ADHD Medication - Using Stimulants to Alleviate Anxiety Symptoms
Adults with ADHD typically suffer from anxiety disorders as well. These individuals need a management strategy that is effective.
It is essential to first recognize the symptoms so that a professional can accurately diagnose ADHD and anxiety. This may require assessments, questionnaires, or scales.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of ADHD medication that is able to reduce anxiety symptoms in certain people. They work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine that are found in the brain. By doing this, they help to improve concentration, increase energy levels, and provide the feeling of a higher level of productivity. They can cause dangerous side effects and are highly addictive when not taken in the right way. Therefore, it is vital that anyone considering using these drugs is fully aware of the potential side effects and seeks help from a professional to ensure that they are used correctly.
A comprehensive approach is needed to deal with the comorbidity of ADHD with anxiety. A mental health assessment by a psychiatric provider is essential to discover the roots of both disorders and formulate a treatment plan that addresses them in a way that is appropriate.
Anxiety and ADHD are distinct disorders with different causes. They may affect individuals differently. Anxiety is typically caused by excessive worry and fear. ADHD is thought to be due to issues with executive functions of the brain. Therefore, it's often important to treat the root of the anxiety disorder first before addressing ADHD symptoms. A SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) is a common antidepressant that can be used to treat anxiety disorders in adults. Brands like Lexapro and Zoloft are included. Another option to treat anxiety is an SNRI, or selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor, such as Venlafaxine (FDA-approved brand name Effexor).
When ADHD symptoms are managed anxiety tends to decrease in many people with anxiety and ADHD that are comorbid. This is because treating ADHD can reduce overall anxiety and stress levels by improving efficiency in the workplace, time management and overall executive functioning. In addition to addressing the underlying anxiety, your psychiatric provider can recommend various techniques to reduce stress like breathing slowly meditation, mindfulness exercises and meditation to reduce the symptoms of anxiety.
If stimulant medications aren't an option or you don't want to take it, your psychiatric physician may prescribe a non-stimulant ADHD medication that can help treat anxiety. These include atomoxetine, clonidine and guanfacine. These are usually combined with therapy or skill training to improve the medication's effectiveness.
While managing treating adhd without medication of ADHD and anxiety can be challenging, the combination of therapy, medication and self-care techniques can dramatically improve your life quality. If you're interested in learning more about the challenges of coexisting ADHD and anxiety, speak with a psychiatric provider online and get your symptoms evaluated to determine the best option for you. The earlier you start your journey, the more likely that your symptoms will improve and you'll be able live your life to the fullest.