Treating Adult ADHD
Adult adhd is treated using a combination of medication and counseling. These treatments help you learn new ways to cope and deal with emotional issues that are frequently related to ADHD.
Stimulant medications for ADHD boosts brain chemicals that control attention. They include the methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines like the lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Medication
For a lot of adults suffering from ADHD Treatment involves medication. It can help reduce symptoms and enhance performance at work, school and home. For some patients, it could also improve relationships and self-esteem. The medication used to treat adult ADHD is different from the medication used for children and the prescription is required. There are a variety of medications available, and it could take some trial and error to find one that works for you.
Treatments for adults with ADHD include stimulants as well as non-stimulant medications. The most commonly prescribed drug is methylphenidate which is an stimulant. However, this type of medication has some negative side effects, including headaches, heart palpitations and stomach problems. Modafinil, guanfacine, and clonidine are non-stimulant medications that have been proven to be effective in some adults. They have been studied less than stimulants, therefore their long-term efficacy and potential side effects are not well-known.
Adults with ADHD can also benefit from psychosocial treatments such as counseling and family therapy. Psychotherapy aids patients to comprehend their condition and also develop the ability to cope and solve problems. It can also improve relationships with friends, spouses and family members. Counseling can aid couples in improving their communication and help one another.
The use of medication and psychotherapy are both important components of a comprehensive management plan for adults suffering from ADHD. Both kinds of treatment are important to minimize the impact on daily activities of the disorder. To be eligible for an assessment of ADHD the symptoms have to be severe and cause significant impairment in a variety of areas of life. The impairment must be present since the time of childhood.
Psychotherapy for adult ADHD includes counseling, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as marital and family therapy. The therapy helps the patient recognize and change negative thinking patterns that can affect their interactions with other people. It can also teach patients how to manage ADHD and other mental illnesses like addiction or depression. Many communities and online provide support groups for those with ADHD.
Counseling
Many adults suffering from ADHD find that their symptoms can affect their work and personal relationships. They often feel they have no control over their lives, and that family members and friends aren't aware of their challenges. Counseling, or psychotherapy, can help manage these issues by addressing emotional issues and teaching life skills. It can also assist in treating co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that teaches you practical skills to manage your life with ADHD. It focuses on changing bad thinking patterns and improving control, which can improve problem behavior. CBT is also effective for those with multiple disorders like ADHD, depression or anxiety disorders.
CBT is more focused on the present than other types of psychotherapy that focus on the past. It helps you identify thoughts traps, or patterns of thinking that prevent you from moving forward with your goals and plans. Examples of this include all-or-nothing thinking and perfectionism, catastrophizing about the worst-case scenario, and self-blame and over-personalization. CBT includes communication skills training and relaxation skills training and exposure therapies to help reduce anxiety.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and interpersonal therapy are two other kinds of talk therapies that can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. DBT can teach important skills, including mindfulness which allows you to fully feel and accept your emotions, and emotional regulation, which is the ability to manage difficult emotions. In addition to these abilities, DBT also teaches practical strategies to manage stress and deal with everyday challenges. It can be offered in individual or group sessions, or via an online therapy platform.
Therapy for interpersonal relationships focuses on helping you develop meaningful relationships and resolve conflicts in your relationship. It can aid people with co-occurring ADHD and personality disorders such as antisocial disorder that is common among adults with untreated ADHD. It can also help with an impulsive personality, and difficulties in controlling emotions that are common symptoms.
The majority of people suffering from ADHD can be treated using medication alone However, there are some issues that cannot be eliminated. Combining therapy and medication coaching can result in an overall plan that improves the majority of your symptoms.
Education
ADHD treatment can include self-help techniques and education on the disorder. These techniques can help to reduce symptoms. Your health care provider may suggest websites, read more books or even people with had experience with the disorder. A support group can be an option for sharing experiences, knowledge and strategies for dealing with other people suffering from ADHD. These groups are available in a wide range of communities, as well as online.
The most effective treatment for adults with ADHD is a combination of medicine as well as behavior therapy and skills training. A lot of the same medications used for treating children are effective for adults. However, they might require a higher dose or taken at a different time. It is important to speak with your doctor about the medications you require to feel at your most optimal.
Psychotherapy helps patients understand and utilize their strengths. It helps them improve their organizing and planning skills, learn how to cope with the disappointments and mistakes and improve their relationships. Most psychotherapy approaches for ADHD adults involve the use of cognitive behavioral therapy designed to teach patients to alter their thinking and behavior to take better control over their lives.
Therapists for adults suffering from ADHD typically use marriage or family counseling, to help spouses and other loved ones to understand the disorder and the impact it can affect their relationship. Adults suffering from ADHD frequently complain about marital issues when seeking treatment. Couples blame each other when there are issues such as financial problems or inattention, or impulsivity. In an investigation, 81% of married couples interviewed said that their marital problems were caused by a comorbid drug addiction or depression (Hesslinger 2002).
It is easier to stay organized if you are aware of the effects ADHD can have on your brain. Schedule time every day to sort through your paperwork and organize your desk so that you're not distracted later in the morning. You can also give yourself more time to complete tasks or get to appointments than you think is important by setting an alarm on your phone or writing down the appointment 15 minutes earlier than it actually is.
Support
These symptoms aren't normal when you struggle to remember appointments, can't keep on top of tasks, or aren't able to finish projects at work or at home. They may be a sign of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While these traits can create stress in relationships and stifle productivity, you can take steps to improve your situation.
Your doctor could prescribe medication to treat brain chemical deficiencies associated with ADHD Counseling can help you learn how to manage your stress and develop organizational skills. Friends and family support can also be important.
ADHD is typically treated with stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines. Non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine can also be effective. When prescribing medication your doctor will consider the way you react to different medications, as well as any adverse effects that you may have or other health issues.
People with ADHD are generally advised to undergo cognitive behavior therapy. This structured counseling teaches you how to alter your negative thinking patterns and manage your behavior. It can also help you cope with the difficulties in your life and enhance your relationships.
Another form of counseling is called support group therapy. You can connect with other people who are facing similar issues and discuss strategies for dealing with these issues. It can also help you develop how to manage stress and organize yourself to apply in your daily life.
Lifestyle changes can also help you manage the symptoms of ADHD. A healthy diet, for example can help protect your mental and physical well-being. Avoid foods high in sugar, fat and processed ingredients. Take advantage of fresh fruits and vegetables. Exercise can be very helpful. It helps you remain calm and focused and reduces symptoms of ADHD.
Some people who suffer from ADHD benefit having a coach or mentor who can assist them in learning practical strategies to manage and improve their daily routines. This can be an addition to more formal psychological counseling and it could include learning how to set goals and learn time management techniques.
Online therapy is offered through BetterHelp for people who are unable to locate a counselor in their area. You can connect with a licensed therapist through video or voice call and in-app messaging at times that work for your schedule.