How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the best treatment for adult adhd. It can involve individual therapy, medication management and group or family therapy.
Individual therapy can aid in resolving emotional issues that could cover ADHD symptoms. This can include embarrassment with memory and planning problems, resentment over missed deadlines or impulsive decisions and conflicts with your partner.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medications that enhance their ability to focus and pay attention. It also helps manage the impulsive behavior. However, these medications aren't suitable for everyone and may cause undesirable side effects, such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. The most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medications along with behavior therapy and training.
Stimulants boost brain activity in areas that control attention and behavior to treat ADHD symptoms. These are the most popular ADHD medication. They increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine two brain chemicals. The stimulants are available in two forms: a short-acting (methylphenidate) and a long-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They also help reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. The use of stimulants is not recommended for those with certain health conditions, like arteriosclerosis and glaucoma. People who have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the past 14 days should not take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines are used when stimulants don't work or cause undesirable adverse 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 improve the ability to concentrate and control impulses. These medications don't work as quickly as stimulants and can trigger side effects such as anxiety and insomnia. However they don't pose the same risk of addiction or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, including clonidine and guanfacine, are in the class of blood pressure medications but have been approved to treat ADHD. They reduce the brain activity that causes hyperactivity, impulsivity, and disorientation among adults suffering from ADHD. They also can help with Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications take several weeks to start working, but they usually have less side effects than stimulants.
Patients 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 however they can aid in addressing certain symptoms, including anger and poor impulse control. These medications are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medications therapy can be an effective treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. Therapy can help improve relationships, reduce impulse-driven behavior, and teach techniques that can help those with ADHD achieve success. Family therapy and marriage counseling are two examples. It can also be used to deal with other mental health issues like depression or addiction to substances.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of therapy that involves talking in which patients are taught new strategies to manage their problems. This type of therapy concentrates on transforming negative thoughts which can trigger negative behaviors. It also teaches those with ADHD how to set realistic expectations both for their own family members and for those they love. CBT is usually short-term sessions that last 45-50 minutes. It can be done in a one-on-one or group setting.
CBT can help those suffering from ADHD improve their executive functioning, which is the ability to plan and manage tasks. It also helps people manage 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 struggle to recognize the signs of ADHD. They might think they have a learning disability, a mood disorder, or another mental health condition. They could go through years of seeking treatment before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternate diagnoses can lead to frustration for those who feel they've been working to overcome their ADHD symptoms.
The use of drugs is very effective for adults suffering from ADHD however they do not help the symptoms in all cases. These medications can also cause adverse side effects such as stomachaches and headaches. They aren't suited to everyone and they do not stop the relapses. This is why it's crucial to seek treatment from a therapist and follow the recommendations of the therapist.
The most frequently prescribed treatments for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, 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
It can be difficult to stay organized and complete assignments when you have ADHD. It's not uncommon for people with ADHD to feel overwhelmed by work, family, and other 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 a more productive life and become more successful at work and in relationships.
You may also try self-help methods to help manage your symptoms in addition to medications. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can teach you to change negative thought patterns and improve your mood. IamPsychiatry that works for those suffering from ADHD is to break large goals into smaller goals. This helps reduce the anxiety of failure and boosts motivation to accomplish your goal.
Meditation can also help you improve your focus and control your tendency to be impulsive. Deep breathing exercises can reduce anxiety and stress, which are common for people with ADHD. You can do this at home by relaxing in a quiet space or listening to music as you take long, slow breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system and helps to calm the brain.
It is essential to build a network of family and friends that can help you through your challenges. You can find an online or local support group that provides assistance and advice to adults with ADHD. You can also find a therapist who is trained in adult ADHD who can assist you to manage your symptoms.
It's normal for ADHD management to be a long-term process. There will be some setbacks. But remember that seeking treatment is an indication of strength, and with the proper strategies in place, you can be successful at home, at work and in relationships.
BetterHelp can help you find an accredited and licensed therapist in your locality if you are unsure where to begin. Start in only 48 hours by taking a free assessment. The earlier you address your needs, the quicker you'll begin to see results.
Support groups
Many people with ADHD struggle with the difficulties of living with their condition however they don't have to face these challenges alone. Support groups can be a great source of support for those suffering from ADHD and their families. They not only offer emotional support, but also details on treatments. It is crucial to verify the credibility of any group prior to going to. Look for an official website or social media account that has 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 groups provide advocacy support, networking, and information for people with ADHD and their families. They also provide a directory of healthcare professionals who specialize in ADHD. ADDitude magazine is a national online magazine that offers information, news, and other resources to those suffering from ADHD.
Support groups can 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 develop coping skills and share their experiences with other people. Some support groups are run by trained facilitators, while others are led by peer. Some of these groups are provided through local mental health agencies or non-profit organizations, and some might have financial assistance programs for individuals who aren't able to afford it.
People suffering from ADHD frequently have difficulties at school, work as well as in their private lives. They can miss appointments, neglect to complete tasks, and make impulsive decisions that can frustrate even the most patient colleagues or friends. Some adults have found that classes and therapy that are focused on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution could dramatically enhance their lives.
If you're having trouble finding a support group for ADHD in your area, contact your psychiatrist or doctor. They may 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 develop a plan to manage your symptoms.
Many adults with ADHD require a support group, in addition to therapy and medication. These groups can assist you in managing your symptoms so you can live a more enjoyable, productive life.