What Is The Heck Is ADHD Anxiety Medication?
ADHD Medication - Using Stimulants to Alleviate Anxiety Symptoms
It's not unusual for adults with ADHD to have comorbid anxiety disorders. They require a management strategy that works.
types of adhd medication to first identify the symptoms to ensure that a professional can accurately diagnose ADHD and anxiety. This could involve assessments, questionnaires, or scales.
Stimulants
Stimulants, a kind of ADHD medication, can help alleviate anxiety symptoms for some people. They work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine that are found in the brain. In this way, they help to improve concentration, increase energy levels and create the feeling of a higher level of productivity. They can cause dangerous side effects and are highly addictive if not taken in the right way. Therefore, it is crucial that anyone considering taking these drugs is aware of their potential adverse effects and seeks out professional assistance to ensure that they are taken properly.
A comprehensive approach is needed to manage comorbid ADHD with anxiety. A mental health evaluation with a psychiatric provider is essential to discover the root causes of these disorders and to develop a treatment plan that addresses the issues in a timely manner.
Anxiety and ADHD are distinct disorders with different causes. They may affect individuals differently. The most common cause of anxiety is excessive worry and fear and anxiety, whereas ADHD is believed to involve difficulties in the brain's executive functions. This is why it's usually necessary to treat the underlying anxiety disorder first before addressing ADHD symptoms. A common antidepressant medication known as an SSRI or selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor, is effective in treating anxiety disorders in adults. Brands like Lexapro and Zoloft are included. Another option for treating anxiety is to use an SNRI or selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitor, such as venlafaxine (FDA-approved brand name Effexor).
Many people with co-occurring ADHD and anxiety find that when their ADHD symptoms are controlled the anxiety levels also decrease. This is because treating ADHD reduces overall anxiety and stress by improving executive function, time management, and organizational skills. Your psychiatric provider may recommend methods for reducing stress, like meditation, mindfulness exercises and slow diaphragmatic breaths, in addition to treating anxiety-related issues.
If stimulant medication isn't an option or you don't want to take the medication, your psychiatric practitioner may prescribe a non-stimulant ADHD medication that can aid in treating anxiety. These include atomoxetine clonidine, and guanfacine. These are usually combined with therapy or skill development to enhance the effectiveness of the drug.
While treating the comorbid ADHD with anxiety can be challenging A combination of medication and therapy as well as self-care strategies, can help improve your quality of life. If you are looking to learn more about the complexities of coexisting ADHD and anxiety, speak with a psychiatric provider online and get your symptoms evaluated to determine the best course of action for you. The earlier you start with your treatment, the better your chances are of improving your symptoms and living your best life.