How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the most effective treatment for adult adhd. It can involve individual therapy, medication management and group or family therapy.
Individual therapy can help you resolve underlying emotional issues that could mask ADHD symptoms. These include embarrassment over memory and planning issues, resentment for missed deadlines or impulsive decision making and relationship conflict.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from medications that enhance their ability to focus and pay attention, as well as manage impulsive behavior. However, these medications aren't suitable for everyone and can cause unpleasant side effects like weight loss or difficulty sleeping. The most effective treatment for ADHD is the combination of medication along with behavior therapy and training.
Stimulants help treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing the activity in brain regions that control attention and behaviour. They are the most commonly utilized ADHD drugs. They boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two brain chemical substances. The stimulants are available in two types one of which is a short-acting (methylphenidate), and a long-acting (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate or Vyvanse). They can also reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. People suffering from certain health issues such as glaucoma, or advanced arteriosclerosis, shouldn't take stimulants. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days should not take stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs are prescribed when stimulants aren't effective or cause unacceptably adverse negative side adverse effects. They include atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree and are all in the antidepressant class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They increase levels of norepinephrine which help to improve attention and impulse control. These medications don't perform as quickly as stimulants and can trigger side effects such as anxiety and insomnia. However, they do not carry the same risk of addiction 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 decrease brain activity which leads to hyperactivity, impulsivity, as well as the tendency to be distracted in adults with ADHD. They also aid in tics and Tourette syndrome. Both medications can take several weeks before they start working however, they have less side-effects than stimulants.
People with ADHD and other mental disorders can benefit from taking mood stabilizers, like lithium. These medications aren't the same as those prescribed to treat depression and bipolar disorder however they can help with some of the same symptoms, including irritability and poor impulse control. These medications are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy can be an effective treatment option for adults with ADHD as well as medication. Therapy can help improve relationships, reduce impulse-driven behavior, and teach the skills needed to help people with ADHD achieve success. This can include marriage counseling and family therapy. It can be used to tackle other mental health problems like depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of therapy that involves talking in which patients are taught new strategies to manage their issues. This type of therapy concentrates on changing negative thought processes that can trigger negative behaviors. It also helps people with ADHD how to set realistic expectations both for their own family members and for those they love. CBT sessions are usually 45-50 minutes in length and are short-term. It can be conducted in a group or one-on-one setting.
CBT can help people with ADHD improve their executive functioning which is the ability to plan and organize tasks. It can also assist people to control their emotions. Another option for treatment is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) that blends CBT with meditation training. It can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive, improve focus, and enhance executive functioning.
Many adults struggle to identify the symptoms of ADHD. They might think they are suffering from a mental illness, for example, an anxiety disorder, a learning disability, or another mental condition. They may spend years seeking treatment before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternative diagnoses can cause frustration for those who believe they've worked hard around their ADHD symptoms.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from taking medication however not all symptoms can be improved. They can also have adverse effects such as stomachaches, headaches and difficulty sleeping. They're not for everyone and they do not stop the relapses. This is why it's important to seek treatment from an therapist and follow their recommendations.
The most common medications for adult ADHD are amphetamine-based, methylphenidate and bupropion and atomoxetine. In a recent research study, all of these medications decreased ADHD symptoms over a 12-week time period more than placebo. However these studies did not examine the long-term effects.
Self-help
If someone suffers from ADHD, it can be challenging to stay on top of things and complete tasks. It's easy to be overwhelmed by family, work and everyday responsibilities. This can lead to excessive procrastination, difficulty making deadlines, and an impulsive behavior. You can live a more productive and productive life by treating your ADHD.
In addition to medications, there are a number of self-help techniques you can employ to treat your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that teaches you how to change negative thoughts and improve your mood can help. One method that works for people with ADHD is to break down big goals into smaller ones. This helps reduce the fear of failure and increases motivation to accomplish your goal.
Meditation can also help you improve your focus and control your impulse control. Deep breathing exercises are beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety that is common among people who suffer from ADHD. It is possible to practice this at home, listening to music or sitting quietly. Take long deep, slow breaths through your nose. This technique calms the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is crucial to establish a community of family and friends who will support you in your struggles. There is an online community or local support group offering assistance and advice for adults suffering from ADHD. You could also locate a therapist who is specialized in adult ADHD and can provide you the tools to manage your symptoms.
Managing ADHD is a long-term process, and it's common to have some setbacks along the process. Keep in mind that seeking treatment is a positive sign. With the proper strategies, you will succeed in your relationships, at work and at home.
If you're not sure where to begin, BetterHelp can match you with a certified and licensed therapy provider in your region. You can take a free assessment and begin in as little as 48 hours. treating adults with adhd can address the needs of your company more quickly you will begin to see results.
Support groups
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle with the challenges of living with their condition, but they don't have to confront these issues alone. Support groups are a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD and their loved ones. They provide not only emotional support, but also provide information about treatments. However, it is important to research the credibility of a particular group prior to joining. Find a website or social media accounts that have an authentic symbol to confirm 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 groups provide advocacy and support, as well as networking and information for people suffering from ADHD and their families. They also offer a list of healthcare professionals who specialize in ADHD. Additionally, ADDitude magazine, a national online magazine, offers information, tips and other resources for those who suffer from ADHD and their loved ones.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD improve confidence in themselves and strengthen their relationships by allowing them to meet with others who have similar experiences. The participants can also learn coping strategies and share their challenges and successes with other people. Some support groups are run by qualified facilitators, while others are peer-led. Some of these groups are provided through local mental health agencies or non-profit organizations, and a few may have financial assistance programs for individuals who are unable to afford the cost of attending.
People with ADHD struggle at work, in school as well as in their private lives. They forget appointments and fail to complete their tasks, and make impulsive decisions that can be a burden for even the most tolerant coworkers or friends. Certain adults find that classes and therapy that focus on conflict resolution and interpersonal skills can help them live their lives more comfortably.
If you're having trouble finding an organization that supports ADHD in your area, contact your physician or psychiatrist. They may refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in treating ADHD. Some doctors and psychologists have been certified as coaches. They can help you create a plan for managing your symptoms.
Many adults with ADHD benefit from a support group in addition to medication and counseling. These groups can give you the tools you require to manage your symptoms to lead an easier and more fulfilling life.