What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from a combination treatment. Those treatments are typically multimodal and may include therapy, medication and lifestyle changes.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used treatment for ADHD. Finding the right dosage and balancing side effects isn't an easy task.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved non-stimulant that is not a stimulant and does not carry the abuse potential of stimulants. It can be taken orally.
Medication
Adults with ADHD are typically treated first by medication. Studies have shown that certain medications improve symptoms and can aid adults in their performance at work, school or home. Medication alone may not solve all ADHD issues and may cause negative side consequences. The most effective treatment is when it is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and treatment.
Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach adults with ADHD new skills to manage their behavior. It can also assist adults and their family members learn to cope with the difficulties of living with someone who has ADHD. Family therapy and marriage counseling can help people cope with the challenges that impulsive, inattentive behavior can cause in relationships and families.
Adult ADHD is typically treated with stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate or amphetamines. They are believed to balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. People who have medical problems or those who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse should discuss these issues with their physician before taking any stimulants. The effects of stimulants can be a problem for people with health conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Tell your doctor if you're taking any other medications.
Adult ADHD is sometimes treated with nonstimulant medications. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine release that is not able to abuse the effects of stimulants. It is slower acting than stimulants, and can cause side effects such as stomach upset and difficulty sleeping. However, most people with ADHD are able to use it effectively. It is not recommended for those suffering from Tourette's Syndrome as well as bipolar disorder or depression.
Some people who suffer from ADHD can also benefit from other medications, including mood stabilizers and antidepressants. These drugs are also used to treat depression and anxiety. However, they are able to improve the attention and impulse control of some adults suffering from ADHD.
A good night's sleep and adhering to a regular schedule can improve ADHD symptoms. It is also important to stay away from the consumption of sugary drinks and caffeine, which can make them worse.
Therapy
Many adults with ADHD aren't being treated for their disorder. They may not be aware that they have it or their health care providers aren't aware of it. They have trouble managing everyday tasks like getting up, going to work on time, and being responsible in relationships and at their jobs.
ADHD can be treated effectively to aid people in achieving success at school, work and in their daily lives. Treatments may include medication, psychotherapy (counseling) and lifestyle changes. Combining these strategies is usually the best option.
Stimulants are among the most popular treatment for adult adhd. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which are believed to be the reason for ADHD symptoms. Other medications, like the nonstimulant atomoxetine and certain antidepressants, are also utilized to treat ADHD. These drugs are less potent than stimulants, but they can be more effective in treating ADHD for those who are unable to take stimulants due to medical conditions or drug side-effects.
Individual therapy can help people with ADHD learn to manage their emotions and improve their relationship skills. It can also help people learn to plan, organize and stay focused. Couples and family therapy along with individual counseling can be helpful. Counseling for families and marriage can help partners and families understand the particular difficulties of living with someone with ADHD and develop coping skills that improve communication and problem-solving.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a different kind of treatment for ADHD. This helps people recognize and alter negative thinking patterns. It also teaches practical strategies to manage stress in life, like money management and budgeting, organizational skills, dietary changes and exercise. Other treatments may employ meditation to help promote calm and yoga practices to improve balance, self-awareness, and physical balance.
It can be beneficial to add therapy to the medication regimen, particularly for adults. However, not everyone suffers from ADHD can benefit from a single therapy session and a healthcare provider should evaluate each person to see what treatments are most effective. In some cases it is essential to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD like mood disorders or mental health issues, as well as physical illnesses or injuries, drug abuse or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Getting help for ADHD can be a daunting task. It is crucial to find an effective treatment plan that includes medication, training for skills and counseling.
Therapy can help you manage your symptoms and help you learn how to manage the negative effects of ADHD in your life. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you learn to recognize unhelpful thinking patterns and emotions. This will help you better control your behaviors.
A therapist can also provide you with practical strategies for dealing with problems like time management, organization, and impulse control. They can also help you overcome emotional challenges that can be a result of ADHD, such as 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 recognize that your issues might not be due to "laziness" or lack of effort.
Find a therapist that has experience treating adult ADHD. Ask your doctor if he or is a specialist in psychotherapy for adults suffering from ADHD. You may also consult the directory of the American Psychological Association. Since psychotherapy can be expensive, make sure that your health insurance covers the cost.
It's also helpful to find a therapist who has experience with various types of therapy, including natural lifemanship that uses horses as partners to help individuals to regulate their body's energy and detect non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness meditation, which helps reduce stress and improves attention regulation.
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 aid researchers to discover ways to treat or prevent ADHD. 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 which could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation), depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. It's also important to mention any recent or ongoing substance abuse, as this can interfere with your ability to concentrate and pay attention.
Education
A good treatment plan for adults with ADHD involves medication and therapy which includes life skills training and counseling. Adults are able to benefit from the same treatment as children, but it could take them longer to achieve their goals because their bodies and minds have developed. Additionally, psychiatric issues that mimic ADHD symptoms may need to be treated as well.
For most people with ADHD, stimulants are the medication of choice. These medications increase attention and decrease the impulsiveness. They can also cause negative effects, such as fatigue or sleep issues that require attention. They also can interact with certain medications and foods. The best results are when stimulants start at a low dose, and then gradually increased over a period of 7 days until you reach a dosage that helps manage your ADHD symptoms without causing too many side effects.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you develop skills to help you manage your ADHD symptoms. CBT can, for instance, can help you change your distorted thinking that leads to negative behaviors like procrastination. CBT can also help you understand how to break large tasks into smaller tasks and create a more structured routine. Marital and family counseling can aid you and your loved ones to understand and help each other.
A healthy diet can improve your ADHD symptoms, and also improve your overall health. A balanced diet which includes fish, vitamins such as zinc, iron and magnesium, in addition to complex carbohydrates. Consuming three meals a day is important. Avoid taking a break from meals and eating sweet snacks. adhd treatment for adult women balanced diet will ensure you have an energy level that is constant throughout the day and improve your mood and ability to focus.
Some people suffering from ADHD struggle to sleep enough. A bad night's sleep can make symptoms worse the next day. You can improve your sleep quality by setting a regular time for bed and getting up at the same time every day even on weekends. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol prior to going to sleep.
You may be able to find better treatments for your ADHD by participating in clinical trials. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials and if you qualify for.