How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the most effective way to treat adult adhd. It can include individual talk therapy, medication management and therapy for families or groups.
Individual therapy can help you resolve underlying emotional issues that may conceal ADHD symptoms. This can include embarrassment with memory and planning problems and resentment over delayed deadlines or impulsive choices and conflicting relationships.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from medication to help them concentrate, pay attention and manage impulsive behavior. However, medications don't work for everyone and can cause unpleasant side effects such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skill training and medication is the best treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention to treat ADHD symptoms. They are the most frequently utilized ADHD medications. They boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two brain chemical substances. The stimulants are available in two types: a short-acting (methylphenidate), and a longer-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They can also reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. People suffering from certain health issues, such as glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis, should not use stimulants. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days shouldn't take stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed when stimulants do not work or cause unwanted adverse side effects. They include atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree and are all part of the antidepressant class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They boost levels of norepinephrine, which improves the ability to focus and control impulses. These medications aren't as rapid-acting as stimulants and can have adverse effects, such as anxiety and insomnia, but they don't carry the same risk of dependence or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, including Guanfacine and clonidine, are part of the class of blood pressure drugs but have been approved to treat ADHD. They decrease brain activity which leads to increased impulsivity, hyperactivity, and disorientation among adults suffering from ADHD. They also aid in tics and Tourette syndrome. Both medications can take a few weeks before they begin working however, they have less adverse effects than stimulants.
Certain people with ADHD and other mental disorders can also benefit from an anti-depressant such as lithium. These drugs are not identical to those used to treat depression or bipolar disorder, but they help with some of these symptoms, such as irritability or inadequate control of impulsive impulses. These medications are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medication therapy can be an effective treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. Talk therapy can help improve relationships, decrease impulsive behavior and teach techniques that can help those with ADHD be successful. Marriage counseling and family therapy are two examples. You can also use it to deal with other mental health issues like depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a kind of talk therapy in which patients learn new strategies to manage their issues. This kind of therapy focuses on transforming negative thoughts that can trigger negative behaviors. It can also assist people with ADHD learn to set realistic expectations for themselves and for others. CBT is typically short-term sessions that last 45-50 minutes. It can be carried out in a group or one-on-one setting.
CBT can help people suffering from 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 a different treatment option that incorporates CBT and meditation training. It can help reduce the impulsivity of people and improve executive functioning.
Many adults have difficulty recognizing the symptoms of ADHD. They may believe they have a learning disability, a mood disorder or another mental health issues. They may spend years seeking treatment before they are diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternate diagnoses can result in frustration, as these people are convinced that they've been working hard around their ADHD symptoms.
The use of medications is beneficial for the majority of adults with ADHD however they do not alleviate the symptoms in all cases. They can also cause adverse side effects, such as stomachaches, headaches, and trouble sleeping. In addition, they don't suit all people, and they can't stop relapses. This is why it's important to seek out treatment from a therapist and follow the recommendations of the therapist.
Adult ADHD is treated with amphetamines, bupropion atomoxetine and methylphenidate. In a recent research study, all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms over a 12-week time period more than placebo. These studies did not examine the long-term effects.
Self-help
If someone suffers from ADHD it can be challenging to stay on track and complete tasks. It's easy to feel overwhelmed with work, family and daily tasks. This can cause excessive procrastination, difficulty meeting deadlines, and impulsive behavior. Making the necessary steps to treat your ADHD can allow you to live a an active and productive life and be more successful at work and in relationships.
You may also try self-help methods to help manage your symptoms, along with medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can teach you to alter negative thought patterns and improve your mood. Breaking down large goals into smaller goals is a method that is beneficial for those who suffer from ADHD. This reduces the fear of failure and increases motivation.
Meditation can help you improve your focus and control your impulsivity. Deep breathing exercises can also aid in reducing stress and anxiety that are common to people suffering from ADHD. This can be done at home, listening to music or seated in a quiet space. Take long, slow breaths through your nose. This technique stimulates the parasympathetic nervous systems and helps to calm the brain.
It is important to create a network of family and friends who can support you in your struggles. You can find a local or online support group that provides assistance and advice to adults with ADHD. You can also find a therapist that is trained in adult ADHD who can help you manage your symptoms.
Managing ADHD is a long process, and it's normal to experience some setbacks along the way. Keep in mind that seeking treatment is a good sign. With the right strategies, you can thrive in your relationships, at work and at home.
If you're unsure of how to begin, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed and accredited therapy provider in your area. Take a free assessment and start in just 48 hours. The earlier you address your needs, the quicker you'll begin to see results.
Support groups
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle with the challenges of living with their condition, but they don't have to face these challenges alone. Support groups are an excellent resource for people with ADHD, and their families. They provide not only emotional support but also information on treatments. It is important to check the credibility of any group before attending. Find a website or social media account that has 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, networking, and information for people suffering from ADHD and their families. They also provide a directory of healthcare professionals that specialize in ADHD. In addition, ADDitude magazine, a national online magazine, provides news, advice, and resources for people with ADHD and their families.
Support groups help people with ADHD boost their self-esteem and their relationships can be improved by connecting them with people who have similar experiences. The participants are also able to learn coping strategies and share their experiences and successes with others. Support groups are often 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 assistance for those who are unable to afford it.
People with ADHD often have difficulty at school, at work, and in their personal lives. They may forget appointments, not complete tasks, and make unintentional decisions that annoy even the most forgiving colleagues or friends. Some adults have found that classes and therapy that focus on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution could dramatically improve their lives.
If you're having trouble finding an ADHD support group in your region, try calling your doctor or psychiatrist. They may refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in treatment for inattentive adhd in adults treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors have been certified as coaches. They can help you develop a plan to manage your symptoms.
In addition to medication and counseling, many adults with ADHD are able to benefit from support groups. These groups can provide you with the tools you need to manage your symptoms, so that you can live an easier and more fulfilling life.