Should I get Medication for my ADHD Symptoms
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as ADD, is a neurological condition. According to one study, 3.4% of adults worldwide meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, and in recent years, awareness of the disorder in girls and women has grown. ADHD symptoms run in families and are associated with the functionality of particular brain areas. As a result, many people are seeking a formal assessment and pursuing the use of ADHD medications.
Living with ADHD
There is no denying that having ADHD causes significant and ongoing difficulties. Today, however, there are more informational resources and choices for evidence-based treatment available to adults with ADHD. Additionally, there are grounds for optimism and hope regarding successful adult ADHD treatment that have been backed by science.
At this time, adult ADHD medication and a form of therapy known as cognitive behavioural therapy are the primary methods for managing ADHD in adults. The evidence currently available suggests that medication works better than therapy to reduce adult ADHD symptoms, but ADHD therapy’s study base is expanding. Medication and therapy can be seen as complimentary methods in the adult ADHD toolbox because of how they each function differently.
ADHD Medication options
Stimulants are the type of medication that is most frequently used to address ADHD.
It might seem odd that drugs known as stimulants are recommended for a condition that can cause hyperactivity. However, the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine – which are linked to focus and self-regulation – are made more readily available when taken as stimulant medications for ADHD.
Lisdexamfetamine, dexamphetamine, and methylphenidate are the current stimulant ADHD medications that are prescribed in Australia and New Zealand. Your psychiatrist will chat through the choices and determine which medication is most appropriate for you.
You need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment option, equip yourself with all the necessary knowledge, such as side effects, and evaluate all the available data in order to make an educated decision that best reflects your personal values. Your psychiatrist will help you to ensure you make an informed decision.
It’s important to remember that different people respond differently to stimulant medications; while some people experience benefits, others report no improvement in their symptoms or an excessive number of adverse effects.
You may find that your ADHD psychiatrist doctor may change the medication or the dosage, in order to discover the best course of treatment for you – which could take some time.
How can I get an ADHD prescription?
If you feel that you have symptoms that fit the description of adult ADHD, a formal diagnosis with one of our online psychiatrists is required before you are able to access medication.
This assessment will involve a thorough look at your life, including at school or work. Your doctor will also need to rule out any other health conditions that can often mimic ADHD. A diagnosis will then allow you the opportunity to try ADHD medications that may help with managing your symptoms. Your psychiatrist may also suggest CBT with a psychologist for best results.
How do I get an ADHD assessment?
At Positive Mind Works, we have implemented a ‘fast track’ ADHD assessment service. We are able to offer online ADHD assessments with our experienced ADHD psychiatrist, and currently have a waiting period of only 1-2 weeks. Our books are open for this service and all we require to get started with the process is a referral from your GP.
To learn more about our online ADHD assessments and referral process, please contact our team on 1800 327 477 (AU) / 0800 327 477 (NZ) Press 2 for psychiatry. Alternatively, drop us an email on doctors@positivemindworks.co and our team will respond as soon as possible.
