How to Treat Adult ADHD
When it comes to treating adult adhd the holistic approach is recommended. It can involve individual therapy, medication management, and therapy for families or groups.
Individual therapy can help you overcome emotional issues that could cause ADHD symptoms. This includes embarrassment about memory and planning issues, resentment for missed deadlines, or impulsive decision-making and conflict with relationships.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from medication to improve their ability to concentrate, pay attention and control impulsive behaviors. The medication may not be suitable for everyone, and can have unpleasant side effects like eating disorders or trouble sleeping. The best treatment for ADHD is the combination of medication, behavior therapy and skills training.
Stimulants increase brain activity in the areas that regulate behavior and attention to treat ADHD symptoms. They are the most commonly used ADHD drugs. They boost levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. The stimulants are available in the short-acting form (methylphenidate) and the long-acting version (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They also help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. People with certain health problems like glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis, should not use stimulants. People who have taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) in the last 14 days should not be taking stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines are used in situations where stimulants do not work or cause unacceptably adverse side negative effects. They include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They increase the levels of norepinephrine which improves the ability to focus and control impulses. These drugs don't work in the same way as stimulants do and can trigger negative side effects, such as sleepiness and a loss of appetite. However, they do not carry the same risk of addiction or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, such as clonidine and guanfacine, are in the class of blood pressure medications, however they have been approved for treating ADHD. They decrease brain activity which leads to hyperactivity, impulsivity, and the tendency to be distracted in adults with ADHD. They also aid in tics and Tourette syndrome. Both medications can take a few weeks before they start working but they are less prone to side-effects than stimulants.
Some people with ADHD or other mental illnesses also benefit from taking a mood stabilizer, like lithium. These medications aren't the same as those used to treat bipolar disorder and depression however, they can aid in addressing certain of the same symptoms, like irritability and poor impulse control. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medications therapy is a powerful treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. Talk therapy can improve relationships, decrease impulsive behaviors and teach skills to help those with ADHD achieve. Family therapy and marriage counseling are two examples. It can also be used to deal with other mental health issues such as depression or addiction to substances.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a kind of talk therapy that gives patients methods to deal with their issues. This kind of therapy focuses on changing negative thinking patterns which can trigger negative behaviors. It can also help those with ADHD develop realistic expectations for themselves and for others. CBT sessions are typically 45-50 minutes in length and are short-term. It can be carried out in a one-on-one setting or in group therapy sessions.
CBT can help people suffering from ADHD improve their executive functioning, which is the ability to plan and organize tasks. It can also assist people to control their emotions. Another treatment option is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) which combines CBT with meditation training. It can help reduce impulsivity, improve focus, and improve executive functioning.
Many adults struggle to recognize the signs of ADHD. They may believe they have an intellectual disability, a mood disorder, or another mental health issue. In many cases, they have spent many years seeking treatment for these ailments before they are diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternative diagnoses can cause frustration for those who feel they've been working for years to manage their ADHD symptoms.
The use of drugs is very effective for adults with ADHD however they do not help all symptoms. They can also trigger adverse side effects such as stomachaches and headaches. They aren't suited to all people and don't prevent the possibility of relapses. This is the reason it's essential to seek treatment from a therapist and adhere to their guidelines.
The most commonly used drugs for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate, bupropion, and atomoxetine. treatment for adhd adults revealed that all of these medications reduced ADHD symptoms more than placebo over the course of 12 weeks. These studies did not examine the long-term effects.
Self-help
It can be challenging to stay focused and complete assignments when you have ADHD. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by work, family, and daily responsibilities. This can lead you to put off work and have difficulty meeting deadlines, and engage in impulsive behavior. Making steps to address your ADHD can help you live a more productive life and achieve greater success at work as well as in relationships.
In addition to medication, there are a number of self-help strategies you can try to manage your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a method of teaching you how to overcome negative thoughts and improve your mood, can be helpful. One technique that works well for those with ADHD is to break down large goals into smaller ones. This reduces the fear of failing and increases motivation.
Meditation can also help improve your focus and manage your impulsivity. Deep breathing exercises can also reduce anxiety and stress that are common to people with ADHD. You can do 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 technique stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and soothes the brain.
It is also essential to build a support network of friends and family who understand your challenges. There is an online community or local support group that offers guidance and advice for adults with ADHD. You can also find a therapist that specializes in adult ADHD and who can offer you strategies to manage your symptoms.
Managing ADHD is a long process, and it's common to have some setbacks along the journey. Be aware that seeking treatment is a positive indication. With the appropriate strategies, you'll be able to succeed in your relationships, at work and at home.
BetterHelp can assist you in finding an experienced and certified therapist who is licensed and certified in your area if you aren't sure where to start. Start in 48 hours with a free assessment. The sooner you address your requirements, the sooner you'll start to see results.
Support groups
Support groups are a great resource for those suffering from ADHD and their loved ones. Support groups are a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD and their families. They not only offer emotional support, but also details about treatment options. However, it is important to verify the legitimacy of a group prior to attending. Find an official website or social media account that has an authentic symbol to confirm 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 offer advocacy information, support, and networking for those suffering from ADHD. They also provide a directory of healthcare professionals that specialize in ADHD. ADDitude magazine is a national online magazine that provides news, advice and resources to people with ADHD.
Support groups help people 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 coping skills and share their experiences with others. Some support groups are run by certified facilitators, whereas others are peer-led. Some of these support groups are offered by local mental health organizations or nonprofits, and some may offer financial assistance programs available to those who are unable to afford the cost of attending.
People suffering from ADHD have difficulties at school, at work as well as in their private lives. They may miss appointments, neglect to complete tasks and make impulsive decisions that annoy even the most patient friends or co-workers. Some adults find that therapy and classes that focus on conflict resolution and interpersonal skills can make a difference in their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding an ADHD support group in your area, try calling your doctor or psychiatrist. They can refer you to a mental healthcare professional who specializes in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors are certified coaches who work with you to develop strategies for managing your symptoms.
Many people suffering from ADHD require a support group in addition medication and counseling. These groups can help you manage your symptoms to live a healthier, more productive life.