How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the best method to treat adult adhd. It could include individual therapy, medication management and therapy for families or groups.
Individual therapy can help you resolve emotional issues that can mask ADHD symptoms. These can include embarrassment with memory and planning issues, resentment for missed deadlines or impulsive decision making and relationship conflict.
Medication
Many people with ADHD may benefit from medications that enhance their ability to focus and pay attention, as well as control an impulsive behaviour. It is possible that medication will not work for everyone, and it can result in unpleasant side effects, such as loss of appetite or difficulty sleeping. The best treatment for ADHD is the combination of medication along with behavior therapy and training.
Stimulants treat symptoms of ADHD by enhancing activity in brain regions that regulate attention and behaviour. These are the most common ADHD medications. They increase the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Stimulants are available in the short-acting type (methylphenidate) and the long-acting type (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, or Vyvanse). They also help reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. People suffering from certain health issues, such as glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis, should not take stimulants. People who have taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) within the past 14 days shouldn't take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines are used when stimulants don't work or cause unwanted adverse side effects. They include atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree which are all part of the class of antidepressants called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They increase the levels of norepinephrine which improves the ability to focus and control impulses. These medications aren't as fast-acting as stimulants, and may cause negative effects such as insomnia and loss of appetite, but they don't pose the same risks of dependence or abuse as stimulants.
Other drugs, like Guanfacine and Clonidine are also part of the blood pressure drug class but have been approved to treat ADHD. They can reduce brain activity that causes increased impulsivity, hyperactivity, and distractibility among adults with ADHD. They also aid in Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications take several weeks to get started however, they generally have less side effects than stimulants.
Certain people with ADHD and other mental disorders also benefit from taking a mood stabilizer such as lithium. These aren't exactly the same as those used to treat bipolar disorder and depression however, they can help with some of the same symptoms, like anxiety and poor control of impulses. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
In addition to medications therapy can be a powerful treatment option for adults with ADHD. Therapy can improve relationships, reduce the risk of impulsive behavior and help develop skills to help those with ADHD achieve. This can include marriage counseling and family therapy. It can also be used to address other mental health problems like depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that teaches patients new methods to deal with their issues. This type of therapy concentrates on transforming negative thoughts which can trigger negative behavior. It can also help those with ADHD develop realistic expectations for themselves and for others. CBT is usually short-term, with sessions lasting 45-50 minutes. It can be carried out in a group or a one-on-1 setting.
CBT can enhance executive functioning in people with ADHD which is their ability to plan and organise tasks. It can also assist people to manage their emotions. 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, improve focus, and improve executive function.
Many adults have difficulty recognizing the symptoms of ADHD. They may think they are suffering from an intellectual disability, a mood disorder or other mental health issue. Many times, they spend long hours seeking treatment for these conditions before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and other diagnoses can cause frustration because people feel that they've worked to manage their ADHD symptoms.
Most adults with ADHD can benefit from medication However, not all symptoms can be improved. They can also cause adverse effects such as stomachaches, headaches and difficulty sleeping. In addition, they may not offer the same benefits to all people, and they can't stop any relapses. This is why it's important to seek out treatment from a therapist and follow their recommendations.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate and bupropion and atomoxetine. A recent study found that all of these drugs reduced ADHD symptoms more than placebo over the course of 12 weeks. However these studies did not examine the long-term effects.
Self-help
It can be challenging to stay on track and complete assignments when you have ADHD. It's easy for people to feel overwhelmed by family, work and everyday responsibilities. This can cause extreme procrastination, difficulty keeping deadlines on track, and even unpredictable behavior. Taking steps to treat your ADHD will allow you to live a more productively and achieve greater success on the job and in relationships.
In addition to medications, there are a number of self-help strategies you can employ to treat your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you to alter negative thought patterns and improve your mood. Breaking down large goals into smaller goals is a technique that works for people who suffer from ADHD. This helps to reduce the anxiety of failure and boosts motivation to accomplish your goal.
Meditation can also help improve your focus and control your impulsivity. Deep breathing exercises can also aid in reducing stress and anxiety, which are common for people suffering from ADHD. It is possible to practice this at home while listening to music or sitting in a quiet place. Take long, deep breaths through your nose. This technique stimulates the parasympathetic nervous systems and helps to calm the brain.
It is also important to create a supportive network of family and friends who understand your struggles. You can join an online community or a local support group that offers advice and guidance for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also try to find a therapist who specializes in adult ADHD and can give you the tools to manage your symptoms.
Controlling ADHD is a lengthy process, and it's normal to experience some setbacks along the process. Remember that seeking treatment is a positive indicator. With the right strategies, you can succeed in your relationships, at work and at home.
BetterHelp can assist you in finding a licensed and certified therapist in your locality if you are unsure where to begin. Take a free assessment and start in as little as 48 hours. The sooner you begin to address the needs of your company and the faster you'll get results.
Support groups
Support groups are an excellent source for those suffering from ADHD and their families. Support groups can be a great source of support for those suffering from ADHD and their loved ones. These groups not only provide emotional support, but also details on treatments. It is crucial to research the credibility of a group before attending. To confirm the legitimacy of a group, look for a social media 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 groups provide advocacy support, networking, and information for those suffering from ADHD and their families. They also offer a directory of health professionals who specialize in ADHD. Additionally, ADDitude magazine, a national online magazine, provides information, advice and other resources for those with ADHD and their families.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD increase their self-esteem and their relationships can be improved by connecting them to people who have similar experiences. The participants are also able to learn coping strategies and share their challenges and triumphs with others. Support groups are often run by trained facilitators while others are peer-led. 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 with ADHD frequently have difficulties at school, work, and in their personal lives. They miss appointments and are unable to complete tasks and make impulsive decisions that can be a burden for even the most tolerant coworkers or their friends. Some adults find that therapy and classes that are focused on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can significantly improve their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding an ADHD support group in your area, try reaching out to your psychiatrist or doctor. They can refer to an expert in mental health who specializes in treating ADHD. Some psychologists and doctors are certified coaches who help you develop an action plan to manage your symptoms.
Many people with ADHD can benefit from a support group in addition to counseling and medication. These groups can provide you with the here tools to manage your symptoms, to lead an enjoyable and productive life.