Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medications are used to treat people suffering from adhd. The drugs used include stimulants and nonstimulants as well with certain antidepressants. Finding the right medication may take some time. It is important to have regular clinical monitoring.
People with ADHD are more likely to forget obligations and appointments. They are also prone to making unintentional choices and have difficulty maintaining relationships. Therapy and classes that teach the art of communication can be helpful.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost levels of chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters that influence the way we think and react.
About 70% of those who suffer from ADHD respond to stimulant drugs. They can help reduce hyperactivity and fidgeting, improve organization, and help people complete tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can also have negative side effects that are serious. Some of these effects include headaches, a loss of appetite and sleeplessness. These side effects usually go away with time. It is important to use stimulant medications in a controlled manner. This means taking it at least three or four times daily and not ignoring doses. It's important to take the exact same dosage every time, and to avoid overdose. People who don't take their medication correctly might develop resistance to it.
The majority of stimulants fall into one of two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates, the most common stimulants, have fewer side-effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine. This chemical assists people think clearly and control impulses. Amphetamines are more powerful than methylphenidates, and they can cause more adverse effects. They may cause dryness of the mouth, elevated blood pressure, and a high heart rate.
Long-acting stimulant medicines are the most common treatment of ADHD for adults. They can be used for up to 24 hours. Regular users can manage their focus, attention and impulsivity more effectively. They can also make people feel more calm and relaxed. Most patients who are prescribed these medications prefer them to short-acting medications that can be taken as needed and usually last for up to four hours. These medications are a great alternative for people who fail to take their medication on a regular basis throughout the day, or worry about forgetting it at work or school.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD take longer to begin working than stimulants. They can be used as a test to find the right medication for you or in combination with stimulants. adult adhd treatments don't pose the same risk of abuse or addiction as stimulants, however they can still cause problems such as insomnia or irritability. Examples of these medications include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD in adulthood is a kind of talk therapy which can improve self-esteem, relationships, and organizational abilities. It focuses on changing negative thoughts that lead to poor behavior and learning strategies for coping. This type of CBT usually takes place in the context of a group.
A study showed that people with ADHD who took part in a CBT program had improved their ability to manage and their social and professional life. It also reduced symptoms such as impulsivity and depressive feelings.
Counseling for marital and family issues can help the spouses or partners of people with ADHD learn to be able to support their loved ones without blame for problems that are caused by their ADHD. It can help them learn how to manage conflicts by being more transparent about their expectations and needs.