How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the most effective way to treat adult adhd. It can involve individual therapy, as well as medication management, as well as therapy for families or groups.
Individual talk therapy may help you resolve underlying emotional issues that can cover ADHD symptoms. These include embarrassment about memory and planning problems, resentment over delayed deadlines or impulsive choices and conflicting relationships.
Medication
Many people who suffer from ADHD take medication to enhance their ability to pay attention, focus and manage impulsive behavior. However, medications don't work for everyone and may result in undesirable side effects, such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skills training and medication is the best option for ADHD.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity in areas that control attention and behavior to treat ADHD symptoms. These are the most common ADHD drugs. They increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemicals. Stimulants are available in the short-acting version (methylphenidate) and the long-acting form (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They also help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. People with certain health problems, such as glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis, should not take stimulants. People who have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in the last 14 days shouldn't take stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed in situations where stimulants do not work or cause unacceptably adverse negative side effects. These include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They increase levels of norepinephrine, which helps to increase attention and control of impulses. These medications don't perform in the same way as stimulants do, and they can cause adverse effects like anxiety and insomnia. However, they do not carry the same risk of addiction or abuse as stimulants.
Other medications, such as Guanfacine and Clonidine are part of the blood pressure drug class, but they have been approved for use in treating ADHD. They can slow brain activity that causes hyperactivity, impulsivity and distractibility in adults suffering from ADHD. They also aid in Tourette syndrome and tics. treatment for adults with add require a few weeks to begin working, but they usually have fewer side effects than stimulants.
Certain people with ADHD and other mental illnesses may also benefit from taking a mood stabilizer such as lithium. These medications aren't the same as those that treat bipolar disorder or depression however they can help with some of these symptoms, such as irritability or insufficient control of impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy is a successful treatment option for adults who have ADHD, in addition to medication. Therapy can help improve relationships, reduce impulsive behaviors and teach skills to help those with ADHD achieve. This can include counseling for couples and family therapy. It can be used to tackle other mental health problems like substance abuse or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that involves talking in which patients are taught new strategies to deal with their issues. This type of therapy focuses primarily on changing negative thoughts that can lead to negative behaviors. It also teaches people with ADHD how to set realistic expectations, both for themselves and their loved ones. CBT sessions are usually 45-50 minutes long and are short-term. It can be done on a one-to-one basis or in group therapy sessions.
CBT can help improve executive functioning in people suffering from ADHD which is their ability to plan and organise tasks. It can also assist people to manage their emotions. Another option for treatment is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) that blends CBT with meditation training. It can reduce impulsivity and improve executive functioning.
Many adults struggle to recognize the signs of ADHD. They might think they have a learning disability, a mood disorder, or another mental health issues. Often, they spend many years seeking treatment for these conditions before they are diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternative diagnoses can result in frustration as people feel they've been working for years to manage their ADHD symptoms.
The use of drugs is effective for most adults suffering from ADHD, but they don't help the symptoms in all cases. They can also trigger adverse side effects like stomachaches and headaches. They're not for everyone and they do not prevent relapses. It's important to follow the instructions of a therapy therapist when seeking treatment.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for adults with ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate and bupropion and atomoxetine. treatment for add in adults showed that all of these medications reduced ADHD symptoms more than placebo for 12 weeks. But these studies didn't examine the long-term effects.
Self-help
If you have ADHD, it can be difficult to stay organized and complete tasks. It's not uncommon for people with ADHD to feel overwhelmed by work, family and everyday tasks. This can lead to excessive procrastination, difficulty meeting deadlines, and the tendency to be impulsive. You can live more productive and a happy life by addressing your ADHD.
You may also try self-help methods to treat your symptoms, along with medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you to modify negative thinking patterns and improve your mood. Breaking down large goals into smaller goals is a strategy that works for people who suffer from ADHD. This reduces the fear of failure and increases motivation to accomplish your goal.
Meditation can help you improve your focus and manage your impulse control. Deep breathing exercises can also reduce anxiety and stress that are common to people with ADHD. It is possible to practice this at home, listening to music or sitting quietly. Take long, slow breaths through your nose. This technique stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and calms the brain.
It is important to create a community of family and friends who will support you in your struggles. You can join an online or local support group that can provide advice and guidance for adults with ADHD. You could also locate a therapist who is specialized in adult ADHD and who can offer you strategies to manage your symptoms.
Controlling ADHD is a lengthy process, and it's normal to encounter some setbacks on the journey. However, remember that seeking treatment is an indication of strength and with the appropriate strategies in place you can thrive at work, at home and in relationships.
BetterHelp can help you find an experienced and certified therapist who is licensed and certified in your area if you aren't sure where to begin. Start in the next 48 hours with a no-cost assessment. The earlier you address your needs, the faster you'll begin to get results.
Support groups
Many adults suffering from ADHD have to face the challenges of living with the condition, but they don't have to face these issues alone. Support groups are a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD and their families. These groups not only provide emotional support but also information on treatments. However, it is essential to investigate the credibility of a group prior to attending. Find websites or a 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 provide advocacy information, support, and networking for people with ADHD. They also provide a list of healthcare professionals that specialize in ADHD. In addition, ADDitude magazine, a online publication that is a national one, offers news, advice and information for people with ADHD and their families.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD boost their self-esteem and their relationships can be improved by connecting them with people who have similar experiences. The participants are also able to learn coping strategies and share their challenges and triumphs with others. Some support groups are led by trained facilitators while others are facilitated by peer. These groups might be offered by local mental health agencies as well as non-profit organizations. They may also offer financial aid for those who are unable to afford it.
People with ADHD frequently have difficulties at work, school as well as in their private lives. They miss appointments and fail to complete their tasks and make impulsive decisions that make it difficult for even the most tolerant coworkers or their friends. Some adults find that classes and therapy that focus on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can make a difference in their lives.
If you're having difficulty finding an ADHD support group in your area, you can try reaching out to your psychiatrist or doctor. They can refer to a mental health professional who specializes in treating ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors have been certified as coaches. They can assist you to create a plan for managing your symptoms.
In addition to medication and counseling, many adults with ADHD find success in support groups. These groups can give you the tools you need to manage your symptoms to lead an easier and more fulfilling life.