How to Treat Adult ADHD
When it comes to treating adults with adhd, a holistic approach is the best. It can include individual therapy, medication management and therapy for families or groups.
Individual talk therapy can help you deal with emotional issues that could cause ADHD symptoms. These include embarrassment over memory and planning issues, anger for missed deadlines or impulsive decision making and relationship conflict.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from medication to help them concentrate, pay attention and manage their impulsive behaviors. However, the medications don't work for everyone and may cause unpleasant side effects like eating disorders 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 control behavior and attention to treat ADHD symptoms. They are the most frequently used ADHD medicines. They boost levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. Stimulants come in two types that are short-acting (methylphenidate) and a longer-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They can also ease the symptoms of anxiety and depression. People who suffer from certain health issues like glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis, shouldn't take stimulants. People who have taken monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the past 14 days should not be taking stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed in situations where stimulants do not work or cause unacceptable negative side effects. They include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants known 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 they can cause negative side effects, such as anxiety and insomnia. However they don't carry the same risk of addiction or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, like the guanfacine and clonidine belong to the category of blood pressure drugs however they have been approved to treat ADHD. They decrease brain's activity, which causes increased impulsivity, hyperactivity, and disorientation among adults suffering from ADHD. They can also help with Tourette syndrome and tics. Both drugs can take several weeks before they start working however, they have less side-effects than stimulants.
Some people with ADHD and other mental disorders also benefit from taking a mood stabilizer such as lithium. These drugs aren't the same as those used to treat bipolar disorder or depression however, they can aid in the treatment of certain symptoms, such as irritability and inadequate control of impulsive impulses. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medications, therapy can be a powerful treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. Therapy can help improve relationships, reduce impulsive behaviors and teach skills to help those with ADHD succeed. This can include marriage counseling and family therapy. It can also be used to treat other mental health issues, such as addiction or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that gives patients strategies to manage their problems. This type of therapy concentrates on transforming negative thoughts which can trigger negative behavior. It can also help those with ADHD learn to set realistic expectations for themselves and others. CBT sessions are usually 45-50 minutes long and are short-term. It can be done in a one-on-one setting or in group therapy sessions.
CBT can help those suffering from ADHD improve their executive functioning which is the ability to plan and manage tasks. It can also help people better control their emotions. Another option for treatment is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) which combines CBT with meditation training. It can reduce the tendency to be impulsive and improve executive function.
Many adults struggle to recognize the symptoms of ADHD. They might think they are suffering from a mental illness, for example, an anxiety disorder, a learning disability or another mental disorder. Often, they spend years seeking treatment for these ailments before getting diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and other diagnoses may cause frustration because people feel that they have been working hard to control their ADHD symptoms.
The use of medications is very effective for adults suffering from ADHD However, they don't help all symptoms. They can also have adverse side effects, such as stomachaches, headaches, and trouble sleeping. In addition, they don't offer the same benefits to everyone, and they do not prevent any relapses. This is why it's important to seek treatment from an therapist and follow their guidelines.
The most frequently prescribed medications for adult ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate and bupropion, and atomoxetine. In a recent study, all of these medications reduced ADHD symptoms over a 12-week period, more than compared to a placebo. However, these studies did not look at longer-term effects.
Self-help
If you have ADHD it can be difficult to stay on top of things and complete tasks. It's not uncommon for people with ADHD to feel overwhelmed with work, family and daily tasks. treatments for adhd in adults can cause you to procrastinate and have difficulty meeting deadlines, and engage in reckless behaviors. You can lead more productive and a happy life by addressing your ADHD.
You can also try self-help techniques to treat your symptoms, in addition to medications. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you to change negative thought patterns and improve your mood. Breaking large goals down into smaller goals is a strategy that works for people with ADHD. This reduces the fear of failure and increases motivation to achieve your goal.
Meditation can also help improve your focus and control your impulse control. Deep breathing exercises can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common for people with ADHD. You can do this at home by sitting quietly or listening to music while you take long, slow breaths through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the brain.
It is important to create a community of family and friends that can support you in your struggles. You can join an online or local support group that offers advice and guidance for people suffering from ADHD. You could also find a therapist that specializes in adult ADHD and can provide you tools for managing your symptoms.
Managing ADHD is a lengthy process, and it's common to experience some setbacks along the journey. Be aware that seeking treatment is a good indication. With the appropriate strategies, you'll be able to excel in your relationships at work and at home.
If you're unsure of where to begin, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed and reputable therapist in your area. Get a no-cost assessment and begin in as little as 48 hours. The sooner you address the needs of your company more quickly you will begin to see results.
Support groups
Many adults with ADHD struggle with the challenges of living with the condition however they don't have to face these challenges alone. Support groups provide a valuable resource for people with ADHD and their loved ones. These groups not only provide emotional support but also information on treatment options. However, it is important to research the credibility of a particular group prior to joining. To confirm the legitimacy of a group, look for a social media or website with 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 information, support, and networking for those suffering from ADHD. They also offer a list of healthcare specialists who specialize in ADHD. In addition, ADDitude magazine, a national online magazine, offers news, advice, and resources for people with ADHD and their families.
Support groups can help adults suffering from ADHD improve their self-esteem and improve their relationships by allowing them to meet with others who have the same experiences. Participants are also able to learn coping strategies and share their struggles and triumphs with others. Some support groups are run by trained facilitators while others are facilitated by peer. Some of these groups could be offered by local mental health agencies and non-profit organizations. Some may also offer financial aid for those who are unable to afford it.
People with ADHD often have difficulty at work, school and in their personal lives. They are unable to remember appointments, fail to complete tasks and make impulsive decisions that strain even the most compassionate coworkers or friends. Some adults find that therapy and classes that focus on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution could dramatically improve their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding an organization that supports ADHD in your area, contact your physician or psychiatrist. They can refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in treating ADHD. Some doctors and psychologists have been certified as coaches. They can help you make a plan to manage your symptoms.
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from a support group in addition to counseling and medication. These groups can assist you in managing your symptoms to live a happier, more productive life.
