How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the most effective treatment for adult adhd . It could involve individual therapy, as well as medication management in addition to family or group therapy.
Individual talk therapy can help you resolve emotional issues that may cover ADHD symptoms. This includes embarrassment over memory and planning issues or resentment about late deadlines, impulsive decisions and conflicts with your partner.
Medication
Many people with ADHD take medication to enhance their ability to concentrate, pay attention and manage their impulsive behaviors. It is possible that medication will not work for everyone, and can have unpleasant side effects like weight loss or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skills training, and medication is the best treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants boost brain activity in the areas that regulate attention and behavior in order to treat ADHD symptoms. They are the most commonly used ADHD medication. They boost levels of two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. They come in two types one of which is a short-acting (methylphenidate) and a long-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They can also ease the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Stimulants are not recommended for people suffering from certain medical conditions, including 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 aren't effective or cause undesirable negative side effects. They comprise atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree and are all part of the antidepressant class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They increase levels of norepinephrine which help to improve attention and impulse control. These medications don't work in the same way as stimulants do and can trigger side effects such as insomnia and loss in appetite. However they don't pose the same addiction or abuse risk as stimulants.
Other medications, like Clonidine and guanfacine are part of the blood pressure drug class, but have been approved to treat ADHD. They reduce brain activity that leads to hyperactivity, impulsivity and distractibility in adults with ADHD. They can also help with Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications take a few weeks to begin working but they typically have less side effects than stimulants.
People with ADHD and other mental disorders may also benefit from taking mood stabilizers such as lithium. These aren't exactly the same as those used to treat depression and bipolar disorder however they can aid in the treatment of some of the same symptoms, such as anxiety and poor control of impulses. These drugs 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. Marriage counseling and family therapy are two examples. You can also use it to address other mental health issues such as depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that gives patients strategies to manage their problems. This type of therapy focuses on changing negative thinking patterns that can trigger negative behavior. It can also help those with ADHD learn to set realistic expectations for themselves and for others. CBT sessions are typically 45-50 minutes in length and are short-term. It can be conducted on a one-to-one basis or in group therapy sessions.
CBT can help people with ADHD improve their executive functioning which is the ability to plan and organize tasks. It also helps people manage their emotions. Another option to treat anxiety is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) which combines CBT with meditation training. It can decrease the impulsivity of people and improve executive functioning.
Many adults struggle to recognize the symptoms of ADHD. They may think they have a mental illness, such as an anxiety disorder, a learning disability or other mental illness. They could go through years of trying to find treatment before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and other diagnoses may cause anxiety because people feel that they have been working hard to control their ADHD symptoms.
The majority of people with ADHD can benefit from taking medication, but not all symptoms can be improved. They can also trigger adverse side effects like headaches and stomachaches. In addition, they don't suit everyone, and they do not prevent relapses. This is why it's crucial to seek treatment from an therapist and follow their guidelines.
The most frequently prescribed treatments for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate and bupropion and Atomoxetine. A recent study revealed that all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms more than a placebo for 12 weeks. The studies did not focus on the long-term effects.
Self-help
If someone suffers from ADHD, it can be difficult to stay organized and complete tasks. It's easy for people to feel overwhelmed by work, family and the daily obligations. This can lead to extreme procrastination, trouble keeping deadlines on track, and even the tendency to be impulsive. You can lead more productive and a successful life by treating your ADHD.
You can also try self-help techniques to manage your symptoms, along with medications. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a method of teaching you how to overcome negative thoughts and improve your mood can be helpful. One strategy that works for those with ADHD is to break large goals into smaller ones. This decreases the fear of failure and increases motivation.
Other techniques for self-help include mindfulness meditation, which can help you control impulsivity and increase your focus. Deep breathing exercises are beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety that is common among people with ADHD. You can practice this at home by relaxing in a quiet space or listening to music as you take slow, long breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique helps calm the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is crucial to establish an extended family and friends who can support you in your struggles. You can find a local or online support group that offers advice and guidance for people suffering from ADHD. You can also find a therapist that is specialized in adult ADHD who can help you manage your symptoms.
It's normal for ADHD management to be a long-term process. There will also be setbacks. Keep in mind that seeking treatment is a strong indication. With the right strategies, you can 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. Begin in just the next 48 hours with a no-cost assessment. The earlier you address your needs, the quicker you'll begin to see results.
Support groups
Many adults with ADHD struggle with the difficulties of living with their condition However, they don't have to deal with these challenges on their own. Support groups provide a valuable source of support for those suffering from ADHD and their families. They not only offer emotional support, but also provide information on treatments. It is essential to verify the credibility of any group prior to going to. To verify the credibility of a group look for a social network or website with an authentic 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, networking, and information for people suffering from ADHD and their families. They also provide a list of healthcare professionals that specialize in ADHD. Additionally, ADDitude magazine, a national online magazine, offers news, advice and other resources for those 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 connect with other people who have the same experiences. Participants can also learn coping strategies and share their experiences and triumphs with others. Some support groups are run by certified facilitators, while others are facilitated by peer. Some of these groups may be offered by local mental health agencies and non-profit organizations. Some may also offer financial assistance to those who cannot pay for it.
People suffering from ADHD have issues at school, at work as well as in their personal life. They may forget appointments, not complete tasks and make impulsive choices that frustrate even the most patient friends or co-workers. Some adults find that classes and therapy that focus on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution could significantly enhance their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding an ADHD support group in your area, try calling your doctor or psychiatrist. They may refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors have been certified as coaches. They can assist you to develop a plan to manage your symptoms.
In addition to counseling and medication, many adults with ADHD are able to benefit from support groups. These groups can assist you in managing your symptoms to live a more enjoyable, productive life.