How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the best way to treat adult adhd. It could involve individual talk therapy and medication management as well as family or group therapy.
Individual talk therapy can help you overcome emotional issues that can cover ADHD symptoms. This includes embarrassment about memory and planning issues, resentment for missed deadlines or indecisive decision making and relationship conflict.
Medication
Many people who suffer from ADHD take medication to improve their ability to concentrate, pay attention and manage impulsive behavior. It is possible that medication will not work for everyone, and it can cause unpleasant side effects such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavior therapy, skills training and medication is the best treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants increase brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention to treat ADHD symptoms. These are the most common ADHD medication. They boost levels of two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. They are available in a short-acting form (methylphenidate) and the long-acting version (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, also known as Vyvanse). They also help reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. The use of stimulants is not recommended for people suffering from certain health conditions, like arteriosclerosis and glaucoma. People who have taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) within the past 14 days shouldn't take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medications are used when stimulants do not work or cause undesirable adverse side effects. These include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants that are referred to as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They boost the levels of norepinephrine, which helps to improve the ability to concentrate and control impulses. These medications don't perform as quickly as stimulants and can trigger adverse effects like sleepiness and a loss of appetite. However, they do not carry the same addiction or abuse risk as stimulants.
Other medications, like guanfacine and clonidine, are in the blood pressure drug class, but have been approved for use in treating ADHD. They reduce brain activity that leads to hyperactivity, impulsivity and distraction in people with ADHD. They can also help with tics and Tourette syndrome. Both medications take several weeks to begin working however, they generally have less adverse effects than stimulants.
Some people who have ADHD and other mental disorders may also benefit from taking an anti-depressant like lithium. These drugs aren't the same as those prescribed to treat bipolar disorder and depression however they can aid in the treatment of certain of the same symptoms, including irritability and poor impulse control. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medication, therapy can be a powerful treatment option for people suffering from ADHD. Therapy can help improve relationships, decrease impulsive behaviors and teach skills to help those with ADHD succeed. Family therapy and marriage counseling are two examples. It can also be used to address other mental health issues, such as addiction or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of talk therapy in which patients are taught new strategies to deal with their problems. This type of therapy concentrates primarily on changing negative thoughts that can lead to negative behavior. It can also teach those with ADHD how to set realistic expectations both for their own family members and for those they love. CBT sessions are usually 45-50 minutes long and are short-term. It can be carried out in a group or one-on-one setting.
CBT can help those suffering from ADHD improve their executive functioning, which is the ability to plan and manage tasks. It also helps people improve their control over their emotions. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), also known as MBCT is a different treatment option that combines CBT and meditation training. It can help reduce impulsivity and improve executive functioning.
Many adults struggle to recognize the signs of ADHD. They might think they have an intellectual disability, a mood disorder, or another mental health condition. Often, they spend years trying to treat these conditions before they are diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and other diagnoses can be frustrating because people believe that they've been working hard to control their ADHD symptoms.
The use of drugs is effective for most adults with ADHD, but they don't help the severity of all symptoms. These medications can also cause adverse side effects such as stomachaches and headaches. They don't work on everyone, and they don't prevent the possibility of relapses. It's important to follow the advice of a therapy therapist when seeking treatment.
The most commonly used treatments for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate, bupropion, and atomoxetine. In a recent study all of these medications decreased ADHD symptoms over a 12-week time period more than placebo. The study did not look at the long-term effects.
Self-help
It can be difficult to stay organized and complete assignments when someone has ADHD. It's easy to be overwhelmed by family, work, and daily responsibilities. This can lead you to put off work and struggle to meet deadlines, and engage in reckless behaviors. You can live a more productive and happy life by addressing your ADHD.
In addition to medications, there are a number of self-help methods you can employ to treat your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you to change negative thought patterns and improve your mood. Breaking big goals down into smaller goals is a method that is beneficial for those with ADHD. This helps reduce the fear of failing and boosts motivation.
Other techniques for self-help include mindfulness meditation that can help you manage the impulsivity of your mind and improve your focus. Deep breathing exercises are also helpful in reducing anxiety and stress which is common among those who suffer from ADHD. You can do this at home by sitting quietly or listening to music as you take long, slow breaths through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and soothes the brain.
It is essential to build a community of family and friends who will support you in your struggles. You can find an online community or a local support group offering guidance and advice for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also find a therapist that specializes in adult ADHD and can provide you the tools to manage your symptoms.
Managing ADHD is a long process, and it's normal to encounter some setbacks on the journey. However, remember that seeking treatment is a sign of strength, and with the right strategies in place, you will be able to thrive at work, at home and in relationships.
BetterHelp can help you find an experienced and certified therapist who is licensed and certified in your area if you aren't sure where to begin. Begin in just only 48 hours by taking a free assessment. The sooner you can address your needs, the faster you'll start to see results.
Support groups
Many adults with ADHD struggle with the difficulties of living with their condition however they don't have to face these issues alone. Support groups can be a great resource for people with ADHD and their families. They provide not only emotional support, but also provide information about treatments. It is important to check the credibility of any group before attending. To verify the authenticity of a group, look for a social media or website that has a verified icon.
The organization Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) offers in-person support groups across the United States. These organizations provide advocacy, support, information, and networking for those suffering from ADHD. They also provide a directory of health professionals who specialize in ADHD. ADDitude magazine is a national online magazine that provides information, news, and other resources to people with ADHD.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD boost their self-esteem and their relationships can be improved by connecting them to others who share similar experiences. The participants can also learn coping strategies and share their struggles and triumphs with others. Some support groups are run by certified facilitators, whereas others are led by peers. Some of these groups may be offered by local mental health agencies as well as non-profit organizations. They may also offer financial assistance for those who are unable to pay for it.
add treatment natural with ADHD often have difficulty at school, work and in their personal lives. They miss appointments and fail to complete their tasks and make impulsive decisions that can be a burden for even the most tolerant coworkers or their friends. Some adults have found that classes and therapy that focus on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution could dramatically enhance their lives.
If you're having trouble finding an organization that supports ADHD in your area, call your physician or psychiatrist. They can refer to a mental healthcare professional who is specialized in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors are also certified coaches who can help you develop a plan for managing your symptoms.
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from a support group in addition medication and counseling. These groups can give you the tools you need to manage your symptoms so that you can live an easier and more fulfilling life.