Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medication are used to treat adults with adhd. Medications used include stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. It can take some time to find the right medication and dose. Regular clinical monitoring is important.
People suffering from ADHD often forget appointments and responsibilities, make impulsive decisions and have trouble maintaining relationships. Therapy and classes that help develop communication skills can help.
Stimulants
The most frequently used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the levels of chemical in the brain called neurotransmitters that influence attention and impulsivity.
About 70% of people who suffer from ADHD respond to stimulant medication. They can help reduce fidgeting and hyperactivity, increase the organization of people and help them complete tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can have serious side effects. Some of these side effects are headaches, nausea and trouble sleeping. These side effects tend to diminish over time. adult add treatments is essential to use stimulant medication in a proper way. That means taking it at least three or four times per day and not skipping doses. It's crucial to take the exact dose every time, and to not overdose. People who don't use their medication in a proper manner can develop resistance to it.
The majority of stimulants fall into two classes of drugs: amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates, which are the most popular stimulants, are less harmful than amphetamines. They work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine a chemical that helps people concentrate and control their impulses. Amphetamines are a bit stronger than methylphenidates, and could cause more side effects, including weight loss, dry mouth as well as a high heart rate, and elevated blood pressure.
Long-acting stimulant medicines are the standard for treatment of ADHD in adults. These work for up to 24 hours. Regular users can control their focus, attention, and impulse control better. They also help people feel more relaxed and calm. These medications are preferred by a majority of patients over short-acting drugs that can be taken only as required and last up to four hours. These medications are an excellent option for those who have difficulty remembering to take their medication at regular intervals throughout the day, or are worried about forgetting their medication while at work or at school.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to work than stimulants. They can be helpful as a starting point for finding the right treatment for you, or be used in conjunction with stimulants. They don't pose the same danger of addiction and abuse as stimulants, but they could still cause issues such as insomnia or irritability. These medications include atomoxetine, bupropion and Strateva.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD for adults is a form of therapy that can aid in improving self-esteem, organizational skills, and relationships. It focuses on changing the negative thoughts that contribute to poor behavior and learning strategies for coping. This type of CBT typically occurs in groups.
A research study found that when people with ADHD took part in an CBT program they were able to manage their lives and social and work life. It also helped to reduce symptoms like impulsivity and depression.
Counseling for the family and marriage can help spouses and partners who have ADHD learn to support them without blaming their loved one for the problems caused by ADHD. It can teach them how to manage conflicts by being more transparent about their expectations and requirements.