What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit from a combination of treatments. These treatments are usually multimodal and can include therapy, medication and lifestyle changes.
The most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD is stimulants. Finding the right dose and balancing the side effects can be a difficult process.
Atomoxetine is an unstimulant FDA approved does not carry the danger of abuse associated with stimulants. It is a pill that can be taken orally.
Medication
Adults with ADHD tend to be treated with medication first. Certain medications can ease symptoms and help adults perform better at school, work or at home. However, medication alone may not solve all the ADHD-related issues in a person's daily life and can sometimes cause side negative effects. Medication is most effective when it's part of a larger treatment plan that includes therapy and lifestyle adjustments.
Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy can help adults with ADHD new skills to manage their behavior. It can aid families and adults learn how to deal with living with someone who has ADHD. Marriage and family therapy helps people cope with the challenges that impulsive, inattentive behavior creates in families and relationships.
Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, are the most commonly prescribed medications for adults suffering from ADHD. They are thought to balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. People with medical conditions or a history of drug and alcohol abuse should speak with their health care provider 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 medication.
Adult ADHD is sometimes treated with nonstimulant drugs. 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 may cause adverse effects, including stomach upset and trouble sleeping however, it is beneficial for the majority of adults with ADHD. It is not recommended for individuals suffering from bipolar disorder, depression or Tourette's disorder.
Certain people suffering from ADHD may also benefit from other medication such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants. These medications are also used to treat anxiety and depression. However, doctors who treat adhd in adults are able to help improve the attention and control of some adults with ADHD.
Getting adequate sleep and following an established schedule can help improve ADHD symptoms. It's also important to avoid caffeine and sugary foods which can make them worse.
Therapy
Many people with ADHD aren't being treated for their disorder. It's possible that they aren't aware they have it, or their doctors don't recognize it. They have difficulty managing everyday tasks like getting up, going to the office on time, and being responsible at work and in their relationships.
Effective treatment for ADHD can aid those who suffer from the condition to excel at work, school and in family life. Treatment options include medication, psychotherapy (counseling) and lifestyle modifications. Combining these methods is often the best choice.
The most commonly used medication for adult adhd is stimulants. They regulate and enhance levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. They are believed to be responsible for ADHD symptoms. ADHD is also treated by other medications, including Atomoxetine which is a nonstimulant and certain antidepressants. These drugs work slower than stimulants, and can be more effective for those who are unable to take stimulants due to other medical issues or drug-related side adverse effects.
Individual therapy can help those with ADHD how to manage their emotions as well as improve their relationship skills. It can also help people learn to organize, plan and concentrate. In addition to individual counseling, couples and family therapy can be beneficial. Marital and family counseling can help partners and families understand the particular difficulties of living with a person who has ADHD and develop coping skills that enhance communication and problem-solving.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is another kind of treatment for ADHD. This therapy helps people identify and modify negative thinking patterns. It also teaches practical strategies to manage life's stresses, such as budgeting and money management, organizational skills, dietary changes and exercise. Other therapies can employ meditation to improve mental peace and yoga practices to improve self-awareness and balance as well as physical balance.
Adding therapy to an existing medication regimen could be extremely beneficial, especially for adults. Not everyone suffering from ADHD will benefit from talking therapy. A doctor must examine each patient to determine the most effective treatment option. In certain instances it is essential to identify other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD like mood disorders or other mental health issues, as well as physical injury or illness or substance abuse, or nutritional deficiency.
Counseling
Finding help for ADHD can be a daunting task. It is essential to choose an effective treatment plan that includes medication, training for skills, and counseling.
In addition to helping you manage your symptoms, therapy can also teach you ways to deal with the negative impact of ADHD on your life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance can help you identify the negative thoughts and emotions. In turn, this will improve your ability to control your behaviors.
A therapist can help you learn how to manage issues such as managing time, organizing and controlling your impulses. They can help you overcome emotional issues that are commonly associated with ADHD like anxiety or depression. A counselor who is experienced with the impact of ADHD on your life can support your loved ones and you realize that your issues may not be caused by "laziness" or a lack of effort.
Find a therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD. Ask your physician if he or she specializes in psychotherapy for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also check the directory of the American Psychological Association. Psychotherapy is expensive so make sure your health insurance will cover it.
It's beneficial to find a therapist who has experience in different types of therapy. For instance the natural lifemanship method uses horses to help people learn to manage their energy and recognize nonverbal signals. Another option is mindfulness meditation, which can help reduce stress and improve their attention control.
You may be interested in joining a clinical trial, which is an investigational study. These studies could provide access to new treatments and researchers can learn more about how ADHD can be treated or prevented. Ask your doctor if are a good candidate for a clinical study.
You should also be sure to rule out any other medical conditions which may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation), thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. It's also worth mentioning any recent or ongoing alcohol or drug abuse, since this could affect your ability to focus and pay attention.
Education
Treatment for adults with ADHD should include therapy, medication and life skills training and counseling. Adults can benefit from the same treatment as children, but it could take longer for them to be successful because their bodies and minds have developed. In addition, psychiatric conditions that mimic ADHD symptoms might require treatment as well.
For the majority of people with ADHD, stimulants are the drugs of choice. They improve attention and reduce impulsiveness. They can cause side effects such as insomnia or fatigue that need to addressed. They can also interact with certain medications as well as food items. They are most effective when they are started at a low dose, and then gradually increased over a period of 7 days until you reach a dose that can manage your ADHD symptoms without causing too many adverse effects.
Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach you strategies to help you manage your ADHD symptoms. CBT can, for instance, can help you overcome your negative thinking patterns that lead to negative behaviors such as procrastination. CBT can also help you understand how to break large tasks into smaller ones and develop a more organized routine. Family and marriage counseling can help you and your loved ones to understand each other and be a part of their.
A healthy diet can improve your ADHD symptoms as well as your overall health. Eat a balanced diet, which includes fish, vitamins like zinc, iron, and magnesium, as well as complex carbohydrates. It is also essential to eat regularly, at least three times a day and avoid having a late lunch or snacking on sugary foods. A balanced diet will help you have steady energy throughout the day and boost your mood and ability to concentrate.
Some people with ADHD are unable to get enough sleep. A sleepless night can make symptoms worse the next day. Set a regular bedtime and wake up at the same time every day. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol prior to going to sleep.
You may be able to discover more effective treatments for your ADHD by taking part in a clinical trial. Ask your doctor if you are eligible for clinical trials.