ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH recommends that those who suspect they might have ADHD consult their healthcare providers. A thorough evaluation will determine if the symptoms could be caused by stress, mental health conditions, or physical illness.
ADHD is usually treated by medication. Stimulants and nonstimulants are available to treat the disorder.
Medicines
Many mental illnesses mimic ADHD symptoms in adults and children. Some of these include anxiety disorders, mood disorders and adjustment disorder. Stress can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. When you are evaluating an adult with symptoms that resemble those of ADHD, it's important to consider these possibilities. Following a thorough diagnosis medications are often prescribed as a treatment.
The most common medication prescribed for ADHD is stimulant medication. These drugs can significantly ameliorate symptoms of ADHD, but are not the only option for those suffering from this condition. The use of medications should only be done after other treatments have been tried. They should not be used to replace therapy for behavioral issues.
There are two primary types of stimulant medications. Methylphenidate and dextro-amphetamine are the two most commonly used medications to treat ADHD in adults. Both have been extensively studied and have been in use for many years. They are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, liquids, and a skin patch. The most popular brand name is Adderall. Stimulant medications increase the activity of neurotransmitters inside the brain. They are effective in treating people suffering from ADHD however, they can also trigger side effects, such as high blood pressure or tachycardia. They are also contraindicated for some medical conditions like Tourette's syndrome or severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant drugs can also be prescribed for certain individuals suffering from ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine are selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors that do not possess the abuse potential of stimulants. They don't work as quickly as stimulants, however they can provide significant improvements in ADHD symptoms for some adults.
The medication can decrease anxiety and depression in addition to the severity of ADHD symptoms. This is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD and depression.
adhd treatment for adult women is important to continue visiting a physician regularly to observe the bodily reactions to the medication and to ensure that it is working. Initial appointments should be every 30 days. After that, appointments must be scheduled every month until a steady dosage is reached and then every 3 months.
Counseling
For adults suffering from ADHD therapy is a crucial treatment. Adults with ADHD are often referred to by doctors to psychotherapists that specialize in the disorder. There are studies that suggest that psychotherapy is more effective than medication for treating ADHD symptoms in adults. However an extensive medical history must be conducted to help determine the best treatment options. Numerous medical conditions, like seizures (petit mal), thyroid problems as well as lead poisoning and other nutritional deficiencies, as well as sleep apnea, can cause symptoms and signs that resemble those of ADHD. Additionally, substance use issues and certain medications can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
The use of medications is a crucial component of most treatments for ADHD and stimulant medications are the most commonly used. Methylphenidate, which is the most commonly used medication is a central nervous system stimulant and works by increasing activity in brain regions that control the flow of attention and impulses. It is available in tablets that release immediately that are tiny doses taken up to three times daily. Modified-release tablets offer an in-depth release of the drug throughout the day. They aren't considered addictive and don't have the potential to cause dependence, but they could produce side effects, which is why it's important to consult a doctor before starting them and to let the GP know if you experience any.
Psychotherapy can be extremely beneficial in helping patients with various issues related to their ADHD, including poor time management and ability to organize, impulsivity, social problems, academic failures, trouble maintaining relationships, temper flares and even antisocial behavior. Certain studies suggest that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) could be more effective than other forms of psychotherapy for treating ADHD symptoms in adults.
It is important to remember that every psychotherapy should have an element of education or training that addresses the specific problems that ADHD sufferers face, including issues with memory and learning in addition to poor organizational skills and a tendency for things to get lost. Additionally, there is growing research that demonstrates the connection between certain physical health issues, such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and neurodiverse mental illnesses, including ADHD and Tourettes.
Metacognitive therapy Metacognitive therapy, a CBT technique can be extremely beneficial in improving the functioning and mood of people with ADHD. It assists patients in developing strategies for improving their organizational skills, preparing ahead and resolving the distortions in their thinking that can lead to negative feelings or self-defeating beliefs. Stevenson and colleagues have created a group-based CBT program for adults with ADHD which was found to be highly effective in improving their behavioural symptoms and cognitive performance (Stevenson and colleagues 2002). Rostain and colleagues have also assessed the effectiveness of a combination treatment that includes concurrent pharmacotherapy and CBT in 43 adults with ADHD and found improvements in both ADHD symptoms as well as anxiety and depression (Rostain et al 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Most often, the most effective treatments for ADHD are based on lifestyle modifications. For instance, getting enough sleep and a healthy diet can reduce symptoms. Regular exercise can also reduce hyperactivity. However it is essential to choose an activity that you will enjoy and commit to. In addition, implementing relaxation techniques can help ease stress and anxiety.
The organization of your workspace can aid in staying focused and on track with deadlines. Set aside a daily time to organize your papers and other supplies, and then try using file folders and dividers to organize different kinds of documents. Label and color-code your folders so you can find the items you require quickly.
Adults suffering from ADHD struggle with procrastination and organizational issues and this can hinder their ability to finish tasks on time. Set alarms on your phone and add reminders to your calendar.
Insufficient planning and organization skills can cause problems at work, school, and home. Adult ADHD treatment requires these skills be developed. Many adults suffering from ADHD have difficulty staying focused at work, which can affect their productivity and result in frustration or embarrassment.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication that improves self-esteem and concentration. However, it is essential to report any other medications you are taking to your healthcare provider, as some interact with stimulants. The NIMH Fact Sheet on Medications for ADD/ADHD offers more details on the medications used to treat this condition.
While there are no foods that can cure ADHD, avoiding sugary and artificial additives can help reduce symptoms by encouraging the health of your brain. A well-balanced diet with a high proportion of whole grains and proteins, fruits and vegetables can also aid in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Insufficient sleep can cause anxiety, irritability and a struggle to maintain focus throughout the day. Additionally, sleep deprivation increases the chance of developing depression and mood disorders. It is therefore important to establish a regular sleeping routine and to practice relaxation techniques prior to going to bed.
People suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to make permanent lifestyle changes. Consider rewarding your patients when achieving specific goals to encourage them to stick to their treatment plan. For example, offering the reward of a Hershey Kiss after 10 trips to the gym could be an ideal incentive for certain individuals.
Accommodations
If a person is using accommodations to deal with the issue and manage their situation, they modify their environment or use tools to deal with symptoms. For example If you're small, you may need to utilize a step stool to reach items on shelves in a store. In the same way, someone with ADHD may require accommodations to aid them in their success at school or work.
Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from counseling techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT involves working with a therapist in order to change negative behaviors and replace them with more positive ones. It can also teach adults to improve their organizational skills as well as develop strategies for managing stress.
People with ADHD generally have success in their work and in personal relationships. They may experience difficulties with everyday tasks, such as paying their bills and maintaining a home. A health care professional or mental health specialist can assist an adult in determining if they have ADHD by conducting a thorough evaluation, including psychological testing and a review of the person's childhood behavior and experiences.
The evaluation usually includes talking with the person as well as their parents, and other family members. A health care practitioner or mental health professional could also ask the person to take a the standardized ADHD symptom rating scales or an assessment questionnaire. They may also conduct psychological tests to evaluate the person's spatial and mental, reasoning and executive functioning abilities.
A thorough evaluation could include a thorough examination of the person's medical records and a determination of if there are any underlying conditions that could be causing ADHD. These include anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, or alcohol abuse. People suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from other conditions. A thorough evaluation is crucial.
In most cases, the person with ADHD will be prescribed a stimulant drug to alleviate their symptoms. Stimulants are a controlled substance, so they need to be closely monitored by a doctor. They can cause side effects, including insomnia and addiction. Some adults with ADHD are having a hard time staying on the medication long term, because they don't notice their symptoms getting better.