ADHD in Adults Treatment

ADHD is associated with significant problems in academic performance and social functioning. Adults who suffer from ADHD have a higher risk of depression, anxiety disorders as well as substance abuse and substance use disorders.

Treatments that help improve core ADHD symptoms are believed to work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters that control attention and impulsivity. Trials of medication are conducted to determine which medication is most effective and in what dosages.

Medication

The use of acute treatments, such as medication, can help to improve ADHD symptoms in adults. Medications most effectively improve core ADHD symptoms by affecting neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They function by increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters at the presynaptic transporters, and reducing their reuptake, which prevents their breakdown. Practitioners cannot know in advance what medication is most effective for a specific person, so most adults undergo a medication trial. This begins with a low dose that is slowly increasing over 3-7 days until clinical benefits are observed.

Methylphenidate is a common psychostimulant that is used to treat ADHD. It is available in tablet liquid, extended-release or liquid forms (Concerta). The extended release preparation is the most reliable because it isn't able to be crushed and used for different reasons, like to gain a high. Adults who abuse stimulant medications are susceptible to serious health issues. Those with a history of alcohol or drug abuse should consult an expert in mental health regarding the use of psychostimulants.

Stimulants can cause mood changes and sleep disturbances. If these effects are present it is possible that the patient needs to alter the medication or to stop taking it. The use of stimulants is also not recommended for certain people who have a family history of Tourette's disease, severe anorexia, certain psychiatric conditions such as antisocial personality disorder and schizoaffective disorder, and some medical conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease.

Mood stabilizers like bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) can improve mood and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity among adults suffering from ADHD. They work by blocking norepinephrine reuptake at the presynaptic transporter which allows for a greater amount of the substance to be absorbed by the brain. They can be given together with other ADHD medications or as a stand-alone.

Adults suffering from ADHD typically suffer from co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety. These conditions can be treated with psychotherapy or non-medicated treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. This treatment helps the patient learn to manage their symptoms, increase their self-esteem and relationships, and improve their performance. Some therapists are trained to treat adults with ADHD.

Counseling

One of the most important aspects of adhd treatment for adults is counseling, a kind of psychotherapy. Talk therapy can help you work through your emotions improve your relationships and help you manage stress and anger. It can also help you master methods to improve self-control and decrease your impulsive behavior. Counseling can be conducted in person or by phone.

Counseling may include cognitive behavioral therapy. This helps you learn to recognize and change negative thoughts and behaviors that can cause ADHD symptoms. It could also involve counseling for families or couples that helps your loved ones cope and discover ways to treat adhd to help you. Lifestyle coaching could be a part of the program in the training to manage ADHD.

Adults suffering from ADHD frequently have trouble getting up in the morning and navigating the day without feeling tired or annoyed. A therapist may suggest an appropriate sleep schedule, which includes a bedtime and wake-up time that is consistent each day and night. It is essential to get enough sleep to ensure that your body can function optimally.

Many people with ADHD have difficulty getting their tasks completed and staying on track at school, work and in their personal lives. Their issues are often caused by long-standing patterns of underachievement and failure academic challenges as well as job changes and relationships that are not working. Individual talk therapy can help you deal with emotional baggage, such as low self-esteem, feeling of shame and embarrassment resulting due to past mistakes, and resentment at the criticism and the nagging that you receive from the people closest to you.

Behavioral coaching for adults ADHD is a form of therapy that focuses on practical solutions for everyday living, such as organizing your workplace and home as well as structuring your day, prioritizing tasks and managing your money. This therapy is usually available in person or on the internet and aims to teach you strategies to help you live a better life with ADHD.

Adults who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from comorbid disorders than other mental health conditions, so it's important to address these as well. In some cases the combination of medication and behavioral therapies may yield the most effective results. A therapist can help you learn to manage your mood and anxiety with mindfulness-based therapies like yoga and meditation, and treat other comorbid conditions such as depression or substance misuse.

Therapy

Many psychiatric disorders can mimic ADHD symptoms. To determine the reason for the symptoms of ADHD an extensive evaluation is required. This evaluation can include a thorough review of the person's medical history, psychological testing and a thorough analysis of their behavior. The evaluation will also include a thorough investigation of a person's family history.

Psychotherapy is an important part of treatment for adhd in adults. It can help people deal with the emotional turmoil and frustrations that result from their inability to function at a level that satisfies their own expectations. It can also enhance the relationships with their families and aid in the development of coping strategies. Behavioral therapy can help patients to focus on their work and break big projects into small steps that are easier to manage. It can help them control their impulsive behavior and build confidence.

Marriage and family counseling can help couples understand the challenges that ADHD can bring about in their relationships. They can also learn how to discuss issues in a constructive manner that arise within their marriages or family instead of blaming one other. Individual psychotherapy can assist people to discover the root of their issues, such as feelings of guilt or sadness. It can also help them to create healthy coping strategies, such as meditation or exercise.

A calming medication, such as clonidine, a 2-adrenergic receptor agonist, can be used to treat impulsivity and hyperactivity in some adults suffering from ADHD. It can be particularly helpful for people who suffer from an underlying Tourette's disorder or other tic disorders. It is usually used as a second line medication after nonstimulant drugs have been tried, but are found to not be effective.

Clinical trials are research studies which examine the safety and efficacy of new treatments and diseases. They can be a vital component of adhd treatment and offer a chance to participate in cutting-edge research in the hopes that it will result in better treatment in the future. Individuals should always consult with their health care provider before participating in a clinical trial. The health care professional can provide a list of current clinical trials available to the patient.

Nutrition

Adults who suffer from ADHD might find that their diet has a major impact on their mood and perform. A healthy, balanced diet can reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. It's also best to stay away from drinks that are high in sugar and junk food because they can trigger or worsen symptoms of ADHD. Adults with ADHD should consume regular meals, snacks and drinks to ensure that their blood sugar levels remain constant throughout the day. This can improve their mood, energy level, and sleep quality.

It is essential to examine adults with ADHD symptoms to ensure they are not caused by a different condition. Many medical conditions can trigger symptoms and signs that resemble those of ADHD like thyroid disorders, lead poisoning and problems with vision and hearing. Depression and anxiety, a drug or alcohol history, and certain medications are also possible.

The diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be more difficult than in children. A diagnosis requires a thorough history of childhood symptoms that are consistent with ADHD and an assessment of functional impairment. Many adults do not have a clear childhood ADHD background, or might not have a parent or a sibling who can verify their symptoms. Someone who is drinking or using drugs may not be a suitable candidate for treatment with psychostimulants, and their doctor should be aware of 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 drugs. They can be effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD however, they should be used in a responsible manner, and people with this disorder must be monitored regularly for side effects. There are also longer-acting versions of these drugs that can be taken once or twice daily which is a more convenient option for adults suffering from ADHD. These medications are available in tablet, liquid or chewable forms and can be taken with or without food.