ADHD in Adults Treatment
ADHD is associated with significant impairments in academic achievement and social functioning. Adults with ADHD are at a higher risk of anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, and disorders of use.
The medications that improve ADHD symptoms by increasing neurotransmitters that control attention and impulsivity seem to be effective. Trials of medication are typically conducted to determine which drugs and in what dosages work best for each individual.
Medication
Acute treatments, such as medication, can aid in reducing symptoms of ADHD in adults. The most effective way to reduce ADHD symptoms is through altering neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine. They function by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters available at presynaptic nerves and reducing their reuptake in order to prevent breakdown. Practitioners cannot know in advance what medication is most effective for a particular patient, so most adults undergo an initial trial of a medication. The dose of the low dose is gradually increased over 3-7 days, until clinical benefits have been realized.
A popular psychostimulant used to treat ADHD is methylphenidate. It is available in tablet form liquid, extended-release or liquid forms (Concerta). The extended release formulation is the most dependable because it isn’t able to be crushed and used for different purposes, such as to gain a high. Adults who abuse stimulant medication may be afflicted with serious health issues. People who have a history of alcohol or drug abuse should talk to a mental health professional about the use of psychostimulants.
Stimulants may cause mood swings or sleep disturbances. If these effects occur, a person may need to change to a different form of medication, or even stop it. The use of stimulants is also not recommended for those with a history of Tourette’s disease, severe anorexia, certain psychiatric conditions such as schizoaffective disorders and antisocial personality disorder, as well as certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
Mood stabilizers such as bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) can enhance mood and decrease the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity among adults suffering from ADHD. They block the reuptake of norepinephrine in the presynaptic transporter, allowing more of the substance to reach the brain. They can be used in combination with other ADHD medication or on their own.
Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently suffer from comorbid disorders like depression or anxiety. They 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 functioning, self-esteem and relationships. Some therapists have specialized training in treating inattentive adhd adult ADHD.
Counseling
A key part of treatment for adhd in adults is counseling, which is a kind of psychotherapy. Talk therapy can help you manage your anxiety and stress, enhance your relationships, and help you deal with your emotions. It can also help you learn strategies to control your self and decrease impulsive behavior. Counseling can be provided in person or over the phone.
Counseling could include cognitive behavior therapy. This helps you learn to recognize and change negative thoughts and behaviors that can contribute to ADHD symptoms. It may also include counseling for your family or marital relationship, which helps family members cope and find ways to support you. It could also include lifestyle coaching, which teaches you skills to help manage your ADHD.
Adults suffering from ADHD often have difficulty getting up in the morning and going through the day without feeling groggy or irritable. A therapist can recommend a schedule for sleep, which could include an evening and wake-up time that is consistent throughout the night and day. It is crucial to get enough sleep so that your body is functioning at its best.
Many people who suffer from ADHD struggle to complete tasks and stay on track in school, work and their personal lives. Their problems are often caused by long-standing patterns of failure and underachievement academic challenges or job changes, as well as relationships that are not working. Individual therapy can be used to address emotional issues like low self esteem as well as feelings of shame and embarrassment over past mistakes, and resentment at criticism, and persistent nagging from the people closest to you.
Behavioral coaching for adults with ADHD is a type of therapy that focuses on practical solutions for daily living, such as organizing your workplace and home as well as structuring your schedule, prioritizing tasks and managing money. This type of therapy is usually available in-person or online and aims to teach you strategies for improving your life as a person with ADHD.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are more likely of developing comorbid disorders. It’s important to treat these conditions as well. In some instances, a combination between medication and behavioral therapy may produce the best results. A therapist can teach you how to manage your anxiety and mood with mindfulness-based interventions, such as meditation and yoga, as well as address comorbid conditions such as depression and addiction to substances.
Therapy
Many psychiatric disorders can mimic ADHD symptoms. Therefore, a thorough assessment is essential to determine the root of these symptoms. This can include a thorough review of the person’s medical history, psychological testing and a detailed analysis of their behavior. The evaluation will also include an examination of a person’s family history.
Psychotherapy is an important part of adhd in adults treatment. It can assist people in dealing with the emotional turmoil and frustrations triggered by their inability to perform at a level that meets their own expectations. It can also enhance relationships with their family members and aid in the development of coping strategies. Behavioral therapy can help patients stay focused on their tasks and break large tasks into smaller ones that are easier to manage. It can help them control impulsive behavior and gain confidence.
Marriage and family counseling can help couples to 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 manner, instead of blaming one another. Individual psychotherapy can assist people to explore the root causes of their issues, such as feelings of sadness or guilt. It can also help them to create healthy coping strategies that include meditation or exercise.
Some adults with ADHD can be treated with a calming drug like clonidine. This is a 2-adrenergic antagonist. It can be particularly helpful for those who suffer from an underlying Tourette’s disorder or other tic disorders. It is generally considered as a second-line treatment after nonstimulant drugs were tried and not effective (Wilens 2004).
Clinical trials are research studies which test the effectiveness and safety of new treatments and diseases. They can be a vital component of adhd treatment and give patients the chance to participate in cutting-edge research with the hope that it will lead to better care in the future. Before participating in any clinical trial, participants must consult with their physician. A health care professional can provide the current list of clinical trials that are available to the patient.
Nutrition
Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently find that their diet plays a major role in how they feel and how well they function. A healthy, balanced diet can help reduce impulsivity and improve focus. Eliminating junk food and sodas can help reduce or eliminate ADHD symptoms. In addition, those who suffer from ADHD should consume regular meals and snacks, ensuring their blood sugar levels stable throughout the day. This can boost their mood, energy and sleep quality at night.
Many psychiatric disorders may have symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD This is why it is crucial for adults suffering from these conditions to be examined carefully to ensure that the symptoms are caused by a different condition. Many medical conditions can cause symptoms and signs reminiscent of ADHD, such as thyroid disorders, lead poisoning, and issues with hearing and vision. Depression and anxiety as well as a drinking or drug history, and certain medications are possible.
Adults can have a more difficult time diagnosing ADHD than children. A diagnosis is made by analyzing functional impairment as well as the history of childhood ADHD symptoms. Many adults do not have a clear record of childhood ADHD, or may not have an older parent or sibling who can confirm the symptoms. If a person is actively drinking or using drugs or other substances, they might not be the best candidate for psychostimulants. Their doctor must take this into account when deciding if or not to prescribe them.
There are several FDA-approved medications that can be used to treat adult ADHD which include stimulants as well as nonstimulant medications. The stimulants can be effective in decreasing ADHD symptoms, but they should be used responsibly and people who suffer from the disorder should be monitored regularly to check for any adverse effects. There are also long-acting versions of these medications that can be taken once or twice daily which is a more convenient option for adults with ADHD. These tablets are available in chewable, tablet or liquid forms and can be taken along with food or without.
