How to Treat Adult ADHD
When treating adult adhd, a holistic approach is best. It could include individual talk therapy and medication management, as well as therapy for families or groups.
Individual therapy can help you deal with emotional issues that could cause ADHD symptoms. These can include embarrassment with memory and planning issues, resentment for missed deadlines or indecisive decisions and conflict in relationships.
Medication
Many people with ADHD can benefit from medication that improves their ability to focus and pay attention. It also helps manage the impulsive behavior. However, medications don't work for everyone and may result in unpleasant side effects like weight loss or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skills training and medication is the most effective treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants help treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behaviour. They are the most frequently used ADHD medicines. They increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemical substances. Stimulants come in two forms that are short-acting (methylphenidate), and a long-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They also help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. The use of stimulants is not recommended for people suffering from certain health conditions, such as glaucoma and advanced arteriosclerosis. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days should not use stimulants.
Non-stimulant medications are used when stimulants do not work or cause undesirable 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 norepinephrine levels, which improves the ability to focus and control impulses. These medications don't work as quickly as stimulants and can trigger adverse effects like anxiety and insomnia. However they don't carry the same addiction or abuse risk as stimulants.
Other medications, including the guanfacine and clonidine are in the class of blood pressure medications however they have been approved to treat ADHD. They decrease brain activity which leads to increased impulsivity, hyperactivity, and disorientation among adults suffering from ADHD. They also aid in tics and Tourette syndrome. Both medications take several weeks to start working however, they generally have fewer side effects than stimulants.
Some people who have ADHD or other mental illnesses can also benefit from an anti-depressant like lithium. These drugs aren't the same as those used to treat depression or bipolar disorder however, they can aid in the treatment of some of these symptoms, such as irritability and poor impulsive control. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy is a successful treatment option for adults who have ADHD, in addition to medication. Talk therapy can help improve relationships, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and teach skills that can help people with ADHD be successful. This could include marriage counseling and family therapy. You can also use it to address other mental health issues, such as addiction or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of therapy that involves talking in which patients learn new strategies to manage their issues. This type of therapy focuses on changing negative thought processes which can trigger negative behaviors. It also teaches those with ADHD how to set realistic expectations both for themselves and their loved ones. CBT is usually short-term, with sessions lasting 45-50 minutes. It can be carried out in a group or one-on-one setting.
CBT can improve executive functioning in people suffering from ADHD which is their ability to plan and manage tasks. It also helps people control their emotions. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, also known as MBCT is a different treatment option that combines CBT and meditation training. It can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive and improve executive function.
Many adults struggle to recognize the signs of ADHD. They may believe they have a mental illness, for example, an emotional disorder, a learning disability, or another mental condition. Often, they spend long hours seeking treatment for these conditions before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternate diagnoses can result in frustration, as these people feel they've been working for years to manage their ADHD symptoms.
Most adults with ADHD can benefit from taking medication However, not all symptoms are improved. They can also trigger adverse side effects such as headaches and stomachaches. Additionally, they don't offer the same benefits to everyone, and they do not stop the possibility of relapses. This is why it's important to seek out treatment from a therapist and adhere to their recommendations.
Adult ADHD is treated by taking amphetamines and bupropion, atomoxetine, and methylphenidate. A recent study revealed that all of these medications reduced ADHD symptoms more than placebo over 12 weeks. The study did not look at the longer-term effects.
Self-help
It can be difficult to stay on track and complete assignments when you have ADHD. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by family, work, and daily responsibilities. This can lead to extreme procrastination, difficulty meeting deadlines, and impulsive behavior. Making the necessary steps to treat your ADHD will allow you to live a more productively and be more successful at work 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) that teaches you how to alter negative thoughts and improve your mood, can be helpful. One technique that works well for those with ADHD is to break down big goals into smaller ones. This helps reduce the fear of failure and boosts motivation.
Meditation can help you increase your focus and control your impulse control. Deep breathing exercises are also helpful in reducing anxiety and stress that are common among people who suffer from ADHD. You can practice this at home by sitting quietly or listening to music as you take long, slow breaths through your nose and out through your mouth. This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to calm the brain.
It is also important to create a supportive network of friends and family who understand your challenges. You can find an online community or local support group that offers guidance and advice for adults with ADHD. You can also locate a therapist who is specialized in adult ADHD and can provide you the tools to manage your symptoms.
Controlling ADHD is a long process, and it's not unusual to experience some setbacks along the journey. Be aware that seeking treatment is a good indicator. With the right strategies, you can succeed in your relationships, at work and at home.
If you're not sure how to begin, BetterHelp can match you with a certified and licensed therapy provider in your area. Begin in just treatments for adult add with a free assessment. The earlier you address your needs, the faster you'll start to see results.
Support groups
Support groups are an excellent source for those suffering from ADHD and their loved ones. Support groups are a great resource for people suffering from ADHD as well as their loved ones. In addition to providing emotional support, these groups may also provide information regarding treatment options. However, it is essential to research the credibility of a particular group prior to joining. Look for websites or a social media account that has 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 provide advocacy, support, information, and networking for people with ADHD. They also offer a directory of healthcare specialists who specialize in ADHD. Additionally, ADDitude magazine, a online publication that is a national one, offers information, advice, and resources for people with ADHD and their loved ones.
Support groups help adults with ADHD improve their self-esteem, and their relationships can be enhanced by connecting them with people who have similar experiences. Participants are also able to learn coping strategies and share their experiences and successes with other people. Some support groups are run by certified facilitators, while others are led by peers. Some of these support groups are offered through local mental health agencies or nonprofits, and some might have financial assistance programs for those who are unable to afford the cost of attending.
People with ADHD frequently have difficulties at school, work, and in their personal lives. They may miss appointments, neglect to complete tasks, and make impulsive decisions that annoy even the most patient friends or co-workers. Certain adults find that therapy and classes that are focused on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can help them live their lives more comfortably.
If you're having trouble finding an ADHD support group in your area, you can try contacting your doctor or psychiatrist. They can refer to an expert in mental health who is specialized in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors have been certified as coaches. They can assist you to create a plan for managing your symptoms.
Many people with ADHD can benefit from a support group in addition to therapy and medication. These groups can give you the tools to manage your symptoms to lead an easier and more fulfilling life.