ADHD Medication - Using Stimulants to Alleviate Anxiety Symptoms
It is not uncommon for adults with ADHD to suffer from comorbid anxiety disorders. A well-planned management strategy is important for these individuals.
It is essential to first recognize the signs to enable a professional to accurately diagnose ADHD and anxiety. uk adhd medication may involve assessments, questionnaires or scales.
Stimulants
Stimulants, a kind of ADHD medication, can alleviate anxiety symptoms for some people. They work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine that are found in the brain. This is how they aid in improving concentration, increase energy levels and create a sense of heightened productivity. However, they can also produce negative side effects that can be highly addictive if not taken correctly. It is therefore important that anyone who is considering taking these drugs be fully aware of the possible side effects, and seek professional help to ensure that they are used in a proper manner.
A comprehensive approach is necessary to deal with the comorbidity of ADHD with anxiety. It is crucial to have a mental health assessment by a qualified psychiatric professional in order to discover the roots of these disorders and create an appropriate treatment plan to address these issues.
Anxiety and ADHD are two distinct disorders that have different causes. They may affect individuals differently. Anxiety is typically triggered by excessive anxiety and fear, while ADHD is believed to involve difficulties with executive functions of the brain. Therefore, it's often essential to treat the underlying anxiety disorder before addressing ADHD symptoms. A SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) is a well-known antidepressant which can be used to treat anxiety disorders in adults. This includes brands such as Zoloft and Lexapro. uk adhd medication for treating anxiety is an SNRI or selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor, such as Venlafaxine (FDA-approved brand name Effexor).
When ADHD symptoms are controlled anxiety tends to decrease in many people with comorbid ADHD/anxiety. This is because treating ADHD reduces anxiety and stress by improving executive performance, time management, and organizational skills. In addition to treating the underlying anxiety, your psychiatrist can recommend various techniques to reduce stress including breathing slowly and meditation exercises to reduce the symptoms of anxiety.
If stimulant medication is not an option for you or you do not want to take the medication, your psychiatric practitioner can prescribe a nonstimulant ADHD medicine that can also help treat anxiety. This includes atomoxetine clonidine and guanfacine. These are typically paired with therapy or training to improve the effectiveness of the medication.
While treating the comorbid ADHD with anxiety can be challenging the combination of therapy and medication as well as self-care methods, can enhance your living quality. If you are interested in learning more about the complexities of co-existing ADHD and anxiety, talk with a psychiatrist online and have your symptoms evaluated to determine the best course of action for you. The earlier you start your journey, the more likely that your symptoms will improve and you'll be able to live your life to the fullest.