What is adhd?
ADHD is an inherited, chronic condition that affects the way the brain works. It can cause problems with attention, impulsivity and hyperactivity in people of all ages, including children. Some risk factors for developing ADHD include genetics, environmental toxins, certain medical conditions and head injuries to the frontal lobe of the brain.
Adults with ADHD often have trouble managing their time and completing tasks. They may also experience emotional outbursts and lose track of important events in their lives. Symptoms of ADHD can be treated with medications and other strategies to improve the patient’s ability to focus on their work, school or home life.
Treatment for adults with ADHD is different from treatment for children, and requires an in-depth assessment and evaluation by a medical professional. During this process, the patient will be asked about his or her symptoms and will undergo a physical examination. The doctor will look for signs of other underlying medical conditions that can lead to the same symptoms as ADHD, such as sleep apnea, seizures (petit mal), hearing and vision problems, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning.
The doctor may also do a physical exam and review your history of any medications you take. The doctor may recommend a drug called methylphenidate, which is used to treat ADHD symptoms in children and teenagers, or atomoxetine or certain antidepressants that are used to treat the symptoms of ADHD in adults.
Medications for ADHD are designed to help control symptoms and boost levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They may also help to reduce anxiety and improve the patient’s mood. Some patients respond well to stimulant medications, while others find them difficult to use or experience side effects.
Therapy for ADHD is not a quick fix and can be quite lengthy. It involves helping the patient understand his or her behaviors and their consequences, as well as addressing coping skills to help him or her stay on track with their daily life goals and maintain a positive outlook. The goal of therapy is to improve the patient’s quality of life, reduce or eliminate the symptoms of ADHD and teach him or her self-management skills so that he or she can cope with day-to-day living and manage his or her symptoms effectively.
In some cases, therapy focuses on reducing negative behaviors, like fidgeting, talking out of turn or being impulsive. These behaviors can be very challenging for those with ADHD to manage, as they can strain relationships and leave others feeling frustrated or upset.
Family therapy can also help patients, their spouses or their parents work through the challenges of treating the patient with ADHD and building a relationship that will support him or her in the future. A therapist can teach the patient and his or her family ways to manage the behavior so that everyone involved is less likely to be resentful and to blame each other for the symptoms of ADHD.
It’s normal for family members to become frustrated by the patient’s symptoms and behaviors, but it’s important to remember that these traits are a natural part of someone with ADHD. A therapist can help the patient understand that the behaviors are not caused by any bad behavior or lack of care on the part of the patient, but rather they reflect the dysregulation in the brain that causes ADHD. A therapist can also show the family members how to be more supportive, for example, by taking responsibility for their role in the diagnosis and letting the patient know they will receive support from them throughout the treatment process.
