Treating Adult ADHD
Treatment for adult adhd requires a combination of medications and counseling. These treatments help you learn new strategies for coping and address emotional issues that are typically associated with ADHD.
Stimulant medications for ADHD boosts brain chemicals that control attention. They include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines like the lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Medication
For many adults with ADHD, treatment involves medication. treatment for adult add can help reduce symptoms and improve performance at work, school and at home. It can also boost relationships and self-esteem of some patients. The medication used to treat adult ADHD is different from the medication used for children and a prescription is required. There are many different medications available, and it could require some trial and error to find one that works for you.
Drugs that are non-stimulant or stimulant are used to treat adults with ADHD. The most frequently prescribed drug is methylphenidate, which is stimulant. However, this kind of medication may cause adverse effects, like heart palpitations, headaches and gastrointestinal problems. Modafinil and Clonidine, which are non-stimulant drugs, have been proven to be effective for some adults. These drugs have been examined less than the stimulants, therefore their long-term effectiveness and the side effects they cause aren't known.
Psychosocial treatments, such as counseling and family therapy are also essential in the treatment of patients with ADHD. Psychotherapy aids patients to understand their condition, and also develop strategies for coping and problem solving. It can also enhance relationships with friends, spouses and family members. Counseling can help couples improve their communication and help one another.
A comprehensive approach to managing of ADHD in adults involves psychotherapy and medications. Both types of treatment are important to minimize the impact on daily activities of the disorder. In order to qualify for the diagnosis of ADHD the symptoms must be severe and cause clinically significant impairment in several areas of life. The impairment must also be present from the time of childhood.
Adult ADHD is treatable with counseling, such as cognitive behavior therapy, as well as family and marriage therapy. The counseling helps the patient recognize and alter negative patterns of thought that can affect their interactions with other people. It can also teach patients how to manage ADHD and other mental disorders such as depression or substance abuse. Many online and community-based communities offer support groups for people who suffer from ADHD.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD frequently find that their symptoms interfere with their personal and professional relationships. They feel as if they don't have control over their lives and feel that their family and friends don't understand. Psychotherapy, or counseling can help manage these symptoms by addressing the root of emotional issues and teaching life skills. It can also help with co-occurring conditions, such as depression or anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of talk therapy that gives you practical knowledge to manage your life if you suffer from ADHD. It focuses on changing negative thinking patterns and improving self-control, which may help improve problematic behaviors. CBT is also beneficial for those suffering from co-occurring ADHD and anxiety or depression disorders particularly when used in conjunction with medication.
Unlike some forms of psychotherapy, which focus on resolving past traumas CBT focuses more on the present. It helps you identify thoughts traps or patterns of thought that prevent you from moving forward with your goals and plans. These include perfectionism and all-or-nothing thinking, which can lead to self-blame and catastrophizing worst-case scenarios. CBT also incorporates training in skills to promote relaxation and quiet the mind, training in communication skills, and exposure therapy to reduce phobias.
Other types of therapy that can be beneficial for adults with ADHD include dialectical behavior therapy, also known as DBT, and interpersonal therapy. DBT helps you develop important skills like mindfulness, which lets you fully accept and experience emotions, as well as emotion control, which is your ability to manage difficult emotions. DBT does not just teach these skills but practical strategies to manage anxiety and manage problems in everyday life. It can be provided through group sessions, individual sessions or an online therapy platform.
Interpersonal therapy is a method of helping you build lasting relationships and overcoming conflict in your relationships. It can help people with comorbid ADHD and personality disorders such as antisocial disorder, which is common in adults who have untreated ADHD. It can also aid in impulsivity and trouble regulating emotions which are common signs of these disorders.
The use of medications alone is effective in treating the majority of people suffering from ADHD however, they are not able to treat all symptoms in everyone. Combining medication with therapy and coaching can create an effective treatment plan that reduces the severity of your symptoms.
Education
ADHD treatment may include self-help strategies and education on the disorder. These techniques can help to reduce symptoms. Your health care provider can refer you to books and websites or to those who have experience in dealing with the disorder. A support group can be an option for sharing experiences, information and strategies to cope with others who have ADHD. They are available in a variety of communities as well as online.
The most effective treatment for adult ADHD is a combination of medicine along with behavior therapy and skills training. A lot of the medicines that are prescribed for children are equally effective for adults, however they may require a higher dose or need to be taken at a different time. It is important to discuss with your doctor your needs to feel your most optimal.
Psychotherapy helps patients recognize and use their strengths. It helps them improve their planning and organizational abilities, learn to deal with disappointments and failures, and improve their relationships. The majority of psychotherapy strategies for ADHD adults involve a cognitive behavioral therapy component designed to help patients modify their thoughts and behaviors so that they can take greater control of their lives.
Counseling for families and marriage is often used by therapists who treat adults with ADHD to assist spouses, children and other loved ones understand the condition and its effect on their relationship. Marital problems are common complaints of people with ADHD who seek treatment. Spouses often blame each other for the problems they face, such as financial difficulties as well as impulsivity, inattention, or. In one study, 81 percent of couples who were interviewed reported marital problems caused by comorbid depression and/or addiction disorders (Hesslinger and colleagues 2002).
It is easier to stay organized if you are aware of the effects ADHD can have on your brain. For instance, you can schedule a time each day to clear your desk and arrange your paperwork so you're not distracted later in the day. You can also try giving yourself more time than it is going to take to complete tasks and be on time to appointments by setting alarms on your phone or jotting down appointments fifteen minutes earlier than they are.
Support
If you don't remember appointments, have trouble keeping the track of your tasks, and you can't complete projects at work or home, those symptoms may not be normal. They may be a sign of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These issues can lead to stress and hinder productivity in relationships. However, you can improve your situation.
Your doctor may prescribe medication to treat brain-related chemical imbalances associated with ADHD Counseling can help you learn how to manage your stress and develop organizational skills. Friends and family support can also be crucial.
The stimulant drugs like amphetamines or methylphenidate are often used to treat ADHD and other non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine may also be effective. When prescribing medication, your doctor will take into account how you react to different medications, any side effects that you may experience, and any other health issues.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is usually recommended for people with ADHD. This structured counseling will teach you how to alter your negative patterns of thinking and how to manage your behavior. It will also help you deal with the challenges in your life and improve your relationships.
Support group therapy is a different type of counseling. You can meet other people who are going through similar issues and discuss how to deal with these issues. You can also learn strategies for coping and organization that you can apply in your daily life.
You can also control your ADHD symptoms by making lifestyle changes. A healthy diet, for instance can safeguard your physical and mental health. Avoid foods high in fat, sugar, and processed ingredients. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Exercise can be very helpful. It helps you remain focused and calm and can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD.
Some people who suffer from ADHD benefit from having a coach or mentor who can assist them in learning practical skills for organizing and improving their daily routines. This can be an addition to a more formal psychological therapy and could include learning about time management and how to set goals.
For adults who have difficulty finding a counselor in their area online therapy via BetterHelp is a viable option. You can connect to a licensed counselor via video or voice call, or in-app message at times that fit your schedule.