How to Treat Adult ADHD
When it comes to treating adult adhd an integrative approach is best. It can include individual therapy, medication management, and group or family therapy.
Individual therapy can help you deal with emotional issues that can mask ADHD symptoms. These include embarrassment about memory and planning issues and resentment over delayed deadlines or impulsive choices and conflicting relationships.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are able to benefit from medication that increases their ability to concentrate and pay attention. It also helps manage their the impulsive behavior. However, the medications don't work for everyone and can cause undesirable side effects, such as weight loss or difficulty sleeping. The best treatment for ADHD is the combination of medication as well as behavior therapy and training.
Stimulants increase brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention to treat ADHD symptoms. These are the most common ADHD drugs. They boost levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemicals. The stimulants are available in the short-acting version (methylphenidate) and the long-acting form (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, or Vyvanse). They can also reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. People who suffer from certain health issues, such as glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis, shouldn't take stimulants. People who have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the past 14 days should not take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines are used when stimulants don't work or cause undesirable adverse effects. They include atomoxetine Strattera and Qelbree which are all antidepressants that are referred to as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They boost levels of norepinephrine, which increases attention and control of impulses. These medications don't perform as quickly as stimulants and can trigger adverse effects like sleepiness and a loss of appetite. However they don't pose the same addiction or abuse risk as stimulants.
Other medications, such as the guanfacine and clonidine belong to the category of blood pressure medications but have been approved for treating ADHD. They reduce brain activity that causes hyperactivity, impulsivity and distractibility in adults suffering from ADHD. They also aid in tics and Tourette syndrome. Both drugs can take several weeks before they begin to work, but have fewer adverse effects than stimulants.
Some people with ADHD or other mental illnesses also benefit from taking a mood stabilizer such as lithium. These aren't exactly the same as those prescribed to treat depression and bipolar disorder however they can help with some of the same symptoms, such as irritability and poor impulse control. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy can be an effective treatment option for adults who have ADHD as well as medication. Talk therapy can aid in improving relationships, reduce impulsive behavior and teach skills that can help people with ADHD succeed. This can include marriage counseling and family therapy. It can also be used to address other mental health problems like addiction or depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy that gives patients strategies for managing their issues. This type of therapy focuses on transforming negative thoughts which can trigger negative behavior. treating add in adults can also help people with ADHD develop realistic expectations for themselves and for others. CBT sessions typically last between 45 and 50 minutes long and are usually short-term. It can be conducted in a group or one-on-one setting.
CBT can improve executive functioning in those suffering from ADHD which is their ability to plan and organise tasks. It also helps people manage their emotions better. Another treatment option is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) that blends CBT with meditation training. It can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive, improve focus, and improve executive function.
Many adults are unable to recognize the signs of ADHD. They may believe they have a mental illness, such as an emotional disorder, a learning disability, or other mental illness. In many cases, they have spent many years trying to treat these conditions before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternative diagnoses can result in frustration as people are convinced that they've been working hard around their ADHD symptoms.
Most adults with ADHD can benefit from taking medication, but not all symptoms are improved. These medications can also cause negative side effects, such as stomachaches and headaches. Additionally, they don't suit everyone, and they do not prevent the possibility of relapses. It's important to follow the advice of a professional when seeking treatment.
Adult ADHD is treated with amphetamines, bupropion, atomoxetine, and methylphenidate. In a recent study all of these medications reduced ADHD symptoms over a 12-week period more than a placebo. These studies did not examine the longer-term effects.
Self-help
If someone suffers from ADHD it can be challenging to stay organized and complete tasks. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by work, family, and other daily tasks. This can lead to extreme procrastination, trouble keeping deadlines on track, and even impulsive behavior. Making steps to address your ADHD can help you live a more productive life and become more successful at work and in your relationships.
You can also try self-help strategies to help manage your symptoms, along with medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that teaches you how to alter negative thoughts and improve your mood can help. Breaking big goals down into smaller goals is a method that works for people with ADHD. This helps to reduce the fear of failure and increases motivation to reach your goal.
Other techniques for self-help include mindfulness meditation which can help you manage impulsivity and increase your focus. Deep breathing exercises are beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety which is common among those with 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 helps calm the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is crucial to establish a community of family and friends who can support you in your struggles. You can find an online community or local support group that offers assistance and advice for adults with ADHD. You can also find a therapist that specializes in adult ADHD who can assist you to manage your symptoms.
It's normal for ADHD management to be a lengthy process. There will be setbacks. Be aware that seeking treatment is a good sign. With the proper strategies, you will succeed in your relationships, at work and at home.
BetterHelp can help you find an experienced and certified therapist who is licensed and certified in your area if aren't sure where to begin. You can take a free assessment and get started in as little as 48 hours. The sooner you can address your needs, the quicker you'll begin to begin to see results.
Support groups
Many adults with ADHD struggle with the difficulties of living with their condition, but they don't have to deal with these challenges alone. Support groups are a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD and their families. In addition to offering emotional support, these groups may also provide information about treatments. However, it is essential to investigate the credibility of a group prior to attending. To verify the legitimacy of a group, look for a social media or website with an authentic 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 and support, as well as networking and information for people with ADHD and their families. They also offer a directory of healthcare specialists who 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 loved ones.
Support groups can help adults with ADHD boost their self-esteem and their relationships can be enhanced by connecting them with others who share similar experiences. The participants are also able to learn coping strategies and share their struggles and successes with other people. Some support groups are run by qualified facilitators, while others are led by peers. Some of these support groups are offered by local mental health organizations or nonprofits, and some may offer financial assistance programs for individuals who aren't able to afford it.
People with ADHD have issues at work, in school, and even in their personal life. They can miss appointments, fail to complete tasks, and make unintentional decisions that can frustrate even the most tolerant of colleagues or friends. Some adults find that classes and therapy that focus on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution can significantly improve their lives.
If you're having trouble finding an organization that supports ADHD in your area, contact your physician or psychiatrist. They may refer you to an expert in mental health who specializes in treating ADHD. Some doctors and psychologists are certified coaches who assist you in establishing an action plan to manage your symptoms.
Many people with ADHD require a support group in addition to therapy and medication. treating add in adults can assist you in managing your symptoms and live a more enjoyable, productive life.