Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medication are used to treat adults with adhd. The medications used are stimulants and nonstimulants, as well as certain antidepressants. It could take time to find the correct medication and dose. It is important to have regular clinical monitoring.
People with ADHD are prone to forgetting obligations and appointments. They also tend to make decisions impulsively and have trouble maintaining relationships. Therapy and communication classes can be helpful.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medication for treating ADHD in adults. They boost levels of chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters, which affect attention and impulsivity.
Around 70% of people with ADHD respond to stimulant drugs. They can help reduce fidgeting and hyperactivity, increase the organization of people and help them complete their tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can cause severe side effects. Some of them include loss of appetite headaches, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. These side effects usually subside with time. It is crucial to take stimulant medications correctly. It means taking the medication three or four times per day, and not skipping the dose. It's also crucial to take the same amount each time and to not overdose. Patients who don't take their medication correctly may develop a resistance.
More about the author of stimulants fall into one of two classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are the most popular and have fewer adverse effects than amphetamines. They function by increasing levels of norepinephrine, which is a chemical that aids people to focus their minds and manage their impulses. Amphetamines are a bit stronger than methylphenidates and may have more negative side effects, including weight loss, dry mouth, a fast heart rate, and increased blood pressure.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated with stimulant medication which have a long-lasting effect. They work for as long as 24 hours. People who regularly use them find they can get better control over their attention, focus and impulse control. They can also make people feel more calm and relaxed. The majority of patients who are prescribed these medications prefer them to short-acting medicines, which can only be taken when needed and typically last for up to four hours. These medications are a good alternative for people who fail to take their medication regularly throughout the day, or worry about forgetting it at work or school.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes longer to take effect than stimulants. They can be useful as a start to finding the right treatment for you, or be used alongside stimulants. They don't pose the same addiction and risk of abuse as stimulants, but they can still trigger issues like irritability and insomnia. These medications include atomoxetine, bupropion, and Strateva.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD in adults is a kind of therapy through which you can help improve self-esteem, organizational skills, and relationships. It is focused on changing negative thoughts that can lead to poor behavior and learning coping skills. This type of CBT usually is conducted in groups.
A study has found that when people with ADHD took part in an CBT program that they improved their ability to organize and their work and social lives. It also helped reduce symptoms such as depression and impulsivity.
Counseling for the family and marriage can help spouses and partners with ADHD learn to be supportive without blaming the loved one for the issues caused by ADHD. It can help them learn how to reduce conflict by being more open about expectations and needs.