Treatment For Adults ADHD
Treatment for adults with adhd includes counseling (psychotherapy) and medication. The medications used include stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. Finding adhd untreated in adults can take some time. It is crucial to monitor your clinical condition regularly.
People with ADHD often forget the time and obligations, make impulsive decisions and struggle to maintain relationships. Therapy and classes that teach the art of communication can be helpful.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used medication to treat ADHD in adults. They increase the levels of chemical in the brain called neurotransmitters that influence the way we think and react.
Stimulant medications work in about 70% of people with ADHD. They can cut down on fidgeting and hyperactivity, improve efficiency, and aid people to complete tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can cause serious adverse effects. Some of these effects include headaches, loss of appetite and trouble sleeping. These side effects tend to diminish with time. It is crucial to take stimulant medications in a controlled manner. That means taking it at least three or four times per day and not skipping doses. It's also essential to take the exact amount each time and to not overdose. People who do not use their medication properly can develop a resistance.
The majority of stimulants fall into two classes of drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates, the most common stimulants, have less side-effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine. This chemical helps people to think clearly and control impulses. Amphetamines may be more powerful than methylphenidates. They can cause more adverse effects. They can cause dryness of the mouth, elevated blood pressure, and a high heart rate.
Long-acting stimulant medications are the norm for treatment of ADHD for adults. They last for up to 24 hours. Regular users can control their focus, attention and impulsivity more effectively. They also help people feel more calm and relaxed. Most patients who are prescribed these medicines prefer them to short-acting medicines, which can only be taken as required and can last for up to four hours. These medicines can be a good option for people who struggle to remember to take their medications regularly throughout the day, or are worried about forgetting their medicine while they're at work or school.
Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants. They are a good option as a first step to finding the right treatment for you, or be used in conjunction with stimulants. They don't carry the same risk of abuse and addiction as stimulants, however they could still cause issues like insomnia or irritability. These medications include atomoxetine, bupropion, and Strateva.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD in adults is a kind of therapy that can help improve self-esteem, organizational skills, and relationships. It focuses on changing negative thoughts that lead to poor behavior and learning coping techniques. This type of CBT is typically conducted in a group setting.
A study has found that those with ADHD who took part in a CBT program improved their ability to organize as well as their professional and social life. It also reduced symptoms like impulsivity and depression.
Counseling in the family and marriage can help spouses or partners who have ADHD learn to help them without blaming the loved one for the issues caused by ADHD. It can help them understand how to minimize conflicts by being more transparent about expectations and needs.