ADHD in Adults Treatment
ADHD is associated with significant impairments in academic achievement and social functioning. Adults with ADHD are more at risk of developing depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse.
The medications that improve ADHD symptoms by increasing neurotransmitters responsible for controlling attention and impulsivity seem to be working. Trials of medication are conducted to determine which medications are most effective and in what dosages.
Medication
The use of acute treatments, such as medication, can help to improve ADHD symptoms in adults. The most effective way to improve ADHD symptoms is to alter neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine. They work by increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters on presynaptic transportation systems and reducing their reuptake, which prevents their breakdown. The doctors are not able to predict which medications will be most effective for a specific person, so most adults undergo an initial trial of a medication. This begins with a low dose, which is gradually increasing over 3-7 days until the clinical benefits are obtained.
A popular type of psychostimulant used to treat ADHD is methylphenidate. It's available as a tablet, liquid, or extended-release (Concerta). Extended release is the most dependable because it isn't crushed and used for other purposes, like to get high. Adults who abuse stimulant medication can suffer serious health problems. Anyone with a history alcohol or drug abuse should speak with an expert in mental health regarding the use of psychostimulants.
Stimulants can trigger mood swings and sleep disturbances. If these effects are present it is possible that the patient needs to alter the medication or to stop taking it. Stimulants may also be contraindicated for those with the history of having Tourette's disease, severe aorexia, certain mental conditions like schizoaffective disorder and antisocial personality disorders or for certain medical conditions, such as high blood-pressure or heart disease.
Mood stabilizers like bupropion, (Wellbutrin XL), may boost mood and reduce the level of hyperactivity and impulsivity in some adults with ADHD. They work by preventing the reuptake process of norepinephrine by the presynaptic transporter, allowing more of the substance to reach the brain. They are able to be used with other ADHD medication or on their own.
Adults suffering from ADHD typically suffer from co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can be treated with psychotherapy or non-medication treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. This treatment teaches patients to manage their symptoms and improve their self-esteem, functioning and relationships. Some therapists have special training in treating adult ADHD.
Counseling
Counseling, a form of psychotherapy, is a crucial element of adhd treatment for adults. Talk therapy can help you manage your anxiety and stress, enhance your relationships, and help you deal with your emotions. It can also teach you strategies to improve your self-control and reduce your impulsive behavior. Counseling can take place in person or via phone.
Counseling may include cognitive behavioral therapy. It teaches you to recognize and alter negative thoughts and behaviors that can cause ADHD symptoms. It may also include family or marital therapy, which can assist loved ones deal with their emotions and find ways to support your success. Lifestyle coaching may be added in the training to manage ADHD.
Adults with ADHD frequently have trouble getting up in the morning and going through the day without feeling exhausted or irritable. A therapist could suggest a sleeping routine that includes a regular bedtime and a wake-up time every day. It is important to get enough rest in order that your body functions optimally.
Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty completing tasks and staying on the right track at work, school and in their personal lives. The reasons for this are usually due to long-standing patterns of failure and underachievement, academic difficulties as well as job changes and relationships that are not working. Individual talk therapy can help deal with emotional issues like low self esteem, feelings of shame and embarrassment from past mistakes and resentment toward criticism, as well as the constant nagging of those close to them.
Behavioral coaching is a type of therapy for adults suffering from ADHD that focuses on practical daily living strategies, like organizing your home and office and arranging your day, prioritizing your tasks, and managing your money. This therapy is usually available in person or via the internet, and aims at teaching you strategies to improve your life with ADHD.
Adults with ADHD are more likely to have co-occurring disorders than those with other disorders of the psyche, and it is crucial to treat these conditions as well. In certain cases, a combination between treatments and medications can result in the best results. A therapist can help you learn how to control your anxiety and mood with mindfulness-based interventions, such as yoga and meditation, and deal with comorbid conditions like addiction and depression.
Therapy
Many psychiatric disorders can mimic ADHD symptoms. Therefore, a thorough assessment is required to determine the root of these symptoms. This evaluation can include a thorough review of the patient's medical history, psychological testing and a detailed analysis of their behavior. The evaluation will include a review of the person's family history.
Psychotherapy is a key part of treatment for adhd in adults. It helps people deal with the emotional stress and frustrations that result from their inability to perform at a level that is in line with their own expectations. It can also assist them to create strategies to cope and improve their relationships with family members. Behavioral therapy can help patients to focus on tasks and break big projects into small steps that are more manageable. It can help them manage impulsive behavior and gain confidence.
Marriage and family counseling helps couples to understand the challenges ADHD can cause in their relationship. treating adhd in adults are also able to discuss issues that arise in their families or marriages in a constructive manner, rather than blaming each other. Individual psychotherapy can help people explore the root causes behind their troubles, such as feelings of guilt or sadness. It can also assist people to create healthy strategies for coping that include exercises or meditation.
A few adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with a calming drug, such as Clonidine. This is a 2 adrenergic antagonist. It is especially helpful for those with Tourette's Syndrome or other tic disorders. It is typically prescribed as a second line treatment after nonstimulant drugs were tried but proved to not be effective.
Clinical trials are research studies which examine the safety and efficacy of new treatments and diseases. They are a crucial component of treatment for adhd for adults and offer the chance to participate in cutting-edge research which could lead to improved treatment in the near future. Before taking part in any clinical trial, participants should talk to their physician. The health care professional can provide the current list of clinical trials available to the patient.
Nutrition
Adults suffering from ADHD might find that their diet has a significant impact on how they feel and function. A healthy, balanced diet can help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve focus. Avoiding junk food and sodas can help reduce or eliminate ADHD symptoms. Adults with ADHD should take regular meals and snacks as well as drinks to keep their blood sugar levels constant throughout the day. This can improve their mood, energy, and sleep quality.
It is important to evaluate people suffering from ADHD symptoms to make sure they are not caused by another medical condition. In addition, many medical issues can also trigger ADHD-like symptoms, including thyroid disorders and lead poisoning hearing and vision issues, depression and anxiety, a history of alcohol or drug abuse, and certain medications.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults is more difficult than in children. A diagnosis requires a thorough history of childhood symptoms in line with ADHD and an evaluation of functional impairment. Many adults do not have a distinct childhood ADHD history, or might not have a parent or older sibling who can confirm their symptoms. Someone who is abusing drugs or alcohol may not be a good candidate for treatment with psychostimulants, and their doctor should consider this when deciding whether or not to prescribe these drugs.
There are many FDA-approved medications that can be used to treat adult ADHD such as stimulants and nonstimulant drugs. Stimulants are effective in the reduction of ADHD symptoms however they must be used responsibly and people with the disorder should be checked regularly for side effects. The medications are available in long-acting forms that can be taken two or three times per day by adults with ADHD. These preparations come in chewable, tablet, or liquid form and can be taken with food or without.