ADHD in Adults TreatmentADHD is linked to significant impairments of academic performance and social functioning. Adults who suffer from ADHD are more at risk for depression, anxiety disorders, and addiction to drugs.
The drugs that reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing neurotransmitters that regulate attention and impulsivity seem to be working. Medication trials are usually conducted to determine which drugs and dosages are most effective for each individual.
Medication
Acute treatments, like medication, can improve symptoms of adhd in adults untreated in adults. The most effective way to improve ADHD symptoms is by affecting neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine. They function by increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters on presynaptic transportation systems and reducing their reuptake to avoid their breakdown. Since practitioners cannot predict which medication will be most effective for a particular patient, they usually conduct a trial. The process begins with a low dose, which is gradually increased over 3-7 days until the clinical benefits are obtained.
Methylphenidate is a psychostimulant that is used to treat ADHD. It comes in tablet liquid, extended-release or liquid forms (Concerta). The extended-release preparation is the most secure because it cannot be crushed and used in other ways, like getting high. Adults who use stimulant medications may be afflicted with serious health issues. So, those with a background of alcohol or drug abuse should discuss the use of psychostimulants with an expert in mental health.
The stimulants can cause mood changes or sleep disturbances. If these effects occur it is possible that the patient needs an adjustment in medication or stop taking it. Some stimulants are also not recommended for those with the history of having Tourette's disease, severe aorexia, certain mental conditions like schizoaffective disorder and antisocial personality disorders, or medical conditions like 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 block the reuptake of norepinephrine at the presynaptic transporter, allowing more of the substance to reach the brain. They can be used in combination with other ADHD medications or as a stand-alone.
Adults suffering from ADHD frequently suffer from comorbid disorders like anxiety or depression. These conditions can be treated with psychotherapy or non-medicated therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy. This treatment teaches patients to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning, self-esteem, and relationships. Certain therapists are trained in treating adults with ADHD.
Counseling
Counseling, which is a form of psychotherapy, is a key element of adhd treatment for adults. Talk therapy can help you deal with your feelings improve your relationships, and help you manage anger and stress. It can also help you master strategies to control your self and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. Counseling can take place in person or via phone.
Counseling may involve cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps you to recognize and alter negative thoughts and behaviors that cause ADHD symptoms. It could also include counseling for families or couples, which helps loved ones cope and discover ways to support you. Lifestyle coaching may be added that teaches you how to manage ADHD.
Adults with ADHD have difficulty getting up in the morning or going through the day. A therapist can recommend an appropriate sleep schedule, which includes a bedtime and wake-up time that is consistent throughout the day and night. It is essential to get enough rest in order that your body is functioning at its best.
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle with getting their tasks completed and staying on their course at work, school and in their private lives. Most of the time, their issues result from long-standing patterns of underachievement and failure academically, job turnover and conflicts in relationships. Individual therapy can help deal with emotional baggage such as low self-esteem as well as feelings of shame and embarrassment over past mistakes, and resentment toward criticism, as well as persistent nagging from the people closest to you.
Behavioral coaching for adults with ADHD is a kind of therapy that concentrates on practical solutions for everyday living, such as organising your home and work environment, structuring your schedule, prioritizing work and managing your money. The therapy is usually offered in person or via the internet and aims to help you develop strategies for improving your life as a person with ADHD.
Adults with ADHD are more likely of having comorbid disorders. It is important to treat these disorders as well. In certain cases it is possible to combine medications and behavioral therapy can result in the best results. A Therapist can assist you in learning to control your anxiety and mood through mindfulness-based treatments like yoga and meditation, and address other comorbid conditions such as substance abuse or depression.
Therapy
Many psychiatric disorders can mimic ADHD symptoms. Therefore, a thorough assessment is necessary to determine the root of these symptoms. This may include a medical history, psychological test and a thorough examination of a person's behavior. The test may also include an examination of a person's family background.
Psychotherapy is an essential component of treatment for adhd in adults. It can assist people in dealing with the emotional stress and frustrations that result from their inability to function at a level that meets their own expectations. It can also improve relationships with their family members and assist them in developing coping strategies. Behavioral therapy can help patients concentrate on their work and break down large projects into smaller steps that are easier for them to manage. It can also help them learn to control impulsive behaviors and build confidence in their ability to succeed.
Marriage and family counseling helps couples understand the difficulties ADHD can bring to their relationship. They can also learn to constructively address issues that arise within their marriages or family instead of blaming other. Individual psychotherapy can assist people to explore the root causes of their issues, which could include feelings of sadness or guilt. It can also assist people to create healthy strategies for coping like exercises or meditation.
A few adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with a calming medication like Clonidine. This is a 2 adrenergic antagonist. It is especially beneficial for those with Tourette's Syndrome or other disorders of the tic. It is generally considered as a second-line treatment after non-stimulant medications have been tried but were discovered to be ineffective (Wilens 2004).
Clinical trials are research studies that study the effectiveness and safety of new treatments for a variety of diseases and conditions. They can be an important part of adhd in adults treatment and provide the opportunity to be part of advanced research in the hope that it will lead to better care in the future. Individuals should always consult with their doctor prior to taking part in a clinical study. The health care professional can provide an overview of current clinical trials that are open to the patient.
Nutrition
Adults suffering from ADHD might find that their diet has a profound impact on their mood and function. A healthy, balanced diet can help reduce the impulsivity of people and help improve focus. Eliminating junk food and sodas can also help reduce or eliminate ADHD symptoms. Adults who suffer from ADHD should also eat regular meals and snacks, as well as drink to maintain their blood sugar levels constant throughout the day. This will improve their energy levels, mood, and sleep quality.
Many mental disorders can exhibit symptoms that resemble those of ADHD This is why it is essential for people suffering from these conditions to be evaluated carefully to determine if the symptoms are caused by another disorder. Numerous medical conditions can cause symptoms and signs reminiscent of ADHD, such as thyroid disorders, lead poisoning and hearing and vision problems. Depression and anxiety as well as a drinking or drug history, and certain medications are also possible.
Adults can have a more difficult time diagnosing ADHD than children. A diagnosis requires a thorough history of childhood symptoms that are in line with ADHD, as well as an assessment of functional impairment. Many adults do not have a clear record of childhood ADHD, or may not have an older parent or sibling who can confirm symptoms. A person who is drinking or using drugs may not be a good candidate for treatment with psychostimulants, and their doctor should consider this when deciding if or not to prescribe these medications.
There are a variety of FDA-approved drugs that can be used to treat adult ADHD such as stimulants and nonstimulant medications. Stimulants are effective in decreasing ADHD symptoms however, they should be used in a responsible manner and those affected by the disorder must be monitored regularly to check for adverse effects. There are also longer-acting versions of these drugs that can be taken once or twice a day and are an option that is more suitable for adults with ADHD. These medications are available in chewable, tablet or liquid forms, and can be taken along with food or without food.