Treatment For Adults ADHD
Treatment for adults adhd includes counseling (psychotherapy) and medication. The medications used are stimulants and nonstimulants aswell in certain antidepressants. Finding the right medication may take some time. It is crucial to maintain regular monitoring of your clinical condition.
People with ADHD frequently forget appointments and responsibilities, make impulsive decisions and have trouble maintaining relationships. Therapy and classes that help develop how to communicate can be beneficial.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD in adults. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that affect attention and impulsivity.
Stimulant medication is used by around 70% of those with ADHD. They can reduce the amount of fidgeting and hyperactivity. They also aid in efficiency and help people finish tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can cause negative side effects that are serious. Some of them include a loss of appetite headaches, nausea, and trouble sleeping. These effects usually fade over time. It is important to use stimulant medication in a proper way. This means taking it three or four times a day and not skipping doses. It's also essential to take the same dose each time and to not overdose. If you don't take your medication properly might develop resistance to it.
Most stimulants fall into one of two drug classes which are amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are the most common and have fewer adverse effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine. This chemical helps people think clearly and control impulses. Amphetamines are a bit stronger than methylphenidates and may have more adverse effects, such as dry mouth, weight loss, a fast heart rate, and an increase in blood pressure.
Long-acting stimulant medications are the norm for treatment of ADHD for adults. treatment of adult adhd last for up to 24 hours. Regular users can manage their focus, attention and impulsivity better. They also help people feel more relaxed and calm. These medications are preferred by a majority of patients over the short-acting medications, which can be taken only as required and last for up to four hours. These medications are an excellent option for those who struggle to remember to take their medications at regular intervals throughout the day, or who are worried about forgetting their medication while at work or at school.
Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants. They can be used to determine the best medication for you, or in conjunction with stimulants. They don't pose the same risk of abuse and addiction as stimulants, however they can cause issues such as insomnia or irritability. Examples of these medications include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD in adulthood is a form of therapy that helps improve relationships, self-esteem and organizational skills. It focuses on changing negative thoughts that lead to bad behavior and teaches strategies for coping. This type of CBT is generally conducted in a group setting.
A study showed that people with ADHD who participated in a CBT program improved their ability to organize and manage their professional and social 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 how to support their loved ones without blame for the problems caused by their ADHD. It can help them learn how to reduce conflict by being more open about expectations and needs.