ADHD in Adults Treatment
ADHD is associated with significant impairments of academic performance and social functioning. Adults with ADHD are at higher risk of developing anxiety disorders, depression, and abuse of substances.
The use of medications to treat core ADHD symptoms are believed to work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters that control the ability to focus and impulsivity. Trials of medication are conducted to determine which drugs are most effective and in what dosages.
Medication
Acute treatments such as medication can help to improve ADHD symptoms in adults. The most effective method to reduce 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 to avoid their breakdown. Practitioners cannot know in advance what medication is most effective for a particular person So, most adults undergo an initial trial of a medication. The process begins with a low dose, which is gradually increasing over 3-7 days until clinical benefits are observed.
A popular psychostimulant used to treat ADHD is methylphenidate. It is available in tablet form, liquid or extended-release form (Concerta). Extended release is the most reliable since it can't be crushed and used for other purposes, like to get high. Adults who misuse stimulant medications can suffer serious health problems. Therefore, those who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse should discuss the use of psychostimulants with a mental health professional.
The stimulants can cause mood swings and sleep disturbances. If these effects are present it is possible that the patient needs to alter the medication or stop taking it. Some stimulants are not suitable for certain people with a family history of Tourette's disorder, severe anorexia, certain psychosis disorders like antisocial personality disorder and schizoaffective disorder, and certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
Mood stabilizers like bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) can improve mood and decrease the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity in adults suffering from ADHD. They act by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine at the presynaptic transporter, which allows more of the substance to reach the brain. They can be administered in conjunction with other ADHD medications or on their own.
Adults suffering from ADHD are frequently afflicted with other disorders, like anxiety or depression. These disorders can be treated through psychotherapy or non-medication treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. This treatment teaches the patient to manage their symptoms, boost their self-esteem, relationships, and improve their functioning. Therapists trained in this field are able to treat adult ADHD.
Counseling
Counseling, which is a form of psychotherapy, is an essential part of treatment for adhd in adults. Talk therapy can help you manage anger and stress, improve your relationships, and help you deal with your emotions. It can also teach you strategies to increase your self-control and reduce impulsive behaviors. Counseling can be done in person or over the phone.
Counseling can include cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches you to recognize and alter negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to ADHD symptoms. It may also include counseling for your family or marital relationship that helps your family members cope and find ways to help you. Lifestyle coaching may be added that teaches you how to manage ADHD.
Adults suffering from ADHD have difficulty getting up in the morning or going through the day. A therapist may recommend a sleep schedule that is consistent, with a 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 struggle to complete their tasks and stay on track in school, work and in their personal lives. Their issues are often caused by long-standing patterns of underachievement and failure, academic difficulties as well as job changes and relationships that are not working. Individual therapy can be used to address emotional issues like low self esteem and feelings of shame, embarrassment resulting from past mistakes and resentment at criticism, and the constant nagging of those close to them.
Behavioral coaching is a type of therapy for adults with ADHD that focuses on practical daily living strategies, like organizing your home and office and arranging your day, prioritizing tasks and managing your money. The therapy is typically offered in person or via the internet and aims to teach you strategies to improve your life when you suffer from ADHD.
Adults suffering from ADHD are more likely to have multiple disorders of the psyche, and it is crucial to address these issues as well. In certain cases the combination of medication and behavioral therapies may yield the most effective results. A therapist can help you learn how to control your mood and anxiety with mindfulness-based interventions, such as meditation and yoga, as well as treat comorbid disorders like addiction and depression.
Therapy
Many psychiatric conditions can resemble ADHD symptoms. Therefore, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the root of these symptoms. This evaluation may include an assessment of a person's medical history, psychological test and a thorough examination of the person's behavior. The test will also include a thorough review of a person's family history.
Psychotherapy is an essential component of adhd treatment for adults. It helps people deal with the emotional turmoil that results from their inability to function in a way that is consistent with their expectations. It can also improve relationships with their family members and assist them in developing coping strategies. Behavioral therapy can help patients focus on their goals and break large projects into smaller pieces that are easier to manage. treatment of adult adhd can help them control impulsive behavior and gain confidence.
Counseling for families and marriage can help couples understand the issues that ADHD can bring about in their relationships. They can also learn to talk about issues that arise in their families or marriages in a constructive way instead of blaming one another. Individual psychotherapy helps people to explore the root causes behind their problems, such as feelings of guilt or sadness. It can also help people develop healthy coping strategies, such as exercising or meditation.
Certain adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with a calming drug, such as Clonidine. This is a 2-adrenergic antagonist. It can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from comorbid Tourette's syndrome or other tic disorders. It is usually regarded as a second-line treatment after non-stimulant medications have been tried and were not effective (Wilens 2004).
Clinical trials are research studies that examine the safety and efficacy of new treatments and diseases. They can be an essential part of treatment for adhd for adults and offer the chance to take part in cutting-edge research that could lead to improved treatment in the near future. Patients should always speak with their health care provider before taking part in a clinical trial. A health care specialist will be able to provide a list with current clinical trials for patients.
Nutrition
Adults with ADHD typically find that diet plays a significant role in how they feel and how well they function. A balanced, healthy diet can reduce the impulsivity of people and increase concentration. It is also best to stay away from junk food and drink soda as they can cause or worsen symptoms of ADHD. In addition, those who suffer from ADHD should try to consume regular meals and snacks to keep their blood sugar levels stable throughout the day. This can help improve their energy levels, mood, and sleep quality.
It is crucial to assess adults suffering from ADHD symptoms to ensure they are not caused by another condition. Numerous medical conditions can cause symptoms and signs that resemble those of ADHD, such as thyroid disorders, lead poisoning and issues with hearing and vision. Depression and anxiety, a drug or alcohol history and certain medications are possible.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be more difficult than it is for children. A diagnosis requires a thorough history of childhood symptoms that are similar to ADHD and an evaluation of functional impairment. Many adults do not have a clear diagnosis of childhood ADHD, or may not have an older parent or sibling who can verify symptoms. If a person is actively abusing alcohol or drugs and is a frequent user of drugs, they may not be the ideal candidate for psychostimulants. The doctor should consider this when deciding whether or not to prescribe them.
There are several FDA-approved medications that can be used to treat adult ADHD such as stimulants and nonstimulant drugs. They are effective in reducing ADHD symptoms, but they should be used responsibly and people who suffer from the disorder should be checked regularly for any adverse effects. There are also longer-acting versions of these drugs that can be taken once or twice per day, which is an option that is more suitable for adults suffering from ADHD. These medications are available in chewable, tablet or liquid forms and can be taken with food or without food.