ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Around 80% of people suffer from another mental illness, like anxiety. Certain ADHD medications, such as stimulants, can help ease anxiety symptoms.
Talk to a psychiatrist in order to determine an assessment and treatment plan. It will take time and some trial and error to figure out which medication and dosage is appropriate for you.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drug that boosts the levels of chemical substances in the brain called neurotransmitters. They help regulate the executive and attention functions. These medications are usually prescribed as the first treatment for ADHD and are also used to treat anxiety-related symptoms that can coexist. The drugs can trigger a range of side effects, ranging from mild stimulation to euphoria, depending on the dosage, the drug, and other factors.
Many people suffering from ADHD suffer from anxiety as a side-effect of stimulant medications. Anxiety can cause a person to be unable to concentrate and may interfere with sleep. It can also cause physical signs, such as sweating or muscle tension which can affect a person’s mood. Stimulants can also increase blood pressure and heart rates. If most effective adhd medication for adults of a stimulant are causing discomfort doctors may decide to lower the dosage or switch to a different medicine.
It is essential to speak to a doctor about the way in which ADHD and anxiety medications interact. There are methods to reduce the effects of both conditions on one other, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and exercise. In certain situations, doctors may recommend nonstimulant medications or combination treatments. This includes therapy, non-stimulants and non-stimulants.
Treatments for anxiety disorders are not as effective in treating ADHD. This is because anxiety and attention problems can have various causes. However, in some cases mental health professionals can use antidepressants to treat anxiety and an ADHD combination medication, such as atomoxetine (Strattera) or viloxazine (Qelbree), to address ADHD. Streeter states that a doctor will usually focus on the condition that has the greatest impact on a patient's daily functioning.
Lifestyle changes can enhance the environment inside a person, which can ease anxiety and other symptoms. For example eating a balanced diet of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can ease anxiety and depression. Regular exercise, good sleep habits, and limiting sugar and caffeine can aid. Stress reduction and mindfulness can be beneficial as well. People who suffer from anxiety can benefit by tapping techniques like EFT or the Emotional Free Technique. These involve placing your fingertips on certain points on the body to release anxiety and stress. Other methods that are natural include yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises.