Wk8 Discussion Socw 6443 The Use Of Stimulants In Treatment
Wk8 Discussion Socw 6443 The Use Of Stimulants In The Treatment
Review the media titled “Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Counseling Session” and consider the medications a psychiatrist might prescribe to treat ADHD. Conduct an Internet search or a Walden Library search for at least one peer-reviewed journal article that addresses issues related to the use of stimulants for the treatment of ADHD as it relates to the client in the media program. All questions in bold then the answers 300 to 500 words not including the questions. The “Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Counseling Session” transcript has been uploaded. Must use and reference the DSM-5.
Provide a brief description of the client’s current presentation in the media program.
Choose a medication that a psychiatrist might prescribe to treat ADHD and explain in detail the major action, intended effects, neurotransmitters implicated in its use, and side effects. Explain why you think this medication might be the most effective for treatment. Explain how you might address any issues related to the use of stimulants for the treatment of ADHD. Justify your choice based on the client’s presentation and support your position with the Learning Resources and your journal article. Explain an alternative approach to treating ADHD.
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources in-text citations and full references in APA 7th edition format.
Paper For Above instruction
The client presented in the media program exhibits classic symptoms of ADHD as outlined in DSM-5 criteria, including persistent inattentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity that interfere with daily functioning. The client’s presentation includes difficulty sustaining attention during tasks, frequent distractibility, and restlessness, which are characteristic behaviors consistent with ADHD diagnosis. The media transcript highlights the client’s frustrations with academic performance, social interactions, and organization, illustrating the pervasive impact of ADHD on multiple life domains.
One commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is methylphenidate, a stimulant classified as a psycho-stimulant agent. Methylphenidate primarily acts on the central nervous system by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, thereby increasing their availability in the synaptic cleft. It is intended to improve attention span, reduce impulsivity, and diminish hyperactivity—core symptoms of ADHD. The neurotransmitters implicated in its mechanism are dopamine and norepinephrine, which play significant roles in executive functioning and attention regulation (Lichtblau, 2011).
The intended effects of methylphenidate include enhanced focus, increased alertness, and improved impulse control, which can lead to better academic, social, and personal functioning. However, side effects may include insomnia, decreased appetite, headache, increased blood pressure, and potential for abuse or dependence if misused (Preston, O’Neal, & Talaga, 2017). Despite these adverse effects, methylphenidate is considered highly effective because of its rapid onset of action and proven track record in controlling ADHD symptoms.
In addressing issues related to stimulant use, it is essential to monitor clients regularly for adverse effects and misuse. Psychoeducation plays a critical role in informing clients about medication benefits and risks, emphasizing the importance of adherence and supervised use. For clients with a history of substance abuse, non-stimulant medications such as atomoxetine could be considered as alternatives to minimize abuse potential (Lichtblau, 2011).
An alternative approach to treating ADHD involves behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and environmental modifications. These strategies focus on improving organizational skills, time management, and social behaviors without medication. Combining behavioral interventions with medication can produce synergistic effects, leading to more comprehensive management of ADHD symptoms. For example, parent training and school-based interventions can enhance the overall effectiveness and sustain improvements over time (Preston, O’Neal, & Talaga, 2017).
References
- Lichtblau, L. (2011). Psychopharmacology demystified. Clifton Park, NY: Delmar, Cengage Learning.
- Preston, J. D., O’Neal, J. H., & Talaga, M. C. (2017). Handbook of clinical psychopharmacology for therapists (8th ed.). Oakland, CA: New Harbinger.