How to Treat Adult ADHD
When treating adult adhd an integrative approach is recommended. It can involve individual talk therapy, medication management, and family or group therapy.
Individual therapy can help you deal with emotional issues that can cover ADHD symptoms. This includes embarrassment over memory and planning issues, resentment over missed deadlines or impulsive decisions and conflicts with your partner.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from medications that enhance their ability to concentrate, pay attention and control an impulsive behaviour. The medication may not be suitable for everyone, and can cause unpleasant side effects such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. The best treatment for ADHD is a combination of medication as well as behavior therapy and training.
Stimulants treat symptoms of ADHD by enhancing activity in parts of the brain that regulate behaviour and attention. They are the most commonly used ADHD medications. They increase levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and 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 ease the symptoms of depression and anxiety. The use of stimulants is not recommended for people with certain health conditions, like glaucoma and advanced arteriosclerosis. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days should not take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medications are used when stimulants don't work or cause undesirable adverse effects. They include atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree which are all part of the antidepressant class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors. They increase levels of norepinephrine which help to increase attention and control of impulses. These medications aren't as rapid-acting as stimulants and may have negative effects such as insomnia and loss of appetite, but they don't carry the same risks of dependence or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, like Clonidine and guanfacine are part of the blood pressure class, but have been approved for use in treating ADHD. They reduce the brain's activity, which causes hyperactivity, impulsivity, as well as disorientation among adults suffering from ADHD. They can also help with tics and Tourette syndrome. Both drugs can take several weeks before they begin working, but have fewer negative effects than stimulants.
Certain people with ADHD or other mental illnesses also benefit from taking an anti-depressant like lithium. These drugs are not identical to those used to treat bipolar disorder or depression, but they help with certain symptoms, including irritability and insufficient control of impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy can be a beneficial treatment option for adults who have ADHD, in addition to medication. Talk therapy can aid in improving relationships, reduce the impulsive behavior, and help develop techniques that can help those with ADHD achieve success. This can include marriage counseling and family therapy. It can also be used to treat other mental health issues, such as addiction or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy that gives patients methods to deal with their issues. This type of therapy concentrates on transforming negative thoughts that can lead to negative behavior. It also teaches those with ADHD how to set realistic expectations both for themselves and their loved ones. CBT is usually short-term sessions that last 45-50 minutes. It can be done 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. Another option to treat anxiety is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) that is a combination of CBT with meditation training. It can reduce the tendency to be impulsive and improve executive function.
Many adults struggle to recognize the signs of ADHD. They may think they have a mental illness, like an anxiety disorder, a learning disability or other mental illness. They could spend years seeking treatment before they are diagnosed with ADHD. These false beginnings and other diagnoses can be frustrating because people believe that they have been working hard to control their ADHD symptoms.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication, but not all symptoms are improved. These medications can also cause adverse side effects like headaches and stomachaches. They don't work on everyone and they do not stop the possibility of relapses. It is important to follow the advice of a professional when seeking treatment.
Adult ADHD is treated by taking amphetamines and bupropion, atomoxetine and methylphenidate. A recent study showed that all of these medications reduced ADHD symptoms more than a placebo over the course of 12 weeks. The studies did not focus on the longer-term effects.
Self-help
It can be challenging to stay organized and complete assignments when you have ADHD. It's easy to feel overwhelmed with work, family, and other daily obligations. This can cause you to delay your work and struggle to meet deadlines and engage in impulsive behavior. You can lead more productive and a successful life by addressing your ADHD.
You can also try self-help techniques to manage your symptoms, in addition to medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that teaches you how to change negative thoughts and improve your mood, can help. Breaking down large goals into smaller goals is a method that works for people with ADHD. This reduces 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 reduce anxiety and stress that are common to people with ADHD. You can do this at home, relaxing in a quiet space or listening to music as you take slow, long breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique calms the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is also crucial to create a supportive network of family and friends who understand your struggles. You can locate a local or online support group that provides advice and guidance to adults suffering from ADHD. You can also find a therapist who is specialized in adult ADHD who can help you manage your symptoms.
Managing ADHD is a long process, and it's not unusual to encounter some setbacks on the process. Keep in mind that seeking treatment is a positive indicator. With the proper strategies, you will thrive in your relationships, at work and at home.
BetterHelp can help you find an accredited and licensed therapist in your area if you aren't sure where to start. You can take a free assessment and start in as little as 48 hours. The sooner you can address your needs, the quicker you'll see results.
Support groups
Many adults with ADHD struggle with more info the challenges of living with their condition, but they don't have to face these issues alone. Support groups can be a valuable resource for people with ADHD, and their families. These groups not only provide emotional support, but also details about treatments. It is crucial to investigate the credibility of a group prior to attending. Find a website or social media account that has a verified symbol to ensure 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 people with ADHD. They also provide a list of healthcare professionals that specialize in ADHD. Additionally, ADDitude magazine, a online publication that is a national one, offers information, tips, and resources for people who suffer from ADHD and their families.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD improve their self-esteem, and their relationships can be improved by connecting them with others who share similar experiences. Participants can also learn how to cope and share their experiences with others. Some support groups are run by qualified facilitators, whereas others are led by peers. Some of these groups could be offered by local mental health organizations and nonprofits. They may also offer financial aid for those who are unable to pay for it.
People with ADHD have issues at school, at work and even in their personal lives. They are prone to forget appointments, not complete tasks, and make unintentional decisions that annoy even the most patient friends or co-workers. Some adults find that classes and therapy that concentrate on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can significantly improve their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding an ADHD support group in your area, you can try contacting your doctor or psychiatrist. They can refer to a mental healthcare professional who is specialized in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors are also certified coaches that can work with you to develop a plan for managing your symptoms.
Many adults with ADHD require a support group, in addition to therapy and medication. These groups can help you manage your symptoms and live a more enjoyable, productive life.