• October 7, 2024
• Uncategorized
• Jeffrey Aviles

It’s estimated that nearly 9 million adults in the United States have ADHD. Many people with ADHD are diagnosed as children, but some don’t receive an official diagnosis until adulthood. 

No matter the age, if there’s a silver lining to this disorder, it’s that it’s often very manageable with the right treatment plan in place. 

One of the most effective solutions for ADHD is medication. There are a variety of ADHD medications that work in different ways. Understanding their functions can make it easier for you to work with your doctor or a mental health professional to determine which type of medication will meet your needs. 

Let’s cover a few medication management tips, as well as another treatment solution that’s highly effective for ADHD. 

How Do ADHD Medications Work?

How an ADHD medication works depends on the type you’re taking. Stimulants are very common for people with attention disorders, as they increase brain activity and can make it easier to pay attention and stay focused. They can also make it easier to control behavior, which is why they’re so popular for kids and teens dealing with ADHD. 

Non-stimulants are also a popular option. They boost norepinephrine levels in the brain, which can improve executive function and focus. Non-stimulants can also boost dopamine levels, which might improve your overall quality of life and increase your motivation and productivity. Non-stimulants are often less likely to be misused, but they can sometimes take longer to work. 

It’s difficult to say which option is the “best” when it comes to ADHD medication. Everyone is different and what works well for someone else might not be right for you. In general, however, long-acting stimulants are many people’s first choice. They make it easier to manage your symptoms throughout the day, rather than experiencing highs and lows and dips in energy. 

Is ADHD Medication Safe?

Like most prescription medications, there are some potential side effects involved when taking ADHD drugs. You might experience mood changes or even physical issues like nausea, headaches, or dizziness. 

More often than not, side effects will go away on their own after a few days of consistently taking the medication. If they don’t, don’t hesitate to talk to a doctor about trying a different option. 

Therapy for ADHD

Medication might be the first place people turn when they’re trying to manage ADHD, but therapy is also an effective solution that is often done in tandem with taking a prescription. 

Therapy for ADHD can help you manage distressing thoughts that might be impacting your life. You’ll learn to change behaviors and focus on your strengths and positive attributes, rather than focusing on the negative things that might be holding you back. 

Therapy can also help you learn how to manage your time more effectively, stay organized, and even make plans. It’s an effective and practical way to manage your symptoms and take control of your disorder. 

Is ADHD Medication Right for You?

It’s important to keep in mind that ADHD medications aren’t necessarily a “treatment” for the disorder. There isn’t a cure for ADHD. However, they can make it much easier to go through your daily tasks feeling more in control and focused. ADHD medications directly impact the areas of your brain that affect concentration, so they can make a big difference in everything from your career to your relationships. 

Some people choose to manage their ADHD without medication, and you can have success doing that, too. If you’re interested in learning more or you’re struggling to find the right treatment path, you don’t have to do it alone. Contact us to set up an appointment or to learn more about your options.