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Treating ADHD With Medications Many people who suffer from ADHD also have mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can affect how well ADHD medications work, and vice versa. Health care professionals employ the same standardized ADHD symptom rating scales and psychological tests to assess the individual's symptoms. They may recommend medical or lab tests to determine if there is a medical condition which may cause symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD. Medications The foundation of ADHD treatment is medication. It helps people stay focused, reduce the risk of impulsive behavior and decrease distractions. They improve school, work and family life. They also help people sleep better, so they are more rested and less likely to make bad decisions throughout the day. Medications can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as diet, therapy or lifestyle modifications. Stimulants, which are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD, work by increasing and balancing certain chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters. The two stimulants most commonly used to treat adult ADHD are amphetamine and methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR and Focalin XR). Other medications that can be used for adults with ADHD include the non-stimulant atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants, like bupropion. Adults frequently test different kinds of medication and dosages to find the best fit for them. It can take some time to find the best combination of medications for a person taking ADHD medication. A nurse or doctor may prescribe a lower dose, and then observe the patient's response before prescribing a higher dose. They may adjust the dosage to avoid side effects, like stomach upset or drowsiness. They might also suggest changing your diet or supplements to make the medication more effective. The need of a patient for ADHD medication could alter over time, particularly if significant life changes occur. If someone has difficulty at school or at work it is best to talk to their doctor. Teachers, supervisors, and coworkers are usually understanding and will make small accommodations to help a person who suffers from ADHD accomplish their tasks. Sleeping regularly can help to improve ADHD symptoms. Therapists can help people learn new skills to cope with their issues and overcome the challenges they are having at work, home or in their relationships. This kind 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 help family members learn how to support someone who has ADHD. Counseling Behavioral therapy and other psychosocial treatments may help improve the symptoms of ADHD. In many cases, medications are combined with these methods of treatment to improve the results. Medications used to treat adult ADHD include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. The drugs can help you concentrate better, feel more relaxed and be less impulsive. They can also help them develop and master new skills. These medications are effective for the majority of people suffering from ADHD and their effects are long-lasting. The medications do not cause dependence or create a habit. However, patients with a history of substance use disorders should be assessed prior to starting these medications. Many adults with ADHD struggle to focus at school and work, which can cause problems for their careers and relationships. Counseling can assist them in improving their ability to listen, concentrate and follow directions in the workplace or at school. This can improve their performance and increase their confidence in themselves. Some therapists specialize in working with people with ADHD. Therapy for behavior can be conducted individually, in groups or with family members. Behavioral therapy involves engineering the environment to be more conducive to concentration and focus and assisting people to recognize what triggers problematic behaviors and what motivates them to engage in. It can also involve training in coping techniques and exposure therapy, which aids people overcome certain anxiety and fears. A therapist can help with the emotional issues that are related to ADHD. They can also help you develop strategies to improve family life and marriage as well as managing finances, prioritizing tasks and coping with the stresses of daily life. They can assist people in understanding ADHD and also educate their family members on how to support the person with it. Some people with ADHD are also prone to anxiety or depression disorders. These conditions are difficult to treat. These conditions can make it harder to manage ADHD symptoms. A thorough medical history is needed to determine if any of the underlying issues are contributing to the symptoms of ADHD. People with histories of seizures, developmental disorder, hearing or sight problems and sleep apnea need an additional evaluation, and perhaps other treatment. Medication Tests The most effective medications can improve the most fundamental symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine (brain molecules that aid in the transmission of messages from one neuron (brain cell to another). A medication trial allows practitioners to determine the most effective medication for an individual. They cannot know which medicine will be the most effective, but they can determine which one is most effective. The trial typically starts with a low dose which is gradually increased at 3-7 days intervals until the clinical benefits are evident. It is important to have a thorough medical history, because a variety of medical conditions could be a source of symptoms similar to ADHD. These include developmental disorders mental disorders, psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties with language and learning, and certain medical conditions such as thyroid disorder, lead poisoning and hearing loss or vision loss. Stimulant medication is the most commonly used treatment for adults suffering from ADHD however, there are other medications that can be helpful as well. Certain of these medications are antidepressants, which have a direct effect on the brain chemical norepinephrine, or specific anticholinergics which reduce symptoms by reducing activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Some of these medications are not recommended for use in children, so an experienced neurologist or psychiatrist should be consulted when prescribing them to an adult patient. Behavioral therapy can be beneficial in treating ADHD for adults. Therapists can help people and their families develop skills that will assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms. This includes time management and organizing strategies. They can also offer emotional support and teach coping techniques. Familie and marriage therapy is a great way to help people with ADHD learn to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts. For some adults, the best treatment for their ADHD is to improve their sleep habits. A regular bedtime and a good night's sleep can make a massive difference in their ability to focus, behave and concentrate. Other treatment options for ADHD for adults include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a type of talk therapy that helps people change their patterns of thinking and behavior as well as lifestyle changes such as dietary modification. Certain people can lessen ADHD symptoms by changing their diet, but it is recommended to consult with your doctor before making any changes. Certain supplements and foods can aggravate symptoms, or even cause them to disappear. Other Treatments Adult ADHD is treated with the use of psychosocial therapy and medications. The medication helps people stay organized and focused, which makes it easier to maintain relationships and keep up with their obligations. Psychosocial treatments help people learn skills that can reduce their symptoms and improve the way they perform in their daily lives including managing time and organizing strategies. These treatments can be beneficial for those who aren't able to respond well to medications. Behavioral coaching is a highly effective method of treatment for adults with ADHD. add in adults treatment teaches them practical life skills such as managing their time, money, prioritizing their tasks, and improving their organization skills. These coaches aren't like traditional talk therapy which is focused on emotional issues. Instead, they assist clients manage their behavior. They often work long-distance and do not meet their clients in person. Many people suffering from ADHD also have other mental disorders, like bipolar disorder or major depression and substance abuse issues. These conditions can cause significant stress and hinder daily functioning, therefore addressing these issues is a priority before starting any ADHD treatment. Certain medications used to treat other disorders, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Atomoxetine (Prozac) can aid in treating ADHD. Certain non-medical methods, such as yoga and meditation can help to reduce the effects of ADHD by decreasing impulsivity and increasing concentration and focus. These techniques for calming can be taught to individuals or groups. Other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type therapy that seeks to alter the way that people feel about a specific situation and can be conducted by a therapist in person or via online. Adults who suffer from ADHD often have sleep problems and a lack of sleep can worsen symptoms. Setting a regular schedule for sleep and avoiding caffeine in the evenings can help reduce this. The most effective treatment for adults with ADHD is a combination of psychosocial therapy and medication. Some people experience a dramatic improvement after taking medication, whereas others might not. It may take some time to determine the appropriate dosage and regimen. Talk to your doctor to maximize the benefits.