How to Treat Adult ADHD
When it comes to treating adult adhd the holistic approach is recommended. It could include individual talk therapy, medication management, and group or family therapy.
Individual talk therapy can help you overcome emotional issues that can mask ADHD symptoms. These can include embarrassment with memory and planning issues, anger for missed deadlines, or impulsive decision making and relationship conflict.
Medication
Many people who suffer from ADHD benefit from medications to help them concentrate, pay attention and control impulsive behaviors. However, medications don't work for everyone and can cause undesirable side effects, such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. The most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medication, behavior therapy and skills training.
Stimulants are used to treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing the activity in parts of the brain that regulate attention and behaviour. These are the most popular ADHD medication. They increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two brain chemical substances. Stimulants come in two forms one of which is a short-acting (methylphenidate) and a long-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They can also ease the symptoms of depression and anxiety. They are not recommended for those with certain health conditions, like glaucoma and advanced arteriosclerosis. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days shouldn't take stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed in situations where stimulants are not effective or cause unwanted adverse effects. They include atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree, which are all in the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors. They boost levels of norepinephrine, which improves attention and impulse control. These medications don't perform as quickly as stimulants and can trigger adverse effects like insomnia and loss in appetite. However they don't pose the same risk of addiction or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, such as Guanfacine and Clonidine are part of the blood pressure drug class, but they have been approved for use in treating ADHD. They can reduce brain activity which leads to hyperactivity, impulsivity, as well as distractibility among adults with ADHD. They can also help with Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications require a few weeks to start working however, they generally have less adverse effects than stimulants.
Certain people with ADHD or other mental illnesses can also benefit from a mood stabilizer, like lithium. These drugs aren't identical to those used to treat depression and bipolar disorder, but they do aid in the treatment of certain of the same symptoms, such as irritability 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 impulsive behaviors and teach skills to help people with ADHD succeed. Family therapy and marriage counseling are two examples. It can also be used to address other mental health issues, such as depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a kind of therapy that provides patients with strategies to manage their problems. This kind of therapy focuses primarily on changing negative thoughts that can cause negative behaviors. It can also teach those with ADHD how to set realistic expectations, both for their own family members and for those they love. CBT sessions typically last between 45 and 50 minutes long and are usually short-term. It can be carried out in a group or a one-on-1 setting.
CBT can help improve executive functioning in people with ADHD which is their ability to plan and organize tasks. It also helps people improve their control over their emotions. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), also known as MBCT, is another treatment option that blends CBT and meditation training. It can decrease the tendency to be impulsive and improve executive function.
Many adults are unable to recognize the signs of ADHD. They may believe they have a mental illness, for example, an anxiety disorder, a learning disability or another mental condition. They could spend years seeking treatment before they are diagnosed with ADHD. These false beginnings and other diagnoses can be frustrating because people believe that they've worked hard to manage their ADHD symptoms.
The use of medications is very effective for adults with ADHD however they do not improve the symptoms in all cases. They can also trigger adverse side effects like headaches and stomachaches. They don't work on everyone, and they don't prevent the possibility of relapses. This is why it's important to seek out treatment from a therapist and follow their recommendations.
The most common drugs for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based drugs, such as methylphenidate, bupropion and atomoxetine. A recent study revealed that all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms more than a placebo over the course of 12 weeks. These studies did not examine the long-term effects.
Self-help
When someone has ADHD, it can be difficult to stay on track and complete tasks. It's easy for you to feel overwhelmed with work, family, and other daily responsibilities. This can lead you to put off work and struggle to meet deadlines, and engage in impulsive behavior. Making steps to address your ADHD will allow you to live a more productively and become more successful on the job and in relationships.
In addition to medications In addition to medication, there are a myriad of self-help techniques you can try to manage your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can teach you to change negative thought patterns and improve your mood. One technique that works well for people with ADHD is to break down large goals into smaller goals. This decreases the fear of failing and increases motivation.
Other techniques for self-help include mindfulness meditation that can help you manage impulsivity and increase your focus. Deep breathing exercises can also reduce anxiety and stress that are common to people suffering from ADHD. You can do this at home by being in a quiet place or listening to music as you take long, slow breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique calms the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is also crucial to build a support network of family and friends who understand your challenges. You can find a local or online support group that can provide advice and guidance to people suffering from ADHD. You can also try to find a therapist that specializes in adult ADHD and can provide you the tools to manage your symptoms.
The management of ADHD is a lengthy process, and it's normal to encounter some setbacks on the journey. Be aware that seeking treatment is a strong indication. With the right strategies, you can succeed in your relationships, at work, and at home.
If you're not sure where to start, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed and reputable professional in your area. Begin in just only 48 hours by taking a free assessment. The earlier you address your needs, the quicker you'll start to begin to see results.
Support groups
Many adults with ADHD struggle with the challenges of living with the condition, but they don't have to face these challenges alone. Support groups can be a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD, and their families. They provide not only emotional support, but also provide information on treatments. It is crucial to verify the credibility of any group before attending. To confirm the legitimacy of a group, look for a social media or website that has an official 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 and support, as well as information and networking for people with ADHD. They also offer a list of healthcare professionals that specialize in ADHD. Additionally, ADDitude magazine, a online publication that is a national one, offers information, tips and information for people suffering from ADHD and their families.
Support groups help adults with ADHD improve their self-esteem, and their relationships can be improved by connecting them to others who share similar experiences. Participants can also learn strategies for dealing with stress and share their struggles with other people. Some support groups are run by qualified facilitators, while others are peer-led. Some of these support groups are offered through local mental health agencies or non-profit organizations, and some may offer financial assistance programs available to those who cannot afford to attend.
People suffering from ADHD have issues at work, in school as well as in their personal life. They miss appointments and fail to complete their tasks and make impulsive choices that can be a burden for even the most tolerant coworkers or their friends. Certain adults discover that therapy and classes that concentrate on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can improve their lives.
If you're having trouble finding an ADHD support group in your area, try calling your doctor or psychiatrist. They can refer you to a mental health professional who is trained to treat ADHD. Some psychologists and doctors are certified coaches who help you develop a plan for managing your symptoms.
Many people with ADHD benefit from a support group in addition to medication and counseling. These groups can provide you with the tools to manage your symptoms so that you can lead a happier and more productive life.