Treating Adult ADHD
Treatment for adult adhd requires a combination of medication and counseling. These treatments teach new strategies for dealing with stress and assist you in managing emotional problems that often accompany ADHD.
Stimulant medications for ADHD increases levels of brain chemicals that regulate attention. These include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines, such as the lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Medication
For a lot of adults suffering from ADHD the treatment is medication. It can reduce symptoms and improve performance at school, work and home. For some patients, it can also improve relationships and self-esteem. Adult ADHD medications differ from those prescribed for children. A prescription is needed. There are many different medications available, and it could take some trial and error before you find one that works for you.
Non-stimulant and stimulant drugs are used to treat adult ADHD. Stimulants are the most effective and methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed drug. However, this type of medication may cause side effects, such as headaches, heart palpitations and stomach problems. Modafinil and clonidine, both non-stimulant drugs, have proven to be effective for some adults. These drugs haven't been extensively studied as stimulants, therefore their long-term efficacy and side effects are unknown.
Adults with ADHD may also benefit from psychosocial therapies like counseling for families and family therapy. Psychotherapy helps patients comprehend their condition and develop the ability to cope and solve problems. It can also improve relationships with spouses, friends and family members. Counseling can help couples improve their communication and help one another.
The use of medication and psychotherapy are both important elements of a comprehensive treatment plan for adults suffering from ADHD. It is essential for people to receive both types of treatments to minimize the impact of their condition on their daily life. To be eligible for an assessment of ADHD, the symptoms must be severe and cause clinically significant impairment in a variety of areas of life. Additionally the impairment must be present since childhood.
Adult ADHD can be treated with counseling such as cognitive behavioral therapy and family and marriage therapy. The therapy teaches the patient to recognize and modify negative thinking patterns that can affect how they interact with other people. It also teaches patients the skills needed to manage ADHD and other mental disorders like addiction or depression. Many communities and online offer support groups for those with ADHD.
Counseling
Many adults suffering from ADHD are aware that their issues can impact their personal and professional relationships. They often feel like they are in control of their lives, and that friends and family don't understand their challenges. Counseling or psychotherapy can help manage symptoms by addressing emotional issues and educating skills. It may also help address co-occurring disorders, like depression or anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that teaches practical strategies to manage your life when you suffer from ADHD. It focuses on changing bad thinking patterns and improving control, which can improve problem behavior. CBT can also be effective for those suffering from co-occurring ADHD depression, anxiety or disorders.
CBT focuses more on the present than other forms of psychotherapy which focus on the past. It helps you recognize the patterns of thought or thoughts that keep you from realizing your goals and plans. They include perfectionism and all-or-nothing thought patterns, such as self-blame and catastrophizing worst-case scenarios. CBT also incorporates training in skills to promote relaxation and calm the mind. training in communication skills, as well as exposure therapy to help reduce fears.
Other forms of therapy for talk that could be beneficial for adults with ADHD include dialectical behavior therapy, also known as DBT as well as interpersonal therapy. DBT teaches you essential skills, such as mindfulness which allows you fully to experience and accept emotions, as well as control of emotions which is the ability to manage difficult emotions. DBT teaches not only these skills, but practical strategies to manage stress and cope with problems in everyday life. It can be delivered in individual sessions, group sessions, or via an online therapy platform.
Interpersonal therapy is a method of helping you develop meaningful relationships and resolve conflict in your relationship. It is beneficial for those suffering from co-occurring ADHD with personality disorders, like antisocial personality disorder, which is observed in many adults with untreated ADHD. It can also help with impulsivity and trouble regulating emotions which are common signs of these disorders.
The majority of people who have ADHD can be treated using medication alone However, not all symptoms can be improved. Combining medication with therapy and coaching can create an entire treatment plan that reduces the severity of your symptoms.
Education
In addition to medications, ADHD treatment can include education on the condition as well as self-help strategies that can help reduce symptoms. Your health care provider may suggest books, websites or even people with experience dealing with the disorder. A support group is also an option to share experiences, knowledge and strategies to cope with other people who suffer from ADHD. These groups are available in a variety of communities as well as online.
The most effective method of treating adult ADHD is to combine treatment with medication, behavioral therapy, and life skills training. A lot of the same medications used to treat children are also effective for adults. However, adhd treatment in adults may require a higher dose or be administered at a slightly different time. It's important to talk with your physician about what you require to feel your most optimal.
Psychotherapy helps patients understand and use their strengths. It helps them develop better organization and planning skills, learn how to cope with the disappointments and mistakes, and improve their relationships. The majority of psychotherapy strategies for ADHD adults incorporate the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, which is designed to teach patients to alter their thinking and behavior to take better control of their lives.
Marriage or family counseling is often used by therapists for adults with ADHD to assist parents, spouses and other family members better know about the disorder and its effects on their relationship. Problems with marriage are common complaints of people who suffer from ADHD who seek treatment. Couples often blame one another for problems, such as financial difficulties and impulsivity, inattention or. In one study 81% of married couples interviewed had marital issues caused by depression comorbidity and/or addiction disorders (Hesslinger et al 2002).
It is easier to stay organized when you are aware of the impact ADHD has on your brain. Make time each day to organize your paperwork and tidy your desk so that you're not distracted later in the morning. You can also give yourself more time to complete tasks or to make it to appointments than you think is important by setting an alarm on your smartphone or jotting down the appointment 15 minutes earlier than it actually is.
Support
If you don't remember appointments, are having trouble keeping the track of your tasks, and you can't seem to finish projects at work or home, these signs may not be just normal. They may be a sign of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These traits can cause stress and hinder productivity in relationships. However you can make a difference to your situation.
Counseling can help you build strategies for coping and organizing. Your doctor might prescribe medication to treat mental health issues associated with ADHD. Family and friends can be a wonderful source of help.
ADHD is usually treated with stimulant medications like amphetamines and methylphenidate. Non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine are also effective. Your doctor will consider the way you respond to various medications, the side effects you may experience, and any other health conditions you suffer from when prescribing a medication.
People with ADHD are usually advised to undergo cognitive behavioral therapy. This structured type of counseling will teach you ways to control your behavior and change negative thinking patterns into positive ones. It can help you deal with difficulties in your life and improve your relationships.
Another type of counseling is called support group therapy. You can connect with other people who are experiencing similar issues and discuss ways to deal with the issues. It can also help you develop the skills of coping and organization to use in your everyday life.
You can also manage your ADHD symptoms by making lifestyle changes. A healthy diet, for example can help protect your physical and mental well-being. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, fat and processed ingredients and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Exercise can be extremely beneficial. It helps you remain focused and calm and reduces the symptoms of ADHD.
Some people with ADHD may benefit from having an instructor or coach who can teach them practical techniques to help them improve their daily routines. This could be in addition to a more formal psychological therapy and could include learning how to manage time and setting goals.
Online therapy is offered through BetterHelp for people who are unable to find a counselor near them. You can connect with a licensed therapist via video or voice call and in-app messaging at times that work for your schedule.