ADHD Treatment in Adults
ADHD can create problems at school, at work and in relationships. It's crucial to get an extensive medical exam to rule out any medical conditions that may be similar to ADHD symptoms.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that helps people manage their symptoms. It concentrates on changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones.
Medication
Medications are the most common treatment for ADHD in adults. Usually, stimulants are prescribed to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. NIMH suggests speaking with your healthcare provider to determine if you should take a medication. Talk to your doctor when you decide to take medication regarding the impact it might have on your life.
ADHD is often coupled with depression and anxiety. These comorbid conditions can make it more difficult to receive therapy on its own. Adult ADHD is best treated by the combination of psychosocial therapy and medication (Rostain, et al. 2006).
Psychoeducation helps adults with ADHD understand their condition and its effects on their lives. It also teaches strategies for dealing with any problems that may occur. This helps boost their self-esteem that may have been affected by the constant negative feedback received from family and friends. Individual and group cognitive behavioral therapies can be used to help with psychoeducation.
It is important to have an accurate medical history since some medical conditions could present with similar symptoms as ADHD. This includes seizures, developmental disorders (petit mal), sleep disorders, and abuse of drugs. A detailed review of the person's childhood behavior and schooling experiences can be helpful.
Generally, nonstimulant medications should be first considered in patients with comorbid psychiatric conditions. When the comorbidity has improved, stimulant medications may be considered (Wilens 2004b). If the person who is in active substance abuse treatment is in stable remission stimulant medication should only be considered.
Stimulants can be highly variable in their response to different doses. It is important to carefully adjust the dosage and document the patient's reaction and side effects. It is also essential to try different formulations of the same medication. For alternative adhd treatment for adults , dextroamphetamine immediate-release has a short half-life and requires multiple doses every two or three times per day, while amphetamine salts with extended-release are long-lasting in their action.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Most people with ADHD receive psychosocial treatment which includes a combination of medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. These treatments can help adults with ADHD learn strategies to improve their organization skills to manage time and prioritize their tasks, and control the risky and impulsive behaviors. Adults may also benefit from the assistance of a life coach or ADHD coach who can help them learn a variety of different skills to enhance their daily functioning.
Many psychiatric disorders can mimic the symptoms of ADHD in both children and adults. These include anxiety disorders and mood issues, as well as learning and language issues, adjustment disorders, and some psychotic disorders. Before starting treatment for ADHD, it is important to rule out these disorders.
Approximately 75% of adults who suffer from ADHD have comorbid conditions, including depression and anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy, like is a great option for treating multiple disorders. These treatments can help people with ADHD manage their impulsive and irritable behavior and focus on problem areas in their lives.
Adult ADHD is best treated by the combination of pharmacotherapy, psychosocial therapy, and medication. A study conducted by Rostain and co (2006) found that CBT when combined with mixed salts of amphetamine improved both the core symptoms of ADHD and symptoms of comorbid depression and anxiety disorders. However it is important to note that stimulants can cause a small increase in blood pressure and pulse rate for some patients.
Psychotherapy can also assist couples and families suffering from ADHD develop the ability to communicate and get to know each other better. This can reduce tension and conflict at home, particularly between spouses. CBT can also assist adults with ADHD get a better awareness of their condition and learn to recognize and cope with negative thoughts and beliefs about themselves.
Many people with ADHD may also opt to employ complementary health methods such as diet and natural remedies. These methods haven't been scientifically proven to improve ADHD symptoms or impairments, however they could be beneficial in managing the disorder. If you are considering these strategies be sure to discuss these options with your doctor and therapist before starting any new treatments.
Counseling
It's never too late for adults with ADHD to get treatment. Effective treatment can make life simpler and help you achieve success in work, school and in your relationships. Medication is an important part of your ADHD treatment plan, but it's recommended to get therapy. It can improve your ability to manage stress and deal with disorders that are comorbid, such as depression and anxiety.
Counseling is a valuable option for adults suffering from ADHD and their families. It can help them understand how ADHD affects them and help them learn how to recognize trouble areas that could cause difficulties in their lives. It can also help them learn how to deal with the challenges that come with having ADHD, such as being disorganized or forgetful. Counseling can also be helpful for spouses of adults suffering from ADHD, as they often feel overwhelmed by their partner's lack of attention and the impulsiveness.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from multiple disorders that are comorbid, including major depressive disorder as well as substance use disorders. These disorders can interfere with the efficacy of ADHD medications. They must be treated before beginning medication. However it can be difficult to identify and treat these disorders can be difficult because many of the symptoms of these disorders are similar to those seen in ADHD.
Stimulant medications are the most common type of ADHD treatment. It can improve control of impulses and attention however it has its limitations. Certain adults experience uncomfortable side effects like dry mouth, sedation, and the feeling of drowsiness. In these instances it could be necessary to switch to a nonstimulant or an alternative stimulant. Other effects of stimulants include mood instability, visual hallucinations and heart palpitations. Some people are not able to take stimulants because of medical conditions such as asthma or cardiovascular disease, and should be referred for an evaluation.
Nonstimulants can also be effective treatments for adults with ADHD. Clonidine is an a2-adrenergic receptor agonist, has been found to be effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity in adults suffering from ADHD. This medication is effective in conjunction with stimulants and is especially beneficial for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome and other disorders.
It is important to disclose any other health issues you may have to your physician when seeking treatment for ADHD. Certain health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure may interact with certain medications that are prescribed to treat ADHD.
Family Therapy
Family therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help improve their lives at home and at work, and improve communication between them and their families. It also helps manage other disorders that are comorbid, such as depression and anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy is commonly used in family therapy to alter the way that a person thinks and behaves. It can also include family therapy and marriage counseling in order to improve communication. In some cases the therapist might suggest medication.
The most effective way to treat adult ADHD is with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. The use of medication can alleviate symptoms such as impulsivity and inattention and talk therapy can help with problem-solving, organizational skills and social interaction. In addition, medications can be used to treat co-existing disorders such as anxiety and depression.
The first step in treatment for adults with ADHD is to recognize the symptoms. This is done by completing a symptom checklist or behavioral assessment. A doctor can also assess a person's past, including their childhood and schooling experiences.
Stimulants are the most common medications used to treat people suffering from ADHD. They are generally efficient, but they do have adverse effects that must be monitored by a medical professional. Nonstimulant medications are available and are as effective as stimulants. They also don't have the same negative side effects.
For patients suffering from comorbid ADHD and other mental health issues, cognitive-behavioral therapy can be especially efficient. It is beneficial for patients suffering from comorbid conditions like addiction and depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy can assist people to change their thoughts and behaviors and help them improve their relationships.
It's important for families to understand how ADHD affects the patient. This will reduce the tension and blame between spouses. It helps them recognize the negative impact the disorder has on their relationship. It can also help find ways to support the loved ones.
At the end of therapy with the family, a therapist will review the goals and objectives that were established by the family. The therapist will also motivate the family to continue the new patterns they have cultivated over the course of therapy.