How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the most effective way to treat adult adhd. It can include individual therapy, medication management, and therapy for families or groups.
Individual therapy can help you resolve emotional issues that may cause ADHD symptoms. clinical treatment for adhd can include embarrassment with memory and planning issues, resentment over delayed deadlines or impulsive choices and conflicts with your partner.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from medications to help them concentrate, pay attention and control impulsive behaviors. However, these medications aren't suitable for everyone and may result in undesirable side effects, such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skills training, and medication is the best option for ADHD.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention to treat ADHD symptoms. They are the most commonly used ADHD drugs. They increase levels of two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. The stimulants are available in the short-acting type (methylphenidate) and the long-acting form (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, or Vyvanse). They can also lessen the symptoms of depression and anxiety. They are not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, including arteriosclerosis, glaucoma, and advanced. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days should not take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medications are used when stimulants do not work or cause undesirable adverse side effects. They include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They increase norepinephrine levels, which increases attention and control of impulses. These medications don't perform as fast as stimulants, and they can cause side effects such as anxiety and insomnia. However they don't pose the same risk of addiction or abuse as stimulants.
Other drugs, like guanfacine and clonidine are part of the blood pressure class, but they have been approved for use in treating ADHD. They reduce the brain activity that causes hyperactivity, impulsivity, as well as the tendency to be distracted in adults with ADHD. They can also help with Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications can take a few weeks before they begin working, but have fewer side-effects than stimulants.
Some people with ADHD and other mental illnesses can also benefit from a mood stabilizer, such as lithium. These aren't exactly the same as those prescribed to treat bipolar disorder and depression however, they can help with some of the same symptoms, like anxiety and poor control of impulses. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy can be an effective treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD in addition to medication. Talk therapy can improve relationships, decrease impulse-driven behaviors, and teach strategies to help those with ADHD achieve. This may include counseling for couples and family therapy. You can also use it to deal with other mental health issues such as addiction or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a kind of talk therapy where patients learn new strategies to deal with their problems. This kind of therapy focuses on transforming negative thoughts which can trigger negative behaviors. It can also help those with ADHD learn to set realistic expectations for themselves and others. CBT is typically short-term in nature sessions that last 45-50 minutes. It can be done in a group or one-on-one setting.
CBT can help people with ADHD improve their executive functioning, which is the ability to plan and manage tasks. It can also assist people to control their emotions. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, or MBCT is another treatment option that combines CBT and meditation training. It can reduce impulsivity, improve focus, and improve executive functioning.
Many adults have difficulty recognizing the signs of ADHD. They may believe they have a learning disability, mood disorder or another mental health issue. Often, they spend many years seeking treatment for these conditions before they are diagnosed with ADHD. These false beginnings and other diagnoses can cause frustration because people feel that they've been working to manage their ADHD symptoms.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from medications however not all symptoms are improved. They can also cause negative effects such as stomachaches, headaches, and trouble sleeping. They don't work on all people and don't prevent relapses. This is why it's crucial to seek treatment from a therapist and adhere to their guidelines.
The most commonly used medications for adult ADHD are amphetamine-based drugs, such as methylphenidate, bupropion and atomoxetine. In a recent study all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms over a 12-week period more than a placebo. The study did not look at the long-term effects.
Self-help
If someone suffers from ADHD, it can be challenging to stay organized and complete tasks. It's easy to feel overwhelmed with work, family and daily responsibilities. This can lead you to delay your work and struggle to meet deadlines and engage in impulsive behavior. You can live more productive and a happy life by treating your ADHD.
You may also try self-help methods to help manage your symptoms, along with medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which teaches you how to change negative thoughts and improve your mood, can help. One method that works for people with ADHD is to break down large goals into smaller goals. This helps to reduce the fear of failure and increases motivation to accomplish your goal.
Meditation can also help improve your focus and control your impulse control. Deep breathing exercises can aid in reducing stress and anxiety which are common among people with ADHD. You can practice this at home, being in a quiet place or listening to music while you take long, slow breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system and helps to calm the brain.
It is also important to establish a support system of family and friends who can relate to your struggles. You can find an online community or local support group that offers advice and guidance for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also try to locate a therapist who is specialized in adult ADHD and can give you the tools to manage your symptoms.
Controlling ADHD is a long process, and it's normal to encounter some setbacks on the process. However, remember that seeking treatment is a sign of strength, and with the appropriate strategies in place you can be successful at work, at home, and in relationships.
If you're not sure where to begin, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed and accredited therapy provider in your area. Get a no-cost assessment and get started within just a few hours. The earlier you address your requirements, the sooner you'll see results.
Support groups
Support groups are a great resource for those suffering from ADHD and their families. Support groups are a valuable resource for people with ADHD and their families. They not only offer emotional support, but also details on treatments. It is crucial to verify the credibility of any group prior to going to. Look for a website or social media account with an authentic symbol to confirm that the group is legitimate.
The organization Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) offers in-person support groups across the United States. These organizations offer advocacy, support, information, and networking for those suffering from ADHD. They also offer a directory of healthcare specialists who specialize in ADHD. In addition, ADDitude magazine, a national online magazine, provides information, tips and other resources for those who suffer from ADHD and their families.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD improve their self-esteem, and their relationships can be enhanced by connecting them with others who share similar experiences. Participants can also develop how to cope and share their struggles with other people. Some support groups are run by certified facilitators, whereas others are led by peers. Some of these groups are provided by local mental health organizations or nonprofits, and some may have financial assistance programs for those who aren't able to afford it.
People with ADHD frequently have difficulties at work, school as well as in their private lives. They forget appointments and fail to complete their tasks and make impulsive choices that strain even the most tolerant coworkers or family members. Adults who are struggling find that therapy and classes that focus on conflict resolution and interpersonal skills can make a difference in their lives.
If you're having trouble finding an organization that supports ADHD in your area, contact your doctor or psychiatrist. They can refer to a mental health professional who is specialized in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors have been certified as coaches. They can assist you to create a plan for managing your symptoms.
Many adults with ADHD benefit from a support group in addition to counseling and medication. These groups can help you manage your symptoms so you can live a happier, more productive life.