ADHD Medication - Using Stimulants to Alleviate Anxiety Symptoms
It's not unusual for adults with ADHD to suffer from comorbid anxiety disorders. These individuals need a management strategy that works.
It's important to first identify the signs to ensure that a professional can accurately diagnose ADHD and anxiety. adhd and anxiety medication could include questionnaires, scales or evaluations.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a kind of ADHD medication that can help to reduce anxiety symptoms in a few people. They work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine within the brain. They boost concentration, increase energy and boost productivity as a result. They can cause dangerous side effects and can be highly addictive if not taken correctly. Therefore, it is essential that anyone who is considering taking these drugs be fully aware of the potential negative effects, and seek advice from a professional to ensure that they are taken in a safe manner.
A comprehensive approach is required to deal with comorbid ADHD with anxiety. It is essential to conduct an assessment of your mental health by a qualified psychiatric professional to determine the reasons behind these disorders and create an appropriate treatment plan to address them.
Anxiety and ADHD have different root causes and can affect individuals differently. Anxiety is typically triggered by excessive anxiety and fear, while ADHD is believed to be caused by problems with executive functions of the brain. Therefore, it's often important to treat the root of the anxiety disorder before addressing ADHD symptoms. A common antidepressant medication known as an SSRI or selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor, is effective for treating anxiety disorders in adults. Brands such as Lexapro and Zoloft are included. Another option for treating anxiety is a SNRI or selective norepinephrine receptor inhibit like venlafaxine, the FDA-approved brand name Effexor.
Many people who suffer from comorbid ADHD and anxiety report that once their ADHD symptoms are under control the anxiety levels also decrease. This is because treating ADHD can reduce stress and anxiety levels by enhancing organizational skills, time management and overall executive functioning. In addition to treating the underlying anxiety, your psychiatrist can suggest various strategies to reduce stress like slow diaphragmatic breathing and meditation exercises, to help reduce symptoms of anxiety.
If stimulant medications aren't an option for you or you do not want to take the medication, your psychiatric practitioner may prescribe a non-stimulant ADHD medicine that can also aid in treating anxiety. These include atomoxetine, clonidine and Guanfacine. These are usually paired with skill training or therapy to increase the effectiveness of the medication.
While treating co-occurring ADHD and anxiety is challenging and time-consuming, the combination of therapy, medication and self-care techniques can dramatically improve your quality of life. If you're interested in knowing more about the complexities of coexisting ADHD and anxiety, speak with a psychiatric professional online and get your symptoms evaluated to determine the best method of treatment for you. The earlier you start with the treatment, the more likely that your symptoms will improve and you'll be able live your life to the fullest.