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Treating ADHD With Medications Many people with ADHD also have other mental health problems like anxiety or depression. These issues can affect the effectiveness of ADHD medication and vice versa. To assess the severity of a person's symptoms, health care providers use the standardized ADHD rating scales and psychometric tests. They may suggest lab or medical exams to determine if there is a medical condition that may cause symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD. Medications Medications are the cornerstone of treatment for ADHD and help people concentrate and stay focused. They also reduce the impulsive behavior. They can improve school, work and family life. They also help people get to sleep more easily, meaning they feel more rested in the morning and are less likely to make poor choices throughout the day. The medications can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other treatments such as therapy, diet or lifestyle adjustments. Stimulants, which are the most commonly used medication used to treat ADHD help by increasing and balancing certain brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. The two stimulants most commonly used to treat adult ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamine (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR). Other medications that are used for adults with ADHD include the non-stimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants, such as bupropion. Adults often experiment with different types of medications and dosages to determine the most appropriate one for them. It can take some time to find the right combination of medication for a person who is taking ADHD medication. A doctor or nurse will usually start with the lowest dose and observe the patient's response before prescribing more. They may alter the dosage to prevent side effects like drowsiness or stomach upset. They might also suggest changes to the diet and vitamin intake to boost the effectiveness of the medication. The needs of a patient on ADHD medication could change over time, especially if significant life changes occur. Consult your doctor if you are having problems at work or in school. Co-workers, supervisors and teachers are usually accommodating and will make minor adjustments to help someone with ADHD perform their job. Regular sleep can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. A therapist can assist individuals develop new strategies to overcome and manage their issues, whether they are at work, in their home, or in their relationships. This type of treatment can be done in one-on-one sessions or in group therapy. The therapy focuses on changing negative behaviors and replacing them with positive ones. Counseling can also help family members understand how to support someone who has ADHD. Counseling Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial treatments can help alleviate symptoms of ADHD. In many cases, medications are combined with these methods of treatment to improve outcomes. The medicines used to treat adults with ADHD include stimulants and non-stimulants. These medications can help you concentrate better, feel more relaxed and less in a state of impulsivity. They can also assist them to learn and practice new skills. These drugs are effective for most people with ADHD and their benefits can last a long time. The drugs aren't addictive and they do not cause addiction. However, those who have a history of drug use disorders should be carefully evaluated before starting these medicines. Many people with ADHD struggle to focus at work or in school. This can have a negative impact on their career and relationships. Counseling can teach them how to improve their ability to listen, concentrate and follow directions at work or in school. This can improve their performance and help build confidence. Some therapy specialists specialize in working with people with ADHD. Individually, in a group or with family members, a behavior therapy is possible. Behavioral therapy involves modifying the environment to be conducive to concentration and focus and assisting people to discern what triggers behavior problems and what drives them. It could also include training in coping techniques and exposure therapy, which helps people overcome certain fears and anxieties. A therapist can help with the emotional challenges that are associated with ADHD. They can also teach strategies for improving family life and marriage, managing money, prioritizing work and managing the stress of daily life. They can also help people and their families to understand ADHD and provide ways to support the person with the condition. Some people with ADHD may also suffer from anxiety or depression disorders. These disorders can be difficult to manage. These comorbid conditions can make it more difficult to deal with the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough medical history is necessary to determine if any underlying conditions are contributing to the symptoms of ADHD. People with histories of seizures, developmental disorders or hearing or vision problems and sleep apnea need more careful evaluation and possibly other treatment options. Medication Trials The most effective method to treat ADHD is to increase the brain molecules dopamine and norepinephrine. These substances help transmit messages from one neuron (brain cell) to another. More Help of medication allows doctors to determine the best medication for an individual. They cannot predict what medication will be most effective, but they can find out which medication is most efficient. The typical trial starts with a low dose which is gradually increased at 3-7 days intervals until clinical benefits are realized. It is important to have an extensive medical history, since a number of medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include developmental disorders and psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety, learning and language deficits, and some medical problems such as thyroid disorder, lead poisoning and hearing loss or vision loss. There are many drugs that can be used to treat adults suffering from ADHD. The most common are stimulant medicines. However there are other options too. These include antidepressants which have a direct effect on the brain chemical norepinephrine or certain anticholinergic medications that reduce symptoms by decreasing the activity of the dopamine neurotransmitter. Certain of these medications are not recommended for children. A psychiatrist or neurologist with experience should be consulted prior to prescribing any of them to an adult. Behavioral therapy is helpful in treating ADHD among adults. Therapists can assist individuals and families learn practical techniques to assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organizing strategies. They can also offer emotional support and teach coping skills. Familie and marriage therapy is a great option to assist those suffering from ADHD learn to communicate effectively and manage conflict. The most effective treatment for ADHD for some adults is to improve their sleeping habits. A regular bedtime and adequate quality sleep can make a significant difference in their ability focus, behave and concentrate. Other treatment options for ADHD include cognitive behavioral therapy, a type of therapy that assists people in changing their behavior and thinking patterns. Lifestyle changes like dietary modifications are also efficient. Changes in diet can lessen ADHD symptoms for some people however, it shouldn't be done without consulting your physician first, since certain food items and supplements can cause symptoms or cause them to disappear completely. Other Treatments Adult ADHD is treated using the use of psychosocial therapy and medication. The medication helps people stay focused and organized and helps them maintain relationships and stay on top of their obligations. Psychosocial treatments help people develop strategies to alleviate symptoms and increase their ability to function in everyday life, such as time management and methods for organizing. People who don't respond to medication may also benefit from these treatments. Behavioral coaching is a type of therapy that teaches adults with ADHD practical life skills, including managing their time and money, prioritizing tasks and improving their organizational abilities. These coaches aren't as traditional talk therapy which is focused on emotional issues. Instead, they help people manage their behavior. They often work remotely and do not meet their clients personally. Many people with ADHD also have other mental disorders, including bipolar or major depression and addiction issues. These conditions can cause severe anxiety and affect daily functioning, therefore addressing these conditions is usually a priority before starting any ADHD treatment. Certain medications that treat other disorders, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Atomoxetine (Prozac) could aid in treating ADHD. Yoga and meditation are non-medication therapies that can help reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing attention and focus and decreasing the tendency to be impulsive. These techniques can be taught to groups or individuals. Other treatments, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of talking therapy that attempts to alter the way someone perceives an event, can be carried out with a therapist either in person or on the internet. Adults suffering from ADHD frequently have sleep issues and a lack of rest can exacerbate symptoms. Setting a regular schedule for sleep and staying away from caffeine at night can help reduce this. The best treatment for adults with ADHD is the combination of psychosocial therapy and medication. Some people notice a dramatic improvement after taking medication, while others might not. It may take a while to find the right dosage and regimen. Talk to your doctor to get the most benefit.