How to Treat ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD find relief through medication. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine can boost the levels of certain brain chemicals.
Counseling can help you deal with the problems that ADHD causes at work, school and in relationships. Therapy can help family members to support their loved ones.
Medicines
Many people, including adults and children, with ADHD benefit from medications to aid in their ability to focus, control impulses and plan ahead. These drugs, referred to as psychostimulants, are believed to increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They also help reduce symptoms of ADHD within a short amount of time.
There are several different kinds of stimulants approved to treat ADHD, including amphetamines (Dexedrine), dextroamphetamine-amfetamines (Adderall XR, Mydayis and Vyvanse) and methylphenidates (Concerta and Ritalin). Certain of these drugs have additional ingredients that reduce appetite and promote sleeping. These medications can cause several side effects including the loss of appetite as well as stomach upsets, insomnia and weight loss. It is essential to discuss all of these with your physician prior to beginning treatment.
For adults who have co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders, the likelihood of abusing stimulant medications is higher than that of people who don't suffer from a mental health issue. It is essential to cooperate with your healthcare provider to match the characteristics and requirements of the different extended release stimulant preparations. It may be helpful to track the effects of the medication on your daily activities so that you and your healthcare provider can make any necessary adjustments.
Adults can be treated with antidepressants and Wellbutrin which contains bupropion. These medications work by enhancing concentration via two neurotransmitters that are found in the brain including norepinephrine (a stimulant) and dopamine (an antidepressant). They may be an appropriate treatment option when you've tried stimulants, but discovered that they were ineffective or too bothersome or if you have a history of substance abuse.
Non-stimulant drugs are also available to treat ADHD in adults. However, they are not as widespread as stimulants. They are generally associated with less risk of side effects such as agitation or insomnia, however all medications have risks. FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medication is atomoxetine (Strattera) Intuniv (guanfacine), Kapvay, (clonidine) (XR) and Qelbree.
Therapy can teach your child or you how to cope with ADHD symptoms, such as stress, anger, and frustration. Therapists can also help you to set reasonable goals and persist toward them, enhance your ability to focus and control the impulsive behavior, and build more harmonious relationships. BetterHelp is an online service that connects you with accredited, licensed psychotherapists who can assist you with ADHD and other disorders such as depression or anxiety.
Counseling
If you have adult ADHD, you can benefit from counseling services to assist you in managing your symptoms and live an improved quality of life. These services may include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and information about the disorder, or learning skills to become more successful. CBT is a standard treatment for ADHD that can be combined with medications. CBT helps you to change negative behaviors and thinking patterns that cause problems in your everyday life. It can also help you improve your memory, focus and mood.
If you find that your ADHD symptoms interfere with your relationships, you might require counseling for your family or marriage. Your therapist can help you learn techniques to improve your communication skills and problem-solving. Family members can learn to support you. CBT can help boost your self-esteem and increase your organizational skills, making you feel more confident about yourself. If you are having difficulty finding a therapist using a telehealth service like Talkspace. This platform is subscription-based and offers mental health services that include therapy for ADHD and other conditions. You can talk to a Therapist via audio, video or text messages. The company offers a monthly plan with unlimited messaging and a response guaranteed from your therapist, five days a week.
To manage ADHD it is necessary to have perseverance and patience. Set reminders on your phone or computer when you're having difficulty remembering deadlines or appointments. If you are unable to manage your symptoms, talk to your doctor about medication or other treatment options.
It is essential to find a therapist that is aware of the unique challenges you face when dealing with ADHD. Choose a therapist who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD and whom you are confident in. A good therapist must have a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, and be willing to listen to your concerns. Avoid the therapist who treating inattentive adhd isn't making eye contact or doesn't listen to you attentively.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders has many sources for adults suffering from ADHD. The website provides educational materials as well as support groups, webinars and classes. There is also an online directory of professionals who specialize in the disorder.
Self-help
Many people with ADHD can make positive adjustments to their routines, learn how to use their strengths, and develop strategies to manage their symptoms. These skills can help them work more efficiently, keep their organization and better interact with others. Certain techniques can also decrease daily stress and improve their sense of self-worth. These self-help programs don't offer quick fixes, but they can aid in reducing some of the more challenging aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is a popular form of treatment for adults with ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a method to help patients understand and modify harmful thoughts and behavior. It also addresses other mental health conditions like depression or substance abuse. Family and marital counseling can help loved ones deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.
CBT is a well-studied and researched treatment for adults with ADHD and can be used in conjunction with medication. It teaches patients to identify and challenge negative thoughts, which can include all-or-nothing thinking, magnifying mistakes, and downplaying accomplishments. These habits can lead you to impulsive and procrastination behaviors and also problems with interpersonal relationships. CBT can teach patients strategies for coping, such as goals, planning, and the ability to organize.
Other strategies to cope with adult ADHD include keeping a schedule and working out. Getting enough rest can help improve focus and reduce the amount of irritability. Meditation practice can increase emotional regulation and control. A recent study found that a cognitive-behavioral strategy involving mindfulness meditation training CBT,, and interpersonal psychotherapy improved symptoms of ADHD.
It is important to be aware that ADHD can affect every aspect of your life, including your professional and personal relationships. It can cause issues with money, school and work, as well as family. It can be difficult to keep your self-esteem in check. Additionally, it could lead to chronic stress and burnout, anxiety, mood disorders, and sleep problems. These problems can worsen ADHD symptoms and can have negative effects on your family, friends, and relationships. To overcome these challenges you can seek the help of an expert therapist who is trained in ADHD.
Support groups
A support group is an excellent way to connect with others who suffer from ADHD. They provide many sources of advice and information from people who have lived with ADHD for many years. They also offer emotional support. Many support groups are run by counselors who are professional and specialize in treating ADHD. Others are run by volunteers. There are also online and virtual support groups.
It is important to select a company that is reliable and safe. Search for accounts on social media that have been validated by an organization. It is recommended to use accounts that are associated with the larger organizations that you can trust. It is also important to determine whether the group is peer-led, or professionally facilitated. While peer-led groups can be effective but they might not have the resources or knowledge required to address complex issues and issues. A professional facilitator offers structure, direction, and specialized knowledge to improve the quality of an organization.
Some support groups provide various activities and events, such as meetings, workshops, webinars and coaching services. They provide assistance and useful information on treatments and medications. Many of these groups also have a list of local ADHD professionals. You can also choose a group based on your interests if looking for specific support. There are groups for parents of ADHD children and adults suffering from ADHD or ADD.
You can also speak with your family and friends about the diagnosis. It's recommended to tell co-workers, supervisors and teachers about your condition. This will make them aware of your unique needs and may help them to support you at school or at work. You can also ask them to accommodate your issues by allowing you to have more time to complete certain tasks. This is a significant step to improve your relationships with those close to you. You should always consult with an experienced healthcare professional to get the most precise information.