How to Treat Adult ADHD
When it comes to treating adult adhd, a holistic approach is best. It could involve individual talk therapy and medication management as well as group or family therapy.
Individual therapy can help you deal with emotional issues that can cover ADHD symptoms. These include embarrassment about memory and planning problems and resentment over delayed deadlines or impulsive choices and relationship conflicts.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from medication to enhance their ability to focus, concentrate and control impulsive behaviors. However, medications don't work for everyone and may cause unpleasant side effects such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. The best treatment for ADHD is a combination of medications, behavior therapy and skills training.
Stimulants increase brain activity in the areas that regulate behavior and attention to treat ADHD symptoms. These are the most popular ADHD drugs. They increase levels of two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. They come in two types: a short-acting (methylphenidate) and a long-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They also help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. They are not recommended for those with certain health conditions, like arteriosclerosis and glaucoma. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days shouldn't use stimulants.
Non-stimulant medications are used in situations where stimulants do not work or cause unacceptable negative side negative effects. These include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants that are referred to as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They boost levels of norepinephrine which help to improve the ability to concentrate and control impulses. These drugs aren't as quick-acting as stimulants, and may cause adverse effects, such as insomnia and loss of appetite However, they don't pose the same risk of dependence or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, like Guanfacine and Clonidine are also part of the blood pressure class, but have been approved to treat ADHD. They decrease brain activity which leads to increased impulsivity, hyperactivity, and the tendency to be distracted in adults with ADHD. They can also help with tics and Tourette syndrome. Both medications require a few weeks to begin working however, they generally have fewer side effects than stimulants.
People suffering from ADHD and other mental disorders may also benefit from taking mood stabilizers like lithium. These drugs aren't the same as those used to treat bipolar disorder and depression, but they do help with certain of the same symptoms, such as anger and poor impulse control. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medications, therapy can be an effective treatment option for people suffering from ADHD. Talk therapy can improve relationships, decrease the risk of impulsive behavior and help develop skills to help those with ADHD achieve. treatment for add can include counseling for couples and family therapy. It can also be used to treat other mental health problems like addiction or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that teaches patients new strategies to manage their problems. This type of therapy focuses on changing negative thoughts that can cause negative behavior. It also teaches people with ADHD how to set realistic expectations both for themselves and their loved ones. CBT sessions are typically 45-50 minutes long and are short-term. It can be carried out on a one-to-one basis or in group therapy sessions.
CBT can help people suffering from ADHD improve their executive functioning, which is the ability to plan and manage tasks. It can also help people control their emotions. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), also known as MBCT is another treatment option that incorporates CBT and meditation training. It can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive, improve focus, and enhance executive functioning.
Many adults struggle to recognize the signs of ADHD. They may believe they have a learning disability, mood disorder, or another mental health condition. Often, they spend years seeking treatment for these ailments before they are diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternative diagnoses can cause frustration, as these people believe they've worked hard around their ADHD symptoms.
The majority of people with ADHD are able to benefit from medications, but not all symptoms improve. They can also have adverse side effects, like stomachaches, headaches, and trouble sleeping. They aren't suited to everyone, and they don't stop the possibility of relapses. It's important to follow the instructions of a therapist when seeking treatment.
The most common treatments for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate and bupropion and Atomoxetine. A recent study showed that all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms more than a placebo for 12 weeks. But these studies did not study the effects over a longer period of time.
Self-help
If you have ADHD, it can be challenging to stay on top of things and complete tasks. It's easy for people to feel overwhelmed by family, work and the daily obligations. This can cause you to delay your work and struggle to meet deadlines and engage in impulsive behavior. You can live a more productive and successful life by addressing your ADHD.
You can also try self-help techniques to help manage your symptoms, along with medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which teaches you how to overcome negative thoughts and improve your mood can help. One technique that works well for those suffering from ADHD is to break down big goals into smaller goals. This helps reduce the fear of failure and boosts motivation.
Other self-help techniques include mindfulness meditation which can help you manage your impulses and increase your concentration. Deep breathing exercises can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety which is common among those with ADHD. You can practice this at home by sitting quietly 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 systems and helps to calm the brain.
It is important to create a network of family and friends who can help you through your challenges. You can locate an online or local support group that provides advice and guidance to adults suffering from ADHD. You can also try to find a therapist that specializes in adult ADHD and can give you tools for managing your symptoms.
It's normal for ADHD management to be a process that lasts for a long time. There will be some setbacks. But remember that seeking help is an indication of strength and with the proper strategies in place, you will be able to thrive at work, at home, and in relationships.
BetterHelp can help you find a licensed and certified therapist in your locality if you aren't sure where to start. Start in only 48 hours by taking a free assessment. The sooner you begin to address the needs of your company and the faster you'll see results.
Support groups
Many adults with ADHD struggle with the difficulties of living with their condition however they don't have to face these challenges on their own. Support groups are a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD and their families. In addition to providing emotional assistance, these groups can also provide information on treatments. However, it is essential to research the credibility of a particular group prior to joining. To verify the credibility of a group look for a social media account or website with an official icon.
The organization Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) offers in-person support groups across the United States. These groups provide advocacy support, networking, and information for people suffering from ADHD and their families. They also provide a directory of healthcare professionals who specialize in ADHD. ADDitude magazine is a national online magazine that provides information, tips and advice to people with ADHD.
Support groups help people with ADHD boost their self-esteem and their relationships can be improved by connecting them with other people who have the same experiences. Participants can also develop strategies for dealing with stress and share their struggles with other people. Some support groups are led by trained facilitators, while others are led by peer. Some of these groups could be offered by local mental health agencies and non-profit organizations. They may also offer financial assistance for those who are unable to afford it.
People with ADHD frequently have difficulties at school, at work, and in their personal lives. They miss appointments and are unable to complete tasks and make impulsive decisions that can be a burden for even the most compassionate coworkers or friends. Some adults have found that therapy and classes that concentrate on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution could significantly improve their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding an organization that supports ADHD in your area, call your physician or psychiatrist. They can refer you to an expert in mental health who is trained to treat ADHD. Some psychologists and doctors are also certified coaches who can assist you in establishing a plan for managing your symptoms.
Many adults with ADHD require a support group, in addition to counseling and medication. These groups can provide you with the tools you need to manage your symptoms so that you can lead an enjoyable and productive life.