How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the most effective way to treat adult adhd. It can involve individual talk therapy and medication management in addition to therapy for families or groups.
Individual talk therapy may help you resolve underlying emotional issues that may mask ADHD symptoms. This includes embarrassment about memory and planning issues, anger for missed deadlines, or impulsive decisions and conflict in relationships.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD may benefit from medications that enhance their ability to focus and pay attention. It also helps manage impulsive behavior. However, medications don't work for everyone and may result in unpleasant side effects like eating disorders or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skill training and medication is the best treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants boost brain activity in the areas that regulate attention and behavior in order to treat ADHD symptoms. These are the most common ADHD medication. They boost levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemicals. They are available in a short-acting version (methylphenidate) and the long-acting type (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, also known as Vyvanse). They can also reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. People with certain health problems like glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis, shouldn't use stimulants. People who have taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) in the last 14 days should not take stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed when stimulants don't work or cause unwanted adverse effects. They comprise atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree, which are all in the antidepressant class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They increase levels of norepinephrine which help to improve attention and impulse control. These drugs aren't as quick-acting as stimulants and can have negative effects such as sleepiness and a loss of appetite, but they don't carry the same risk of abuse or addiction 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 reduce the brain activity that causes hyperactivity, impulsivity, as well as disorientation among adults suffering from ADHD. They can also help with Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications take a few weeks to start working but they typically have less side effects than stimulants.
Some people who have ADHD and other mental disorders also benefit from taking an anti-depressant like lithium. These medications aren't the same as those used to treat depression or bipolar disorder however they can help with certain symptoms, including irritability and insufficient control of impulsive behavior. These drugs are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medications therapy is a powerful 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 be successful. This can include counseling for marriage and family therapy. You can also use it to treat other mental health issues like depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that gives patients methods to deal with their issues. This type of therapy concentrates on changing negative thought processes which can trigger negative behaviors. It also teaches people 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 between 45 and 50 minutes. It can be carried out in a group or a one-on-1 setting.
CBT can help people suffering from ADHD improve their executive functioning which is the ability to plan and manage tasks. It can also assist people to manage their emotions better. Another option to treat anxiety is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), which is a combination of CBT with meditation training. It can reduce the impulsivity, improve focus and improve executive function.
Many adults struggle to identify the symptoms of ADHD. They may think they are suffering from a learning disability, a mood disorder, or another mental health issue. Many times, they spend years trying to treat these conditions before getting diagnosed with ADHD. These false beginnings and other diagnoses can cause anxiety because people feel that they've been working to manage their ADHD symptoms.
The use of medication is beneficial for the majority of adults with ADHD However, they don't improve the severity of all symptoms. These medications can also cause negative side effects, such as stomachaches and headaches. They're not for everyone and they do not prevent relapses. It is essential to follow the guidelines of your professional when seeking treatment.
Adult ADHD is treated with amphetamines, bupropion, atomoxetine, and methylphenidate. In a recent research study, all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms over a 12-week period more than placebo. However these studies didn't look at longer-term effects.
Self-help
If you have ADHD, it can be difficult to stay on track and complete tasks. It's easy for you to become overwhelmed by work, family and everyday responsibilities. This can cause you to procrastinate, have trouble meeting deadlines and engage in impulsive behavior. Making steps to address your ADHD will allow you to live a an active and productive life and become more successful on the job and in your relationships.
In addition to medications, 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 help. Breaking big goals down into smaller goals is a method that works for people who suffer from ADHD. This reduces the anxiety of failure and boosts motivation to achieve your goal.
Meditation can also help improve your focus and control your impulsivity. Deep breathing exercises are beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety that is common among people who suffer from ADHD. You can practice this at home by relaxing in a quiet space 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, which calms the brain.
It is important to create a network of family and friends who will help you through your challenges. You can find an online or local support group that offers advice and guidance for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also find a therapist who is specialized in adult ADHD who can assist you to manage your symptoms.
Managing ADHD is a long process, and it's common to have some setbacks along the way. Remember that seeking treatment is a good sign. With the proper strategies, you will succeed in your relationships, at work, and at home.
BetterHelp can help you find an accredited and licensed therapist in your locality if you aren't sure where to begin. Start within 48 hours with a free assessment. The sooner you begin to address the requirements of your business more quickly you will begin to see results.
Support groups
Many adults suffering from ADHD have to face the challenges of living with the condition However, they don't have to confront these issues alone. Support groups provide a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD and their families. In addition to offering emotional support, these groups can also provide information on treatments. It is essential to verify the credibility of any organization prior to attending. To verify the authenticity of a group, look for a social media or website with a verified 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 and support, as well as information and networking for people with ADHD. They also provide a directory of health professionals who specialize in ADHD. In addition, ADDitude magazine, a online publication that is a national one, offers information, tips, and resources for people who suffer from ADHD and their loved ones.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD build their self-esteem and improve their relationships by allowing them to connect with other people who have the same experiences. Full Posting can also learn strategies for coping and share their experiences and successes with others. Some support groups are led by trained facilitators, while others are led by peer. Some of these support groups are offered by local mental health organizations or nonprofits, and some may have financial assistance programs available to those who aren't able to afford it.
People with ADHD have issues at work, in school and even in their private lives. They forget appointments and fail to complete their tasks and make impulsive decisions that can be a burden for even the most tolerant coworkers or family members. Certain adults find that classes and therapy that concentrate on conflict resolution and interpersonal skills can improve their lives.
If you're having trouble finding a support group for ADHD in your area, talk to your doctor or psychiatrist. They can refer to a mental health professional who is specialized in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors are also certified coaches that can work with you to develop an action plan to manage your symptoms.
In addition to medication and counseling many people with ADHD have success with an ADHD support group. These groups can provide you with the tools to manage your symptoms, to lead an enjoyable and productive life.