What is the Best Treatment For ADHD in Adults?
The majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit from a mix of treatments. The treatments typically are multimodal and include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. Finding the right dose and balancing side effects isn't an easy task.
Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant FDA approved, does not have the abuse potential that can be associated with stimulants. It can be consumed orally.
Medication
Adults with ADHD tend to be treated with medication first. Certain medications can ease symptoms and help adults function more effectively at school, work or at home. But, a medication by itself will not solve all the ADHD-related issues in a person's daily life and can cause some side negative effects. The most effective medication is when it is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle changes and treatment.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help adults with ADHD develop new strategies to manage their behavior. It can aid 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 or inattention-seeking behaviors cause in relationships and families.
Adult ADHD is typically treated with stimulant medications like amphetamines and methylphenidate. They appear to balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. People who have medical issues or an history of drug or alcohol use should talk about these issues with their health care provider prior to taking any stimulants. The effects of stimulants can be a problem for people with health issues, like high blood pressure and heart disease. Inform your doctor if you're taking any other medications.
Adult ADHD is often treated with nonstimulant medications. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine-reuptake 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 and insomnia however it is highly effective for most adults suffering from ADHD. It is not recommended for people suffering from Tourette's syndrome as well as bipolar disorder or depression.
Certain people suffering from ADHD may benefit from other medications, including mood stabilizers and antidepressants. These medications are also used to treat depression and anxiety. However, they are able to improve the attention and impulse control of some adults with ADHD.
A good night's sleep and adhering to an established schedule can help increase the severity of ADHD symptoms. Avoiding caffeine and sugary food can also make ADHD symptoms worse.
Therapy
Many adults with ADHD don't receive treatment for their disorder. It's possible that they aren't aware they have it, or their doctors don't know about it. They may have trouble completing everyday tasks like getting up, going to work on time, and remaining accountable at work and with friends.
Effective treatment for ADHD can make it easier for people who suffer from the condition to excel in school, work and in family life. Treatments include medication, counseling and lifestyle changes. treat adhd without medication adults of these approaches is typically the best.
The most common medication used to treat adult adhd is stimulants. They regulate and enhance levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters that are thought to be the cause of ADHD symptoms. Other medications, such as the nonstimulant atomoxetine, and some antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. These medications work more slowly than stimulants and may be more effective for those who aren't able to take stimulants due to medical issues or drug-related side negative effects.
Individual talk therapy can teach those with ADHD how to better manage their emotions as well as improve their relationship skills. It can also teach strategies to organize and concentrate, as well as plan. Couples and family therapy, in addition to individual counseling, can be beneficial. Family and marital counseling can help families and couples understand the unique difficulties of living with a person with ADHD and develop coping strategies that enhance communication and problem-solving.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is another kind of treatment for ADHD. This therapy helps people recognize and alter negative thinking patterns. It can also teach you strategies for dealing with life's stress like budgeting and money management, eating habits, organizational skills and exercises. Other treatments may employ mindfulness meditation to increase mindfulness and yoga techniques to develop self-awareness and balance, or relaxation techniques such as deep breathing.
It can be beneficial to add therapy to a medication regime, especially for adults. However, not all people suffers from ADHD can benefit from just talk therapy and a healthcare doctor should evaluate each patient to see what treatment options are most efficient. In some instances, it's important to exclude other conditions that may have similar symptoms to ADHD like mental health or mood disorder problems as well as physical illnesses or injuries, substance abuse, or nutritional deficiencies.
Counseling
Helping someone suffering from ADHD can be a daunting task. It is crucial to find a treatment plan that is multi-modal and includes an array of medications as well as skills training and counseling.
In addition to helping manage your symptoms therapy can also teach you ways to manage the negative impact of ADHD on your life. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you learn to recognize negative patterns of thinking and emotions. This, in turn, will help you better control your behaviors.
A Therapist can also teach you practical strategies for dealing with challenges like time management, organization and impulse control. They can assist you in overcoming emotional problems that are typically associated with ADHD such as anxiety or depression. Having a therapist who understands the way ADHD affects your life can help you and your loved ones realize that your problems aren't necessarily due to "laziness" or lack of effort.
When selecting a therapist, seek out a therapist who is experienced in treating adults with ADHD. Ask your physician if he or has a specialization in psychotherapy for adult ADHD. You can also check the directory of the American Psychological Association. Psychotherapy can be costly and therefore make sure that your health insurance will cover it.
It's also helpful to find a therapist who has experience with various types of therapy, including natural lifemanship, which uses horses as partners to help people to control their body's energy and recognize non-verbal signals. Another option is mindfulness mediation which can help reduce stress and improves attention regulation.
You might be interested in taking part in a clinical research study, which is a type research study. These studies may provide access to new treatments and researchers can gain knowledge about how ADHD can be treated or prevented. Ask your doctor if are a good candidate for a clinical trial.
It is also important to rule out any other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These include sleep apnea (sleep deprivation) as well as thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. It's also important to note any current or past alcohol or drug abuse, since this can interfere with your ability to concentrate and pay attention.
Education
Treatment for adult ADHD should include medication, therapy as well as life skills training and counseling. The same methods that work for children will typically be effective for adults, however they might take longer to begin working due to the fact that their brains and bodies have gotten older. It is also possible to treat psychiatric disorders which mimic ADHD symptoms.
For the majority of people with ADHD stimulants are the drugs of choice. They improve attention and reduce impulsiveness. They can have side effects such as fatigue or sleep problems that require attention. They can also interact with certain foods and medications. Stimulants work best when they are started at a low dosage and gradually increased over 7 days until you reach a dose that helps manage your ADHD symptoms without causing too many adverse effects.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you learn skills to help you deal with your ADHD symptoms. For instance, CBT can encourage you to alter your thoughts that cause negative behaviors, such as procrastination. CBT can help you break down large tasks and help you develop a more structured routine. Family and marriage counseling can help you and your loved ones to understand and support one another.
A healthy diet can help improve your ADHD symptoms as well as your overall health. Make sure you eat an energizing diet that contains fish, the nutrients zinc iron, magnesium and iron, and complex carbohydrates. It is also essential to eat regularly, at least three times a day, and avoid taking a break from meals or snacking on sugary foods. A balanced diet will give you constant energy throughout the day, and increase your concentration and mood.
Some people with ADHD struggle to get enough sleep. A poor night's sleep can worsen symptoms the next day. Set a regular bedtime, and get up at the same time each day. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol before the bed.
You might be able to discover more effective treatments for your ADHD by participating in clinical trials. Ask your doctor if you qualify for clinical trials.