Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medication are used to treat people suffering from adhd. Medications used include stimulants, nonstimulants, as well as certain antidepressants. Finding the right medication may take some time. It is important to have regular monitoring of your clinical condition.
People with ADHD frequently forget appointments and responsibilities they make impulsive decisions and have trouble maintaining relationships. Therapy and classes in communication can be helpful.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used medication to treat ADHD in adults. They increase levels of certain chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters that influence the ability to focus and impulsivity.
About 70% of people with ADHD respond to stimulant medications. They can reduce fidgeting and hyperactivity, increase efficiency, and aid people to complete their tasks. treating add can also improve relationships. They can have serious side effects. Some of them include a loss of appetite headaches, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. These side effects usually disappear with time. It's important to use the stimulant medication in a proper way. It means taking the medication at least three or four time a day, and never missing the dose. It's also crucial to take the same dose each time and not overdose. People who don't take their medication in a proper manner might develop resistance to it.
The majority of stimulants are classified into two classes of drugs: amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates, the most common stimulants, are less harmful than amphetamines. They function by increasing the levels of norepinephrine. This chemical helps people to think clearly and control impulses. Amphetamines are more powerful than methylphenidates. They can cause more adverse effects. These include weight loss, dryness of mouth, increased blood pressure, and a fast heart rate.
Long-acting stimulant medications are the norm for treatment of ADHD in adults. They can last for up to 24 hours. Regular users can manage their attention, focus and impulsivity better. They can also make people feel more relaxed and calm. The majority of patients who are prescribed these medication prefer them over shorter-acting drugs that can be taken as required and can last for between four and six hours. These medicines are a great option for those who forget to take their medication on a regular basis throughout the day or worry about forgetting it at work or at school.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to take effect than stimulants. They can be used to find the right medication for you or in conjunction with stimulants. They don't pose the same addiction and abuse risks as stimulants but can still cause issues such as insomnia and irritability. Examples of these drugs include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD for adults is a form of therapy through which you can help improve self-esteem, organizational skills and relationships. It focuses on changing negative thoughts that lead to bad behavior and teaches ways to cope. This kind of CBT is usually performed in a group environment.
A study has found that those with ADHD who took part in a CBT program had improved their ability to organise and their social and professional life. It also reduced symptoms like impulsivity and depressive feelings.
Counseling for the family and marriage can help spouses and partners who have ADHD learn to help them without blaming their loved one for the problems caused by ADHD. It can also help them learn how to minimize conflict in their relationship by expressing more truthfully about their needs and expectations.