Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medication are used to treat people suffering from adhd. The drugs used include stimulants and nonstimulants as well in certain antidepressants. It may take time to find the right medication and dose. Regular clinical monitoring is important.
People suffering from ADHD are prone to forgetting appointments and responsibilities. They are also prone to making decisions impulsively and have trouble maintaining relationships. Communication classes and therapy can be helpful.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed treatment for ADHD in adults. I Am Psychiatry increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that affect attention and impulsivity.
Stimulant medications work in about 70% of people suffering from ADHD. They can cut down on fidgeting and hyperactivity, improve the organization of people and help them finish tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can have negative side effects that are serious. Some of these side effects are headaches, nausea and trouble sleeping. These side effects usually subside with time. It's important to use the stimulant medication in a proper way. It means taking the medication at least three or four times per day, and never missing a dose. It's also important to take the exact amount each time and not overdose. People who don't take their medication properly might develop resistance to it.
The majority of stimulants are classified into two classes of drugs which are amphetamines and the methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are most commonly used and have fewer side effects than amphetamines. They function by increasing the levels of norepinephrine a chemical that helps people think clearly and control their impulses. Amphetamines may be more powerful than methylphenidates. They could cause more negative side effects. They can cause weight loss, dryness of mouth, increased blood pressure, and a rapid heart rate.
Long-acting stimulant drugs are the standard for treatment of ADHD in adults. These last up to 24 hour. People who use them regularly discover they are able to gain better control over their attention, focus, and the impulsivity. They can also make people feel more calm and relaxed. These medications are preferred by most patients over drugs that work in a short time which are taken only as required and last up to four hours. These medicines are a great choice for people who forget to take their medication on a regular basis throughout the day or worry about forgetting it at work or at school.
Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants. They can be used as a test to determine the best medication for you, or in conjunction with stimulants. They don't pose the same addiction and dangers of abuse as stimulants however they can cause problems like insomnia and irritability. These medications include atomoxetine, bupropion and Strateva.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD in adulthood is a form of therapy that helps improve self-esteem, relationships, and organizational abilities. It is focused on changing negative thoughts that can cause poor behavior and acquiring strategies for coping. This type of CBT is typically conducted in a group setting.
A study showed that when those with ADHD participated in a CBT program they were able to manage their time and also their social and work life. It also helped reduce symptoms such as impulsivity and depression.
Counseling for marital and family issues can help spouses or the partners of those suffering from ADHD learn to be able to support their loved ones without blaming them for problems that are caused by their ADHD. It can help them learn how to reduce conflicts by being more transparent about expectations and needs.