How to Treat Adult ADHD
When it comes to treating adult adhd, a holistic approach is best. It can include individual therapy, medication management and group or family therapy.
Individual therapy can aid in resolving emotional issues that could conceal ADHD symptoms. This can include embarrassment with memory and planning issues or resentment about delayed deadlines or impulsive choices and conflicts with your partner.
Medication
Many people with ADHD benefit from medications to help them pay attention, focus and manage their impulsive behaviors. However, these medications aren't suitable for everyone and may cause unpleasant side effects like weight loss or difficulty sleeping. The most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medications as well as behavior therapy and training.
Stimulants increase brain activity in areas that control attention and behavior in order to treat ADHD symptoms. They are among the most commonly utilized ADHD medicines. They boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine two brain chemical substances. They come in two forms that are short-acting (methylphenidate) and a long-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They can also reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. They are not recommended for people suffering from certain health conditions, such as arteriosclerosis and glaucoma. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days shouldn't take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines are used when stimulants do not work or cause unwanted adverse side effects. They include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They increase levels of norepinephrine, which aids to increase attention and control of impulses. These medications don't perform as fast as stimulants and can result in side effects such as insomnia and loss in appetite. However, they do not carry the same addiction or abuse risk as stimulants.
Other medications, such as guanfacine and clonidine, are in the blood pressure drug class, but they have been approved to treat ADHD. They reduce the brain activity which leads to hyperactivity, impulsivity, and distractibility among adults with ADHD. They also aid in tics and Tourette syndrome. Both drugs can take several weeks before they begin working however, they have less adverse effects than stimulants.
Certain people with ADHD and other mental illnesses can also benefit from an anti-depressant like lithium. These medications aren't the same as those prescribed to treat bipolar disorder and depression however, they can aid in the treatment of certain symptoms, such as anxiety and poor control of impulses. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy is a successful treatment option for adults who have ADHD in addition to medication. Therapy can improve relationships, reduce impulse-driven behaviors, and teach strategies to help those with ADHD succeed. This could include marriage counseling and family therapy. It can also be used to treat other mental health issues like substance abuse or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a kind of talk therapy that provides patients with methods to deal with their issues. This type of therapy focuses primarily on changing negative thoughts that can lead to negative behaviors. It also helps those with ADHD how to set realistic expectations, both for themselves and their loved ones. CBT sessions are usually 45-50 minutes in length and are short-term. It can be done in a group or one-on-one setting.
CBT can help improve executive functioning in those suffering from ADHD which is their ability to plan and organise tasks. It can also help people manage their emotions better. Another option to treat anxiety is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), which blends CBT with meditation training. It can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive and improve executive function.
Many adults have difficulty recognizing the symptoms of ADHD. They may believe they have an intellectual disability, a mood disorder, or another mental health issues. They could spend years seeking treatment before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and other diagnoses can cause anxiety because people feel that they have been working to manage their ADHD symptoms.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication, but not all symptoms improve. These medications can also cause negative side effects, such as headaches and stomachaches. Additionally, they don't offer the same benefits to everyone, and they do not prevent relapses. This is the reason it's essential to seek out treatment from a therapist and adhere to the recommendations of the therapist.
The most commonly used treatments for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate and bupropion, and Atomoxetine. A recent study showed that all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms more than a placebo over the course of 12 weeks. But, these studies did not examine the long-term effects.
Self-help
If someone suffers from ADHD it can be challenging to stay organized and complete tasks. It's easy to be overwhelmed by family, work and everyday responsibilities. This can lead to excessive procrastination, difficulty keeping deadlines on track, and even the tendency to be impulsive. Taking steps to treat your ADHD can help you live a more productive life and be more successful at work as well as in relationships.
In addition to medication, there are a number of self-help methods that you can use to manage your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can teach you to modify negative thinking patterns and improve your mood. Breaking large goals down into smaller goals is a technique that is beneficial for those with ADHD. This decreases the fear of failure and boosts motivation.
Other techniques for self-help include mindfulness meditation that can help you manage your impulsivity and increase your focus. Deep breathing exercises are also helpful in reducing stress and anxiety that are common among people who suffer from ADHD. You can practice this at home, relaxing in a quiet space or listening to music while you take long, slow breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which soothes the brain.
It is also important to build a support network of family and friends who understand your struggles. There is an online community or a local support group offering guidance and advice for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also locate a therapist who is specialized in adult ADHD and can give you tools for managing your symptoms.
Controlling ADHD is a long-term process, and it's not unusual to experience some setbacks along the process. But remember that seeking help is an indication of strength, and with the right strategies in place, you can be successful at work, at home, and in relationships.
BetterHelp can assist you in finding a licensed and certified therapist in your area if you are unsure where to begin. Start in 48 hours with a free assessment. The earlier you can address the needs of your business and the faster you'll get results.
Support groups
Many adults suffering from ADHD have to face the challenges of living with their condition however they don't have to face these issues alone. Support groups are a great resource for people with ADHD as well as their loved ones. In treatment of adhd in adults to offering emotional support, these groups may also provide information about treatments. It is important to check the credibility of any group before going to. Look for a website or social media account with 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 offer advocacy and support, as well as information and networking for people with ADHD. They also provide a directory of healthcare professionals who specialize in ADHD. ADDitude magazine is a national online magazine that offers information, tips and advice to those suffering from ADHD.
Support groups can help adults suffering from ADHD improve confidence in themselves and strengthen their relationships by helping them connect with other people who share similar experiences. Participants can also develop how to cope and share their struggles with others. Some support groups are led by certified facilitators, whereas others are led by peer. Some of these support groups are offered by local mental health organizations or non-profit organizations, and a few may offer financial assistance programs for those who aren't able to afford it.
People suffering from ADHD have issues at work, in school as well as in their personal life. They miss appointments and are unable to complete tasks and make impulsive choices that can be a burden for even the most forgiving co-workers or friends. Adults who are struggling find that classes and therapy that focus on conflict resolution and interpersonal skills can help them live their lives more comfortably.
If you are having trouble finding an ADHD support group in your area, you can try contacting your doctor or psychiatrist. They can refer to a mental health professional who is trained to treat ADHD. Some doctors and psychologists have been certified as coaches. They can help you create a plan for managing your symptoms.
In addition to medication and counseling many people with ADHD are able to benefit from a support group. These groups can help you manage your symptoms to live a healthier, more productive life.