https://zenwriting.net/hublan68/what-can-a-weekly-treating-adhd-without-medication-project-can-change-your-life For Adults UK

Celebrities like Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have made public their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses publicly increasing awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to keep up with the demand, with long lines for diagnosis and a taskforce formed to improve the quality of services.

The primary treatment is stimulant drugs, which increase levels of a certain chemical in the brain to reduce inattention and excessive activity. But, they're not a cure.

Stimulants

The good news is that ADHD medication has improved since its first appearance in the 1980s. The UK has a better choice of drugs than Europe or America. The first stimulant of choice is methylphenidate. It is also referred to as Ritalin. It is available in quick-release and extended-release tablets. It works by enhancing the dopamine activity in your brain, which decreases the impulsivity of your brain and makes it easier to pay attention. It can also increase motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. Some people with Tourette's Syndrome are prescribed Clonidine (brand name Tenex), or guanfacine. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine, and it could reduce both impulses and tics.

Amphetamines is the next category of medications that are commonly prescribed for ADHD. These are stronger than the methylphenidates, but they could cause more adverse reactions like insomnia and an increase in hunger. However, they can be beneficial for certain individuals and are generally considered to be safer than the other stimulants on offer. There are two amphetamines that you might be offered if methylphenidate doesn't work for you - dexamfetamine (brand name Lisdexamfetamine) and lisdexamfetamine/amphetamine hydrochloride (brand name Dexamfetamine).

There is a non-stimulant medicine sometimes used in the UK for adults with ADHD known as Atomoxetine (sometimes called Strattera). It doesn't affect the levels of dopamine however it can cause an increase in noradrenaline levels, another messenger chemical that helps to transfer information from one part of your brain to the other. It helps in focusing and decreases impulses, but it can take several weeks to take effect.



A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD will give you more confidence to manage your symptoms. Talk with your GP and share your concerns. Request an appointment. The GP will be able to assist you if they're well-informed about neurodiverse conditions, such as ADHD.

It's normal to feel nervous before your first consultation with a psychiatrist, especially in the event that you're thinking about taking medication. You might have watched documentaries such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or heard horror stories that make you question whether you'll turn into zombies when you are taking psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have vast experience of ADHD and are adept at making you feel comfortable and safe during the process. They will begin your medication, and then schedule weekly or monthly appointments to track your growth and dosage levels, according to the treatment you select. You will then be able to return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.