How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the best treatment for adult adhd. It could include individual talk therapy and medication management as well as family or group therapy.
Individual therapy can help you deal with emotional issues that could mask ADHD symptoms. These include embarrassment about memory and planning issues, resentment over missed deadlines or impulsive decisions and relationship conflicts.
Medication
Many people with ADHD benefit from medications to enhance their ability to focus, concentrate and manage their impulsive behaviors. However, the medications don't work for everyone and may result in unpleasant side effects like weight loss or difficulty sleeping. The most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medication, 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 medications. They boost levels of two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. Stimulants are available in the short-acting type (methylphenidate) and the long-acting version (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, also known as Vyvanse). They can also reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. People with certain health problems such as glaucoma, or advanced arteriosclerosis, shouldn't use stimulants. People who have taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) within the past 14 days should not be taking stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed when stimulants don't work or cause unwanted side effects. They include atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree which are all in the antidepressant class of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They increase norepinephrine levels, which improves the ability to focus and control impulses. These medications aren't as rapid-acting as stimulants, and may cause side effects including sleepiness and a loss of appetite however they don't carry the same risk for dependence or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, including the guanfacine and clonidine are in the class of blood pressure drugs however they have been approved for treating ADHD. They reduce the brain's activity, which causes hyperactivity, impulsivity, and distractibility among adults with ADHD. They also aid in Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications take several weeks to begin working however, they generally have less adverse effects than stimulants.
People with 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 depression and bipolar disorder, but they do aid in the treatment of certain symptoms, including anxiety and poor control of impulses. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medication therapy can be a powerful treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. Talk therapy can help improve relationships, decrease the impulsive behavior, and help develop the skills needed to help people with ADHD be successful. Family therapy and marriage counseling are two examples. You can also use it to address other mental health issues, such as depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a kind of therapy that involves talking in which patients learn new strategies to deal with their issues. This type of therapy focuses on changing negative thoughts which can trigger negative behaviors. It can also assist people with ADHD develop realistic expectations for themselves and others. CBT sessions are usually 45-50 minutes long and are usually short-term. It can be done in a group or a one-on-1 setting.
CBT can improve executive functioning in people with ADHD that is their ability to plan and organise tasks. It also helps people better control their emotions. Another option to treat anxiety is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) which blends CBT with meditation training. It can help reduce impulsivity, improve focus, and improve executive function.
Many adults struggle to recognize the symptoms of ADHD. They might think they are suffering from a mental illness, for example, an emotional disorder, a learning disability, or another mental condition. They could go through years of seeking treatment before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternate diagnoses can result in frustration, as these people are convinced that they've been working for years to manage their ADHD symptoms.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication however not all symptoms improve. They can also have adverse side effects, like stomachaches, headaches, and trouble sleeping. Additionally, they don't offer the same benefits to all people, and they can't stop relapses. This is why it's important to seek out treatment from an therapist and follow their recommendations.
The most frequently prescribed medications for adult ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate, bupropion, and Atomoxetine. In a recent study, all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms over a 12-week time period more than a placebo. These studies did not examine the longer-term effects.
Self-help
If someone suffers from ADHD it can be challenging to stay on track and complete tasks. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by family, work and the daily obligations. This can lead to extreme procrastination, difficulty keeping deadlines on track, and even impulsive behavior. Making the necessary steps to treat your ADHD can help you live more productively and achieve greater success on the job and in relationships.
In addition to medications There are a treating adhd and depression in adults variety of self-help techniques you can try to manage your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you to alter negative thought patterns and improve your mood. Breaking down large goals into smaller goals is a strategy that can help people who suffer from ADHD. This decreases the fear of failing and boosts motivation.
Meditation can also help improve your focus and manage your impulsivity. Deep breathing exercises can reduce anxiety and stress which are common among people suffering from ADHD. You can practice this at home, sitting quietly or listening to music while you take long, slow breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This method helps to calm the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is also essential to create a supportive network of family and friends who understand your challenges. You can join a local or online support group that provides assistance and advice to people suffering from ADHD. You can also try to locate a therapist who is specialized in adult ADHD and can provide you strategies to manage your symptoms.
It's normal for ADHD management to be a process that lasts for a long time. There will also be difficulties. Remember that seeking treatment is a strong indication. With the appropriate strategies, you'll be able to thrive in your relationships, at work, and at home.
BetterHelp can help you find a licensed and certified therapist in your area if aren't sure where to begin. Take a free assessment and get started in as little as 48 hours. The sooner you begin to address the requirements of your business and the faster you'll get results.
Support groups
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle with the difficulties of living with the condition however they don't have to deal with these challenges alone. Support groups provide a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD and their families. They provide not only emotional support, but also details about treatments. It is crucial to verify the credibility of any organization prior to going to. Look for a website or social media account that has a verified symbol to verify 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 provide advocacy, support, information, and networking for people with ADHD. They also offer a list of health professionals who specialize in ADHD. Additionally, ADDitude magazine, a national online magazine, provides information, tips and other resources for those suffering from ADHD and their loved ones.
Support groups help people with ADHD boost their self-esteem and their relationships can be enhanced by connecting them with other people who have the same experiences. Participants can also develop how to cope and share their struggles with other people. Some support groups are run by trained facilitators while others are facilitated by peer. These groups might be offered by local mental health agencies and nonprofits. Some of them may also provide financial aid for those who can't pay for it.
People suffering from ADHD struggle at work, in school, and even in their personal life. They may forget appointments, not complete tasks, and make unintentional decisions that can frustrate even the most tolerant of colleagues or friends. Certain adults discover that therapy and classes that are focused on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can make a difference in their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding an ADHD support group in your area, try reaching out to your psychiatrist or doctor. They can refer to an expert in mental health who is trained to treat ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors have been certified as coaches. They can assist you to make a plan to manage your symptoms.
Many people with ADHD can benefit from a support group, in addition to medication and counseling. These groups can help you manage your symptoms so you can live a happier, more productive life.