Treatments

If you are genuinely concerned that you may have adult ADHD you should see your GP, a psychologist, or a psychiatrist. If you are diagnosed with ADHD, you should see a mental health specialist (psychologist or psychiatrist) to discuss your treatment. Psychiatrists have medical degrees and can prescribe medication while also giving therapy. Psychologists will help you adapt the way you think to improve your symptoms without medication. Different people have different treatment needs so finding the right health professional for you is important. Ask them what treatments they prefer to try and get them to explain it in detail. If you are uncomfortable with anything, don’t be afraid to get a second opinion.

Medication

Medications which are useful for ADHD in children have also been shown to be useful for adult ADHD (1). Medications can be effective in treating the core symptoms of adult ADHD – inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness – but they are not effective in improving things like interpersonal relationships or long term academic achievement. Some people experience negative side effects from medications, and consulting your GP or psychiatrist is extremely important in deciding whether medication is the right treatment for you.

The main medications that are used for ADHD are stimulants and antidepressants:

Stimulants

Stimulants are the most common medications for ADHD and come under labels such as Ritalin and Dexamphetamine. The positive effects of stimulants on ADHD symptoms can be seen in the hours after beginning to take the medication. For many people stimulants are the most effective medication for their ADHD, though their side-effects and potential for abuse make others wary of them. Possible side effects of stimulant medication are:

  • Feeling restless and overly energetic
  • Having trouble sleeping
  • Losing your appetite
  • A racing heart
  • Being irritable or snappy
  • Dizziness
  • Having an upset stomach
  • Having a dry mouth

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are usually the tried when stimulants do not address the symptoms of ADHD. Antidepressants are not as effective for as many people for ADHD, but they do have advantages of not being as associated with abuse and being simpler to take. Antidepressants begin to treat ADHD in several days though their full effect may not be seen for 8-10 weeks. Side effects for antidepressants differ according medications and the risks should be discussed with your doctor.

Psychosocial Treatment

Psychosocial intervention can be effective in treating both the core symptoms of ADHD and people’s quality of life. Most research suggests that a combination of psychosocial treatment and medication is the most effective way to treat ADHD.

Many therapists will use cognitive behavioural therapy when treating adult ADHD. This involves the therapist and the client analysing the patterns of thoughts that are involved in a situation, and how these thoughts can be altered to gain a better outcome. The therapist will suggest ways to think positively, as well as alter your behaviours in order to get the most out of life. Research has shown this to be an effective way of treating ADHD in many adults.

References:

(1) Dodson, W. (2005) Pharmacotherapy of Adult ADHD. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 61(5), 589-606.

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