How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the best way to treat adult adhd. It can involve individual talk therapy and medication management, as well as therapy for families or groups.
Individual therapy can help you deal with emotional issues that could mask ADHD symptoms. This can include embarrassment with memory and planning problems, resentment over late deadlines, impulsive decisions and relationship conflicts.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD may benefit from medications that enhance their ability to focus, pay attention and control impulsive behavior. However, the medications don't work for everyone and may result in undesirable side effects, such as loss of appetite or trouble sleeping. A combination of behavior therapy, skills training, and medication is the best treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants increase brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention to treat ADHD symptoms. They are the most commonly used ADHD drugs. They increase the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. They come in two forms one of which is a short-acting (methylphenidate), and a longer-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They also help reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Stimulants are not recommended for those with certain health conditions, such as arteriosclerosis, glaucoma, and advanced. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days should not use stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed when stimulants aren't effective or cause undesirable side negative effects. They 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 increase attention and control of impulses. These medications aren't as fast-acting as stimulants and may have side effects including anxiety and insomnia, but they don't pose the same risk of dependence or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, like Clonidine and guanfacine are part of the blood pressure class, but have been approved to treat ADHD. They decrease brain's activity, which causes hyperactivity, impulsivity, and the tendency to be distracted in adults with ADHD. They can also help with Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications take a few weeks to begin working, but they usually have less adverse effects than stimulants.
Some people who have ADHD and other mental illnesses also benefit from taking a mood stabilizer such as lithium. These aren't exactly the same as those used to treat bipolar disorder and depression however they can aid in the treatment of certain of the same symptoms, such as anger and poor impulse control. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy is a successful treatment option for adults who have ADHD, in addition to medication. Talk therapy can aid in improving relationships, decrease impulsive behavior and teach the skills needed to help people with ADHD achieve success. This can include marriage counseling and family therapy. You can also use it to treat other mental health issues like addiction or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a kind of therapy that involves talking in which patients learn new strategies to manage their problems. This type of therapy focuses on changing negative thinking patterns that can trigger negative behaviors. It can also help those with ADHD learn to set realistic expectations for themselves and others. CBT sessions are typically 45-50 minutes in length and are short-term. It can be conducted in a one-on-one or group setting.
CBT can enhance executive functioning in people suffering from ADHD which is their ability to plan and organise tasks. It can also assist people to improve their control over their emotions. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), also known as MBCT is another treatment option that incorporates CBT and meditation training. It can reduce impulsivity and improve executive functioning.
Many adults struggle to recognize the symptoms of ADHD. They may think they have a mental illness, for example, an anxiety disorder, a learning disability, or other mental illness. In many cases, they have spent long hours seeking treatment for these conditions before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false beginnings and other diagnoses can be frustrating because people believe that they have been working to manage their ADHD symptoms.
The use of drugs is very effective for adults with ADHD, but they don't alleviate all symptoms. They can also have adverse effects such as stomachaches, headaches and difficulty sleeping. They aren't suited to all people and don't prevent the relapses. It is essential to follow the advice of a professional when seeking treatment.
Adult ADHD is treated with amphetamines, bupropion, atomoxetine and methylphenidate. adhd treatment in adults showed that all of these medications reduced ADHD symptoms more than placebo for 12 weeks. However 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 for you to feel overwhelmed with work, family and everyday tasks. This can lead to excessive procrastination, difficulty keeping deadlines on track, and even the tendency to be impulsive. You can live more productive and a successful life by treating your ADHD.
In addition to medication, there are a number of self-help methods you can employ to treat your symptoms. 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 decreases the fear of failing and boosts motivation.
Other techniques for self-help include mindfulness meditation, which can help you manage the impulsivity of your mind and improve your focus. Deep breathing exercises are helpful in reducing anxiety and stress which is common among those with ADHD. You can practice this at home by being in a quiet place or listening to music while you take slow, long breaths through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique helps calm the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is essential to build an extended family and friends that can assist you with your issues. You can locate an online or local support group that provides advice and guidance to adults with ADHD. You can also try to find a therapist that specializes in adult ADHD and can give you strategies to manage your symptoms.
It's normal for ADHD management to be a process that lasts for a long time. There will be setbacks. But remember that seeking help is an indication of strength and with the right strategies in place, you can thrive at work, at home, and in relationships.
BetterHelp can assist you in finding an accredited and licensed therapist in your area if are unsure where to begin. You can take a free assessment and get started in as little as 48 hours. The sooner you can address your needs, the faster you'll start to see results.
Support groups
Many people with ADHD have to face the challenges of living with their condition However, they don't have to deal with these challenges on their own. Support groups are a valuable resource for people with ADHD and their families. They provide not only emotional support, but also provide information on treatment options. However, it is important to verify the legitimacy of a group before attending. Find an official website or social media accounts that have a verified symbol to ensure 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 and support, as well as networking and information for people with ADHD and their families. They also offer a list of healthcare professionals who specialize in ADHD. ADDitude magazine is a national online magazine that offers information, news, and other resources to people with ADHD.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD improve confidence in themselves and strengthen their relationships by helping them connect with other people who have similar experiences. The participants can also learn strategies for coping and share their experiences and successes with other people. Some support groups are run by trained facilitators, while others are led by peers. Some of these groups may be offered by local mental health organizations and nonprofits. Some of them may also provide financial aid to those who cannot afford it.
People suffering from ADHD often have difficulty at school, work, and in their personal lives. They may forget appointments, not complete tasks, and make unintentional choices that frustrate even the most patient colleagues or friends. Certain adults find that classes and therapy that concentrate on conflict resolution and interpersonal skills can improve their lives.
If you're having trouble finding an organization that supports ADHD in your area, call your physician or psychiatrist. They can refer you to a mental health professional who is specialized in treating ADHD. Some doctors and psychologists have been certified as coaches. They can assist you to create a plan for managing your symptoms.
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from a support group in addition to counseling and medication. These groups can help you manage your symptoms to live a healthier, more productive life.