How to Treat Adult ADHD
When it comes to treating adult adhd, a holistic approach is best. It can involve individual therapy, as well as medication management as well as therapy for families or groups.
Individual therapy can help you overcome emotional issues that can cause ADHD symptoms. These include embarrassment about memory and planning issues or resentment about missed deadlines or impulsive decisions and conflicts with your partner.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are able to benefit from medications that enhance their ability to focus and pay attention. It also helps control an impulsive behaviour. It is possible that medication will not work for everyone, and it can cause unpleasant side effects such as loss of appetite or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skills training and medication is the most effective treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing the activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behaviour. They are the most commonly used ADHD drugs. They boost levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Stimulants are available in the short-acting version (methylphenidate) and the long-acting type (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They also help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The use of stimulants is not recommended for those with certain health conditions, such as glaucoma and advanced arteriosclerosis. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days shouldn't take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines are used when stimulants do not work or cause undesirable adverse effects. These include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants that are referred to as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They boost the levels of norepinephrine which help to increase attention and control of impulses. These medications don't perform as fast as stimulants and can trigger negative side effects, such as sleepiness and a loss of appetite. However, they do not carry the same addiction or abuse risk as stimulants.
Other medications, like the guanfacine and clonidine are part of the class of blood pressure medications, but have been approved for treating ADHD. They reduce brain activity that leads to excessive impulsivity, hyperactivity and disorientation in adults suffering from ADHD. They also aid in Tourette syndrome and tics. Both drugs can take several weeks before they begin working however, they have less adverse effects than stimulants.
People suffering from ADHD and other mental disorders can benefit from taking mood stabilizers, like lithium. These drugs aren't the same as those used to treat depression or bipolar disorder however they can help with certain symptoms, such as irritability and poor impulsive control. These medications are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy is a successful treatment option for adults who have ADHD, in addition to medication. Therapy can help improve relationships, reduce the impulsive behavior, and help develop the skills needed to help people with ADHD achieve success. This may 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 is a type of talk therapy in which patients learn new strategies for managing their issues. This type of therapy concentrates on transforming negative thoughts that 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 typically short-term in nature, with sessions lasting 45-50 minutes. It can be done in a one-on-one setting or in group therapy sessions.
CBT can improve executive functioning in those suffering from ADHD which is their ability to plan and manage tasks. It can also help people control their emotions. Another option for treatment is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) which blends CBT with 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 might think they are suffering from a mental illness, like a mood disorder, learning disability or another mental disorder. In many cases, they have spent long hours seeking treatment for these conditions before getting diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternative diagnoses can cause frustration, as these people are convinced that they've been here working to overcome their ADHD symptoms.
The use of drugs is beneficial for the majority of adults suffering from ADHD, but they don't help the severity of all symptoms. They can also trigger adverse side effects such as headaches and stomachaches. In addition, they don't suit all people, and they can't prevent any relapses. This is why it's crucial to seek treatment from a therapist and follow their guidelines.
The most commonly used drugs for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate and bupropion, and Atomoxetine. In a recent study all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms over a 12-week period more than a placebo. However, these studies did not look at longer-term effects.
Self-help
It can be difficult to stay on track and complete assignments if you suffer from ADHD. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by family, work and the daily obligations. This can cause you to procrastinate, have trouble meeting deadlines, and engage in reckless behavior. You can lead a more productive and happy life by addressing your ADHD.
You can also try self-help techniques to help manage your symptoms, along with medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a method of teaching you how to overcome negative thoughts and improve your mood, can help. Breaking down large goals into smaller goals is a technique that works for people with ADHD. This helps to reduce the fear of failure and increases motivation to accomplish your goal.
Other self-help techniques include mindfulness meditation, which can help you control impulsivity and increase your focus. Deep breathing exercises can aid in reducing stress and anxiety, which are common for people with ADHD. This can be done at home, listening to music or sitting quietly. Take long, deep breaths through your nose. This technique helps calm the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is important to create a community of family and friends who can support you in your struggles. You can join a local or online support group that provides assistance and advice to people suffering from ADHD. You can also find a therapist that specializes in adult ADHD and can provide you strategies to manage your symptoms.
It's normal for ADHD management to be a long-term process. There will also be difficulties. Keep in mind that seeking treatment is a positive indication. With the right strategies, you can succeed in your relationships, at work, and at home.
BetterHelp can help you find an experienced and certified therapist who is licensed and certified in your area if you aren't sure where to begin. You can take a free assessment and get started in as little as 48 hours. The earlier you address your requirements, the sooner you'll see results.
Support groups
Support groups are a great resource for those suffering from ADHD and their loved ones. Support groups provide a valuable resource for people with ADHD and their families. They provide not only emotional support but also information on treatment options. It is crucial to investigate the credibility of a particular group prior to joining. To verify the credibility of a group look for a social network 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 organizations provide advocacy, support, networking, and information for people suffering from ADHD and their families. They also provide a directory of healthcare professionals that specialize in ADHD. ADDitude magazine is a national online magazine that provides information, tips and advice to people with ADHD.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD improve confidence in themselves and strengthen their relationships by helping them be connected to other people who have similar experiences. The participants can also learn coping strategies and share their challenges and triumphs with others. Some support groups are led by certified facilitators, whereas others are led by peers. Some of these support groups are offered through local mental health agencies or non-profit organizations, and some may have financial assistance programs available to those who aren't able to afford it.
People suffering from ADHD struggle at school, at work, and even in their personal life. They can miss appointments, neglect to complete tasks and make impulsive decisions that annoy even the most patient colleagues or friends. Some adults find that therapy and classes that concentrate on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can improve their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding a support group for ADHD in your area, talk to your doctor or psychiatrist. They can refer you to an expert in mental health who specializes in treating ADHD. Some doctors and psychologists have been certified as coaches. They can assist you to make a plan to manage your symptoms.
In addition to medications and counseling, many adults with ADHD are able to benefit from an ADHD support group. These groups can help you manage your symptoms and live a healthier, more productive life.