How to Treat Adult ADHD
When it comes to treating adult adhd an integrative approach is recommended. It can involve individual therapy, medication management and group or family therapy.
Individual therapy can aid in resolving emotional issues that may mask ADHD symptoms. This can include embarrassment with memory and planning issues and resentment over late deadlines, impulsive decisions and conflicting relationships.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from medication that improves their ability to concentrate and pay attention. It also helps control the impulsive behavior. Medication may not work for everyone, and can result in unpleasant side effects, such as eating disorders or trouble sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skill training, and medication is the best treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants help treat symptoms of ADHD by enhancing activity in the brain regions that regulate behaviour and attention. They are the most frequently utilized ADHD medicines. They increase levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. The stimulants are available in two forms one of which is a short-acting (methylphenidate), and a longer-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They can also reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Stimulants are not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, including glaucoma and advanced arteriosclerosis. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days should not take stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed in situations where stimulants do not work or cause unacceptable negative side effects. They include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They increase norepinephrine levels, which improves attention and impulse control. These medications don't work as fast as stimulants and can result in side effects such as anxiety and insomnia. However they don't pose the same risk of addiction or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, such as Guanfacine and Clonidine, are in the blood pressure drug class, but have been approved to treat ADHD. They can slow brain activity that causes hyperactivity, impulsivity and distraction in people with ADHD. They also aid in tics and Tourette syndrome. Both medications can take a few weeks before they begin to work however, they have less adverse effects than stimulants.
Patients suffering from ADHD and other mental disorders can also benefit from taking mood stabilizers like lithium. These drugs aren't identical to those used to treat depression or bipolar disorder, but they help with some of these symptoms, such as irritability or poor impulsive control. These drugs are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy can be a beneficial treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD, in addition to medication. Talk therapy can aid in improving relationships, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and teach techniques that can help those with ADHD achieve success. Family therapy and marriage counseling are two examples. You can also use it to address other mental health issues like depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that provides patients with strategies for managing their issues. This type of therapy concentrates on changing negative thinking patterns which can trigger negative behaviors. It can also assist people with ADHD develop realistic expectations for themselves and others. 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 that is their ability to plan and manage tasks. It can also help people manage their emotions. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, or MBCT, is another treatment option that incorporates CBT and meditation training. It can reduce the impulsivity, improve focus and improve executive function.
Many adults are unable to recognize the symptoms of ADHD. They might think they are suffering from a mental illness, for example, an anxiety disorder, a learning disability or another mental disorder. Often, they spend many years trying to treat these conditions before getting diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternative diagnoses can result in frustration as people are convinced that they've been working for years to manage their ADHD symptoms.
Most adults with ADHD can benefit from medication, but not all symptoms improve. They can also trigger adverse side effects like stomachaches and headaches. They're not for everyone and they do not stop the relapses. It is important to follow the instructions of a therapy therapist when seeking treatment.
Adult ADHD is treated by taking amphetamines and bupropion, atomoxetine and methylphenidate. A recent study revealed that all of these medications reduced ADHD symptoms more than placebo over the course of 12 weeks. The studies did not focus on the long-term effects.
Self-help
It can be challenging to stay organized and complete assignments if you suffer from ADHD. It's not uncommon for people with ADHD to feel overwhelmed by work, family, and other daily obligations. This can cause you to delay your work and struggle to meet deadlines and engage in impulsive behaviors. Making steps to address your ADHD can help you live more productively and be more successful on the job and in your relationships.
You can also try self-help strategies to treat your symptoms in addition to medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you to alter negative thought patterns and improve your mood. One strategy that works for those suffering from ADHD is to break large goals into smaller ones. This decreases the fear of failure and increases motivation.
Other self-help techniques include mindfulness meditation, which can help you manage impulses and increase your concentration. Deep breathing exercises can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common for people suffering from ADHD. You can practice this at home, sitting quietly or listening to music while you take long, slow breaths through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system and helps to calm the brain.
It is also essential to create a supportive network of family and friends who understand your struggles. You can join an online community or local support group that offers guidance and advice for adults with ADHD. You can also find adult adhd diagnostic assessment and treatment a therapist that is specialized in adult ADHD who can help you manage your symptoms.
Controlling ADHD is a long process, and it's normal to have some setbacks along the way. But remember that seeking treatment is a sign of strength, and with the appropriate 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 you are unsure where to begin. Take a free assessment and get started within just a few hours. The sooner you can address your needs, the quicker you'll begin to see results.
Support groups
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle with the difficulties of living with their condition, but they don't have to deal with these challenges on their own. Support groups are a great source for those suffering from ADHD as well as their loved ones. In addition to providing emotional support, these groups may also provide information on treatments. However, it is essential to investigate the credibility of a group prior to attending. To verify the authenticity of a group, look for a social network 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 offer advocacy and support, as well as networking and information for people suffering from ADHD and their families. They also offer a list of healthcare professionals who specialize in ADHD. Additionally, ADDitude magazine, a national online magazine, provides news, advice, and resources for people who suffer from ADHD and their families.
Support groups help people with ADHD improve their self-esteem, and their relationships can be improved by connecting them to people who have similar experiences. Participants can also learn coping strategies and share their experiences and triumphs with others. Some support groups are led by qualified facilitators, while others are facilitated by peer. Some of these groups are offered by local mental health organizations or non-profit organizations, and some might have financial assistance programs for individuals who cannot afford to attend.
People with ADHD typically have trouble at school, at work as well as in their private lives. They forget appointments and are unable to complete tasks, and make impulsive decisions that can be a burden for even the most forgiving co-workers or their friends. Some adults find that therapy and classes that concentrate on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can improve their lives.
If you're having trouble finding an organization that supports ADHD in your area, talk to your physician or psychiatrist. They may refer you to an expert in mental health who is specialized in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors are also certified coaches who can help you develop an action plan to manage your symptoms.
Many adults with ADHD benefit from a support group in addition to therapy and medication. These groups can provide you with the tools you require to manage your symptoms, to lead an enjoyable and productive life.