ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Many people with ADHD and anxiety experience symptoms that may be overlapping especially during times of stress. A mental health professional can provide you determine the cause and a treatment plan.
Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can trigger side effects such as tics small growth delays (in children and adolescents) and stomach upset, and increased blood pressure and heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise levels of certain brain chemical, which improves attention and performance. They also increase arousal and motivation, and increase productivity. They also decrease appetite and sleepiness. Side effects of stimulant medications for ADHD may be similar to symptoms of anxiety. They can cause jitteriness as well as an increased heart rate. The stimulants can cause anxiety disorders to worsen, which is why doctors generally do not prescribe them to those who have a diagnosed anxiety disorder. An individual suffering from anxiety and ADHD could benefit from stimulants in order to increase their attention span and focus.
A doctor will assess the symptoms and medical history of a patient in order to determine the best medication for them. In addition to weighing the benefits and risks, the doctor will also examine whether the patient has any other mental health issues that require treatment. Patients who have had a history of substance abuse, depression, or bipolar disorder are at greater risk of developing complications from stimulant drugs.
The medications for anxiety and ADHD can interact with each other, so it is important to follow up regularly with your doctor. Based on your symptoms, your doctor may decide to prescribe an immediate-release stimulant like methylphenidate (Ritalin) or dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine), or an extended-release drug that is taken in the morning and lasts for six to eight hours. Some adults may have to take an additional dose of an immediate-release medication to treat afternoon.
Anxiety medication typically focus on the neurotransmitters neopinephrine and serotonin in the brain. SSRIs like Lexapro and Zoloft or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake blocking drugs like Cymbalta are frequently prescribed for anxiety. adhd and medication Iampsychiatry use benzodiazepines as a treatment for anxiety. However, these drugs can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms, and should only ever be administered under the supervision of a medical professional.
There are also non-medicated treatments for anxiety and ADHD such as relaxation techniques and psychotherapy. Talk therapy is helpful for treating both the root causes of anxiety as well as the issues that result from it, including poor communication and relationship difficulties. Relaxation techniques, like breathing at a slower pace meditation, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation, can alleviate symptoms.
In addition to a balanced diet, exercise and other lifestyle habits can ease the burden of ADHD and anxiety. A diet that is that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains, for example, can reduce cortisol, a stress-inducing hormone. In addition, avoiding foods that are high in sugar can reduce the dopamine rush that can cause hyperactivity in ADHD individuals.
It's not the only method to manage ADHD and anxiety, but it can be an effective tool for many. Self-management strategies including healthy eating, and a support network can be extremely helpful in reducing the negative effects of both conditions. The right combination of treatment and behavioral therapy is also an effective method of overcoming anxiety. A professional can provide advice and assistance to help you lead a more satisfying life.