treating add 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 can take a while. It is crucial to maintain regular monitoring of your clinical condition.
People with ADHD are prone to forgetting appointments and responsibilities. They also tend to make decisions impulsively and have trouble maintaining relationships. Therapy and communication classes can be helpful.
Stimulants
The most common medication used to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that influence attention and impulsivity.
Stimulant medications work in about 70% of people with ADHD. They can reduce the amount of fidgeting and hyperactivity. They can also improve the organization of people and assist them in completing tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can cause serious adverse effects. Some of them include loss of appetite headaches, nausea, and trouble sleeping. These side effects usually go away as time passes. It's crucial to use the stimulant medication properly. It means taking the medication three or four times a day, and not missing a dose. It's also essential to take the exact amount each time and to not overdose. People who do not use their medication in a proper manner can develop resistance to it.
The majority of stimulants fall under one of two classes of drugs which are amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are most commonly used and have less side effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine. This chemical assists people to focus and control impulses. Amphetamines are a bit stronger than methylphenidates and may have more negative side effects, including weight loss, dry mouth, a fast heart rate, and an increase in blood pressure.
Long-acting stimulant drugs are the most common treatment of ADHD in adults. These work for up to 24 hours. Regular users can manage their attention, focus and impulsivity more effectively. They also help people feel more calm and relaxed. The majority of patients who are prescribed these medications prefer them to short-acting medications, which can only be taken as required and can last for up to four hours. These medications are a good alternative for people who fail to take their medication regularly throughout the day or worry about forgetting it at work or school.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants. They can be utilized as a test to determine the appropriate medication for you, or in conjunction with stimulants. They don't pose the same risk of abuse or addiction as stimulants, however they can still cause problems like insomnia or irritability. Examples of these drugs include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD in adulthood is a kind of therapy that helps improve self-esteem, relationships and organizational skills. It focuses on changing negative thoughts that can lead to poor behavior and acquiring coping skills. This type of CBT is typically performed in a group environment.
A study showed that people with ADHD who participated in a CBT program had improved their ability to organize as well as their professional and social life. It also decreased symptoms like impulsivity as well as depressive feelings.
Counseling for marital and family issues can help spouses and spouses of those with ADHD learn how to support their loved ones without blame for problems that are caused by their ADHD. It can also help them learn how to minimize conflicts in their relationships by expressing more truthfully about their requirements and expectations.