How to Treat ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD get relief from medications. Stimulants, like amphetamine and methylphenidate, can boost and regulate the levels of certain chemicals in the brain.
Counseling can help you deal with the problems that ADHD causes at work, school and in relationships. Therapy can also teach family members how to support their loved ones.
Medicines
Many people, including adults and children, with ADHD benefit from medication to help improve their ability to focus, control impulses and plan ahead. These psychostimulants appear to increase and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They also help reduce the symptoms of ADHD in a short period of time.
There are several different kinds of stimulants approved to treat ADHD, including amphetamines (Dexedrine), dextroamphetamine-amfetamines (Adderall XR, Mydayis and Vyvanse) and methylphenidates (Concerta and Ritalin). Certain of these medications contain additional ingredients that reduce appetite and promote sleeping. These medications can cause several adverse reactions, such as loss of appetite as well as stomach upsets, insomnia, and weight loss. Before starting treatment, it is important to discuss the potential adverse effects with your physician.
Adults with co-occurring ADHD/substance use disorders are at greater risk of using stimulant medication than those who do not suffer from a mental illness. This is why it is crucial to work with your healthcare professional to align the characteristics of the various extended release stimulant medications to your individual needs. It is helpful to record the effects of the medication on your daily activities so that you and your healthcare professional can make necessary adjustments.
Adults can be treated with antidepressants and Wellbutrin, a medication that includes bupropion. These medications work by enhancing concentration by enhancing two neurotransmitters in the brain including norepinephrine (a stimulant) and dopamine (an antidepressant). These medications could be a viable option in the event that stimulants haven't worked or are too annoying or if there is an history of abuse.
Non-stimulant medications are also available for treating ADHD in adults, however they haven't been around as long as the stimulants. While they are generally considered to have a lower risk of side-effects like insomnia and agitation however, all medications carry risks. FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medication includes atomoxetine, (Strattera) Intuniv (guanfacine), Kapvay, (clonidine) XR and Qelbree.
Therapy can help your child or teach you how to manage ADHD symptoms, including anger, stress and frustration. Therapists can also teach you to set realistic goals and persist toward them, increase your ability to focus and control your impulsive behavior, and create better relationships. BetterHelp is an online service that connects you with licensed, reputable psychotherapists who can assist you with ADHD and other conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Counseling
If you suffer from adult ADHD, you can benefit from counseling services to assist you in managing your symptoms and live an improved quality of life. These services can include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and education about the disorder and learning skills to be more successful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of treatment that can be combined with medications to treat ADHD. CBT assists you in changing negative behaviors and thinking patterns that cause problems in your everyday life. It can also help improve your memory and focus and assist you in gaining better control over your emotions and impulses.
You may require marriage counseling or family therapy If your ADHD symptoms affect your relationships. Your therapist can teach you techniques to improve your communication and problem-solving. Additionally, your family members can also learn how to help you. adhd adults treatment can boost your self-esteem and increase your organizational skills to make you feel more confident. If you are having difficulty finding a therapist using a telehealth program like Talkspace. This online platform offers subscription-based mental health services that include therapy for ADHD and other ailments. You can communicate with a therapist via audio, video or via messaging. The company also provides a monthly plan that offers unlimited messaging with a guaranteed response from your therapist 5 days seven days a week.
Managing managing your ADHD requires patience and perseverance. Try setting reminders for your computer or phone in case you're having trouble remembering deadlines or appointments. If you're unable to manage your symptoms, speak to your doctor about medication or other treatments.
It's crucial to find a therapist that understands the particular challenges you face with ADHD. Be sure to choose one who has had experience working with adults suffering from ADHD and who you trust. A good therapist will possess a compassionate, nonjudgmental attitude and be willing to listen to your concerns. Avoid any therapist who doesn't make eye contact or doesn't listen to you with a keen ear.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders offers many resources to adults with ADHD. Its website features educational materials and also supports groups, webinars, classes, and a directory of professional specialists who specialize in the condition.
Self-help
Many people suffering from ADHD are able to make positive changes to their daily routines, learn to make use of their strengths and devise strategies to control their symptoms. These skills can help them function more efficiently, stay organized, and interact better with others. Some of these techniques can help reduce stress and improve their sense of self-worth. These self-help programs aren't instant fixes however, with time and effort they can reduce some of the most challenging aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is a popular option for treating adults with ADHD. It may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which assists patients understand and change unhelpful behavior patterns and thoughts. It can also address other mental health conditions such as depression and substance abuse. Family and marital counseling can also help loved ones cope with the difficulties of living with ADHD.
CBT is a well-researched treatment for adults with ADHD and can be used in combination with medication. It helps patients recognize and challenge negative thinking patterns, such as all-or nothing thinking, magnifying mistakes, and minimizing achievements. These thoughts can lead to procrastination, impulsive behavior, and trouble with interpersonal relationships. CBT can teach patients coping skills, such as goal setting, planning, and organizational skills.
Other strategies for dealing with adult ADHD include identifying and implementing healthy sleeping patterns, observing a regular schedule, and exercising. Sleeping enough can help improve focus and reduce irritability. Meditation can help improve emotional regulation and control of impulses. Recent research found that a cognitive behavioral approach combining mindfulness meditation training, CBT and interpersonal psychotherapy helped to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to be aware that ADHD can impact all aspects of your life including your professional and personal relationships. It can create problems with work, finances, school, and even family which makes it difficult to maintain a sense of self-worth. Additionally, it could lead to chronic stress and burnout and mood disorders, anxiety and sleep issues. These issues can increase your ADHD symptoms and impact your family, friendships and relationships. To overcome these challenges you should seek out the help of a specialist in ADHD.
Support groups
A support group is an excellent way to get acquainted with people who have ADHD. They provide a wealth of information and tips from those who have suffered from ADHD over many years. They also provide emotional assistance. Many support groups run by professional counselors who specialize in treating ADHD. Some are run by volunteers. There are virtual and online support groups.
When selecting a support organization it is important to choose one that is safe and reliable. You should look for a social media account that has been verified by the organisation. It is best to choose social media accounts that are associated with larger organizations you trust. You should also determine whether the group is peer-led or professionally managed. While peer-led groups can be effective but they might not have the resources or expertise to solve complex problems and challenges. A professional facilitator can provide guidance, structure and expertise that can enhance the quality of the group.
A few support groups provide a variety of activities and events such as meetings, workshops and webinars. They may also provide coaching services. These groups provide support and valuable information about medications and treatments. Many of these groups have a directory of local ADHD experts. You may also choose a group based on your interests if looking for specific support. For instance there are groups that focus on parenting ADHD children or for adults suffering from neurodivergence and ADD/ADHD.
It is also possible to talk with your family and friends about the diagnosis. It is also important to inform your supervisors and colleagues about your condition. This will help them understand your specific needs and help them to help you at work or school. In addition, you can ask them to make accommodations for your symptoms like making you work longer for specific tasks. This could be a significant step towards enhancing relationships with those who are closest to you. But, it is important to consult a licensed healthcare professional for the most accurate medical information.