What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people with ADHD will benefit from combination treatment. These treatments are typically multi-modal, encompassing medication, therapy and lifestyle changes.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used treatment for ADHD. Finding the right dosage and balancing the side effects can be a challenge.
Atomoxetine is a FDA-approved non-stimulant that doesn't have the potential for abuse of stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
The first option for adults suffering from ADHD. Certain medications can improve symptoms and help adults perform better at work, school or at home. The use of medication alone isn't enough to solve all ADHD issues and may cause adverse consequences. The most effective treatment is when it is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes and therapy.
Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach adults with ADHD new skills to manage their behavior. It can also assist family members and adults to deal with the difficulties of living with someone who has ADHD. Therapy for families and marriage can help people cope with the problems that impulsive and inattention-seeking behaviors cause in relationships and families.
Stimulant medications, such as amphetamines and methylphenidate, are the most frequently prescribed medications for adults suffering from ADHD. They appear to balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Before taking stimulants, those who suffer from medical conditions or who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse should speak with their doctor. Stimulants can interact with some common health problems like heart disease and high blood pressure. It's essential to inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you take.
Nonstimulant medicines are often used to treat adult ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process that lacks the abuse potential of stimulants. It has a slower effect than stimulants, and it can cause side effects like stomach upset or difficulty sleeping. However, most adults with ADHD are able to use it effectively. It is not recommended for people with depression, bipolar disorder or Tourette's disorder.
Other medications, such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants can also be helpful for certain people suffering from ADHD. These drugs are also used to treat depression and anxiety. However, they can improve the ability to focus and control impulses of some adults suffering from ADHD.
Being able to sleep enough and maintaining a regular routine can help improve ADHD symptoms. Avoiding sugary and caffeine-rich foods can make symptoms of ADHD worse.
Therapy
Many people with ADHD do not get treated for their condition. They may not be aware that they have it, or their health care providers don't recognize it. They are having difficulty with everyday tasks like getting up, going to work on time, and being accountable in their relationships as well as at work.
Effective treatment for ADHD can aid those who suffer from the condition to be successful in school, work and in family life. Treatments include counseling, medication and lifestyle adjustments. Combining these strategies is usually the most effective approach.
The most common medication used for adults with adhd is stimulants. They increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters that are believed to be responsible for the symptoms of ADHD. Other medications, like the nonstimulant atomoxetine and certain antidepressants, are also used to treat ADHD. These medications work slower than stimulants, and can be more effective for those who are unable to take stimulants due to medical conditions or drug side adverse effects.
Individual therapy can help those suffering from ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve their interpersonal skills. It can also teach people how to organize, plan and concentrate. Couples and family therapy along with individual counseling can be helpful. Counseling for families and marriage can help families and couples to understand the particular challenges of living with a person who suffers from ADHD and develop coping skills that enhance communication and problem-solving.
Other forms of treatment for ADHD may include cognitive behavior therapy, which assists people recognize and alter negative patterns of thinking. It can also teach you practical strategies to deal the stress of life including budgeting, managing money, the art of organization, diet changes and exercise. Other therapies may use mindfulness meditation to increase mental calmness and yoga techniques to develop self-awareness and balance, or relaxation exercises such as deep breathing.
Adding therapy to an existing medication regimen could be highly beneficial, especially for adults. However, psychological treatment for adhd in adults with ADHD can benefit from a single therapy session and a health care doctor should evaluate each patient to see what treatments are most efficient. In some instances, it is important to identify other conditions that can have similar symptoms to ADHD like mood disorders or other mental health problems, as well as physical injuries or illness, substance abuse or nutritional deficiency.
Counseling
Helping someone suffering from ADHD can be a daunting task. It is crucial to choose a multimodal treatment plan that includes medication, training for skills, and counseling.
In addition to helping you manage your symptoms therapy can also teach you strategies to deal with the negative impact of ADHD on your daily life. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you learn to recognize unhelpful thinking patterns and emotions. This can aid you in improving your ability to manage your behavior.
A Therapist can also teach you practical strategies to manage problems like time management, organization and control of your impulses. They can help you overcome emotional problems that are typically associated with ADHD like depression or anxiety. A counselor who is experienced with the effects of ADHD on your life can support your loved ones and recognize that your issues might not be caused by "laziness" or a lack of effort.
Find a therapist that has experience in treating adults with ADHD. You may consider asking your doctor if they specialize in psychotherapy for adults with ADHD or consult the American Psychological Association's directory. Psychotherapy is expensive, so make sure your health insurance will cover it.
It's also beneficial to find a therapist who is experienced with different types of therapy, such as natural lifemanship, which employs horses as partners to teach individuals to regulate their body energy and to detect non-verbal signals. Another alternative is mindfulness meditation, which can help people manage anxiety and improve attention control.
You may also be interested in participating in the clinical trial that is an investigational study. These studies may offer access to new treatments, and researchers can discover more about how ADHD is treated or prevented. Consult your physician to determine if you are a good candidate for a clinical study.
It is also important to be sure to rule out any other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation), thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. It's also important to mention any current or past alcohol or drug abuse, since this can interfere with your ability to focus and pay attention.
Education
Treatment for adult ADHD should include medication, therapy and life skills training and counseling. The same treatments that work for kids will generally be effective for adults, however they might take longer to take effect because their brains and bodies have grown. In addition, psychiatric conditions that resemble ADHD symptoms could need to be treated also.
For the majority of people suffering from ADHD, stimulants are the drug of choice. They can improve attention and reduce impulsiveness. They can cause side effects such as insomnia or fatigue that require attention. Also, they can interact with certain drugs and foods. Start with a lower dose, and increase it over a period of 7 days to a level where you are able to manage your ADHD symptoms without experiencing too many side effects.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you develop strategies to help you manage your ADHD symptoms. CBT is one example. It can help you change your distorted thinking that leads to negative behaviors like procrastination. CBT can also assist you in learning to break down large tasks into smaller tasks and create a more structured routine. Marital and family counseling can help you and your loved ones get to know and help each other.
A healthy diet can help improve your ADHD symptoms, as well as your overall health. Try eating an energizing diet that contains fish, the vitamins zinc, iron and magnesium, and complex carbohydrates. Consuming three meals a day is essential. Avoid cutting out meals or eating sweet snacks. A well-balanced diet will ensure you have constant energy throughout the day, and increase your mood and ability to concentrate.
Some people suffering from ADHD are unable to get enough sleep. A poor night's sleep can cause symptoms to worsen the next day. You can improve your sleep by establishing a regular bedtime and getting up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol prior to going to sleep.
Participating in a clinical trial can help you find a better treatment for ADHD. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials and whether you are eligible for.