Association. Psychotherapy can be costly so make sure your health insurance will cover it.
It's helpful to find a therapist who has experience in a variety of therapy. For instance natural lifemanship employs horses to teach people to manage their energy and recognize non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness meditation which can help people manage anxiety and improve attention control.
You might be interested in taking part in a clinical study, which is a type research study. These studies could offer access to new treatments and researchers can learn more about how ADHD can be treated or prevented. Consult your physician to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a clinical study.
It's also crucial to rule out any other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD like sleep apnea and depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. It's also important to mention any recent or ongoing drug use, as it can affect your ability to focus and pay attention.
Education
A successful treatment plan for adult ADHD includes therapy and medication which includes life skills training and counseling. The same treatments that work for children will typically work for adults, but they might take longer to begin working because their bodies and brains have matured. It could also be necessary to treat psychiatric disorders that resemble ADHD symptoms.
The majority of people suffering from ADHD opt for stimulants as their preferred drug. They increase attention and decrease the impulsiveness. However, they can cause adverse effects, such as sleep and fatigue, which require attention. They also can interact with certain medications as well as foods. The best results are when stimulants are started at a low dose, and then gradually increased over the course of 7 days until you reach a dosage that can manage your ADHD symptoms without too many side effects.
Psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you learn techniques to help you deal with your ADHD symptoms. For example, CBT can encourage you to alter your thoughts that lead to negative behaviors like procrastination. CBT can also assist you in learning to break large tasks into smaller ones and develop an organized routine. Family and marital counseling can help you and your loved ones understand and support each other.
A healthy diet can improve your ADHD symptoms, and also improve your overall health. Try to eat healthy, balanced meals that include fish, the vitamins zinc as well as magnesium, iron and complex carbohydrates. Consuming three meals a day is essential. Avoid taking a break from meals and eating sweet snacks. A balanced diet will give you energy throughout the day and boost your mood.
Some people with ADHD struggle to sleep enough. A sleepless night can cause symptoms to worsen the next day. Establish a regular time for bed, and rise at the same time every day. Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol before going to bed.
Participating in a clinical study could help you find better treatment for ADHD. Discuss with your doctor about clinical trials and whether you are eligible for.