What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
Most people with ADHD benefit from a combination of treatments. The treatment options are typically multimodal, including medication, therapy and lifestyle modifications.
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. Finding the appropriate dosage and balancing the side effects can be a trial-and-error process.
Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant FDA approved does not carry the danger of abuse that is associated with stimulants. It can be taken orally.
Medication
Adults suffering from ADHD tend to be treated first with medication. Research has proven that certain medications improve symptoms and can aid adults in their performance 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 can sometimes cause side consequences. The most effective treatment is when it is part of a complete treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes and treatment.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help adults with ADHD develop new strategies to manage behavior. It can help adults and their families learn how to cope with living with someone with ADHD. Therapy for families and marriage helps people cope with the challenges that inattention and impulsive behavior can cause in relationships and families.
Adult ADHD is usually treated with stimulant medications such as methylphenidate or amphetamines. They appear to balance the levels of brain chemicals that are known as neurotransmitters. People who have medical problems or a history of drug and alcohol use should talk about these issues with their health care provider before taking any stimulants. Stimulants can interact with some common health problems like heart disease and high blood pressure, which is why it's essential to inform your doctor about any other supplements or medications you take.
Nonstimulant medications are sometimes used to treat adult ADHD. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that doesn't have the same potential for abuse as stimulants. It has a slower effect than stimulants, and can cause side effects such as stomach upset or difficulty sleeping. However, the majority of people with ADHD are able to use it effectively. It is not recommended for people with Tourette's Syndrome, depression or bipolar disorder.
Some people with ADHD can benefit from other medications such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants. These drugs are also used to treat anxiety and depression. However, they can enhance the ability to focus and control impulses of some adults with ADHD.
A good night's sleep and adhering to an established schedule can help improve ADHD symptoms. Avoiding caffeine and sugary food can also make ADHD symptoms worse.
Therapy
Many adults with ADHD are not treated for their condition. They may not realize they have it, or their health care providers don't recognize it. They struggle with everyday tasks such as getting up, going to work on time and being accountable in relationships and at their jobs.
Effective treatment for ADHD can aid those with the condition to succeed in school, work and family life. Treatments can include psychotherapy, medication (counseling) and lifestyle modifications. A combination of these approaches is usually best.
Stimulants are the most commonly used treatment for adults suffering from adhd. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which are believed to be responsible for ADHD symptoms. Other medications, like the nonstimulant atomoxetine, and some antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. adhd treatment for adults uk I Am Psychiatry work slower than stimulants, and can be more effective for those who have difficulty taking stimulants because of other medical conditions or drug side adverse effects.
Individual therapy can teach people with ADHD how to better manage their emotions and improve their relationship skills. It can teach strategies for organizing and concentrate, as well as plan. In addition to individual counseling therapy, couples and family therapy can be helpful. Family and marital counseling can help partners and families to understand the unique challenges of living with a person who has ADHD and develop coping skills that enhance communication and problem-solving.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a different type of treatment for ADHD. This therapy helps people identify and change negative thinking patterns. It also teaches you strategies for dealing the stress of life like budgeting and financial management, eating habits, organizational skills and exercises. Other therapies may use mindfulness meditation to promote mindfulness, yoga techniques to cultivate physical balance and self-awareness or relaxation exercises such as deep breathing.
It is beneficial to add therapy to a medication regime, especially for adults. However, not everyone suffers from ADHD can benefit from talk therapy alone and a healthcare doctor should evaluate each patient to see what treatment options are most efficient. In some instances it is crucial to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms of ADHD such as mood disorders or other mental health issues in addition to physical injury or illness or substance abuse, or nutritional deficiency.
Counseling
Getting help for ADHD can be a daunting task. It is essential to find a treatment plan that is multimodal and consists of a combination of medication as well as skills training and counseling.
In addition to helping you manage your symptoms therapy can also teach you ways to manage the negative effects of ADHD on your life. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in recognizing unhelpful thinking patterns and emotions. This will help you improve your ability manage your behavior.
A therapist can also teach you practical strategies to manage problems such as time management, organization, and control of your impulses. They can help you overcome emotional difficulties that are often associated with ADHD such as depression or anxiety. A therapist who is aware of the way ADHD affects your life can help you and loved ones realize that your issues aren't caused by "laziness" or a lack of effort.
When choosing a therapist look for someone who is skilled in treating adults with ADHD. Ask your doctor if he/she is a specialist in psychotherapy for adults with ADHD. You can also look up the directory of the American Psychological Association. Psychotherapy can be expensive and therefore make sure that your health insurance will cover it.
It is helpful to find a therapist with experience in different types of therapy. For example, natural lifemanship uses horses to help people learn to manage their energy levels and detect non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness mediation which helps to reduce stress and improves control of attention.
You might be interested in participating in a clinical study which is a type of research study. These studies can offer access to new treatments and aid researchers to gain knowledge about ways to prevent or treat ADHD. Ask your doctor if a clinical study is appropriate for you.
You should also make sure you are free of any other medical conditions which may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation), thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. It is also important to mention any substance abuse in the past or in the present since it can impact your ability to concentrate and focus.
Education
Treatment for adults with ADHD should include medication, therapy, life skills training, and counseling. Adults are able to benefit from the same treatments as children, however it may take longer for them to work because their bodies and minds have grown. It may also be necessary to treat psychiatric disorders that mimic ADHD symptoms.
For the majority of people suffering from ADHD, stimulants are the drugs of choice. These medications increase attention and decrease impulsivity. They can have negative effects, such as fatigue or sleep issues which need to be addressed. Additionally, they may interact with certain medications and foods. Begin with a low dosage, and increase it over a period of 7 days until you reach a point where you can manage your ADHD symptoms without experiencing too many side effects.
Psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you develop skills to help you deal with your ADHD symptoms. CBT can, for instance, can help you to change your distorted thinking that leads to negative behaviors like procrastination. CBT can also help you understand how to break down large tasks into smaller ones and establish an organized routine. Counseling for families and marriage helps you and your loved ones to get to know each other better and help them.
A healthy diet can improve your ADHD symptoms as well as your overall health. Eat a balanced diet, which includes fish, vitamins such as zinc, iron and magnesium, as well as complex carbohydrates. It is also essential to eat regularly, approximately three meals a day and avoid skipping meals or snacking on sugary foods. A balanced diet will give you energy all day long and improve your mood.
Some people suffering from ADHD have difficulty getting enough sleep. A bad night's sleep can worsen symptoms the next day. You can improve your sleeping quality by establishing a regular bedtime and waking up at the same time each day even on weekends. Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol prior to going to sleep.
Participating in a clinical trial could help you find a better treatment for ADHD. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials and if you qualify for.