Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medication are used to treat adults with adhd. The drugs used include stimulants non-stimulants, and antidepressants. Finding the right medication may take a while. 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. Therapy and classes that help develop the art of communication can be helpful.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain that affect attention and impulsivity.
Stimulant medication is used by around 70% of people suffering from ADHD. treating add in adults can help reduce the intensity of hyperactivity and fidgeting. They can also 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 side effects include headaches, loss of appetite and trouble sleeping. These side effects usually fade over time. It is important to use stimulant medications in a controlled manner. This means taking it at least three or four times a day and not skipping doses. It's crucial to take the exact same dosage every time, and to not overdose. People who don't take their medication in a proper manner may develop resistance to it.
Most stimulants are classified into two drug classes: amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulants, have less side-effects than amphetamines. They function by increasing the levels of norepinephrine. This chemical aids people to think clearly and manage impulses. Amphetamines can be a bit more powerful than methylphenidates, and could cause more side effects, including weight loss, dry mouth and a rapid heart rate, and elevated blood pressure.
Long-acting stimulant drugs are the most common treatment of ADHD in adults. These work for up to 24 hours. treating add in adults who use them regularly find they can get better control of their focus, attention, and impulsivity. They can also make people feel more relaxed and calm. These medicines are favored by the majority of patients over drugs that work in a short time which are taken as often as is required and last for up to four hours. These medications can be a good option for people who struggle to remember to take their medications regularly throughout the day, or are concerned about not taking their medication while at school or work.
Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants. They can be useful as a start to finding the right medicine for you, or they can be used in conjunction with stimulants. They don't pose the same addiction or abuse risks as stimulants but they can still trigger issues like irritability and insomnia. Examples of these drugs 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 bad behavior and teaches coping techniques. This type of CBT is generally performed in a group environment.
A study has found that those with ADHD who participated in a CBT programme improved their ability to organise and their social and professional life. It also decreased symptoms such as impulsivity and depressive feelings.
Counseling in the family and marriage can help spouses or partners with ADHD learn to be supportive without blaming their loved one for the issues caused by ADHD. It can also teach them how to minimize conflicts in their relationships by talking more honestly about their needs and expectations.