How to Treat ADHD
Many people with ADHD are able to get relief from medication. The stimulants, like methylphenidate and amphetamine, boost and regulate the levels of certain chemicals in the brain.
Counseling can help you deal with the difficulties ADHD causes at work, in school and in your relationships. Therapy can also teach family members how to help their loved ones.
Medicines
Many children and adults with ADHD benefit from medication to aid in their ability to concentrate, control impulses and plan ahead. These psychostimulants appear to regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They also can 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 medications have additional ingredients that help to reduce appetite and improve sleep. These medications can trigger many side effects, such as weight loss, stomach upset, insomnia and weight loss. It's important to discuss these issues with your doctor before beginning treatment.
Adults who have co-occurring ADHD or substance use disorders are at a higher risk of abusing stimulant medication than those without a mental illness. For this reason, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare professional to align the characteristics of the different extended release stimulant preparations with your specific needs. It can be beneficial to chart the effects of the medication on your daily activities so that you and your healthcare provider can make adjustments as necessary.
Medicines such as Wellbutrin (bupropion) and antidepressants are available "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults. These drugs target two neurotransmitters in the brain: norepinephrine as well as dopamine, both of which can improve concentration. They may be an appropriate treatment option in the event that you've tried stimulants but have found them to be ineffective or too bothersome, or if you have a history of substance abuse.
Non-stimulant medications are also available to treat ADHD in adults, but they've been around for not as long as the stimulants. They are generally associated with a lower risk of side effects like agitation and insomnia, but all drugs come with some dangers. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medications include atomoxetine (Strattera), Intuniv (guanfacine XR), Kapvay (clonidine XR) and Qelbree (viloxazine).
Therapy can teach you or your child techniques to deal with the symptoms of ADHD such as how to manage stress, anger and frustration. Therapists can teach you how to set realistic goals and stay on track in achieving them, increase your focus and control your impulsive behavior, as well as improve your interpersonal relationships. BetterHelp, add adult treatment that connects you with licensed and certified therapists, can help with ADHD, depression or anxiety.
Counseling
Counseling services can aid you in managing ADHD symptoms and live more successfully in adulthood. These services could include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) as well as information on the disorder, and developing skills to become more successful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one common method of treatment that can be paired with medication to treat ADHD. CBT helps you change negative patterns of thinking and behavior that can cause problems in your daily life. It can also help you improve your focus, memory, and even your mood.
You may need family therapy or marriage counseling if your ADHD symptoms impact your relationships. Your therapist will help you learn how to improve your communication skills and problem-solving. In addition, family members can also learn how to support you. CBT can improve your self-esteem, and boost your organizational skills to make you feel more confident. If you have trouble finding a therapist, consider using a telehealth provider like Talkspace. This online platform provides mental health services, including therapy for ADHD and other disorders. You can contact your therapist via video, messaging, or audio sessions. The company offers a monthly subscription with unlimited messages and a guaranteed response from your therapist, five every day.
Managing your ADHD requires patience and perseverance. Set reminders on your phone or computer in case you're having difficulties remembering deadlines and appointments. If you're unable to manage your symptoms, talk to your doctor about medication or other treatments.
It's important to choose a therapist who is aware of the unique challenges you face with ADHD. Choose an therapist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD and whom you trust. A good therapist should have an open and non-judgmental manner and be willing to hear your concerns. Avoid the therapist who isn't making eye contact or doesn't listen to you attentively.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders has many options for adults suffering from ADHD. The website has educational materials as well as support groups, webinars, and classes. There is also an index of professionals who specialize in the disorder.
Self-help
Many people with ADHD are able to make positive changes in their daily routines, and learn to use their strengths and develop strategies to control their symptoms. These abilities can help them work more efficiently, stay organized, and interact better with other people. Some of these strategies can also decrease daily stress and improve their sense of self-worth. These self-help services are not quick fixes but with time and practice, they can help reduce some of the most difficult aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is among the most commonly used treatments for adults with ADHD. It may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which assists patients recognize and alter harmful habits of thought and behavior. It can also address issues that are related to other mental health issues such as addiction to drugs or depression. Family and marital counseling can also assist family members cope with the difficulties of living with ADHD.
CBT is a successful treatment for ADHD for adults that can be used with medication. It teaches patients how to identify and overcome unhealthy patterns of thinking, like all-or-nothing thinking, focusing on errors, and downplaying accomplishments. treatment adult adhd can lead you to procrastination and impulsive behaviors, as well as problems with interpersonal relationships. CBT can teach patients how to cope, including goal setting, planning and the ability to organize.
Other strategies to cope with adult ADHD include keeping a routine and working out. A good night's rest can help increase focus and decrease the likelihood of irritability. Meditation can help improve the regulation of emotions and impulse control. Recent research found that a cognitive-behavioral approach that combines mindfulness meditation training CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, and mindfulness helped to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It is important to understand that ADHD affects every aspect of your life, including professional and personal relationships. It can cause problems with school, finances and work, as well as family. It can be difficult to maintain your sense of self-worth. It can also cause chronic burnout, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and sleep issues. These issues can exacerbate your ADHD symptoms and affect your family, friendships and relationships. You can seek out a therapist with ADHD expertise to assist you with these issues.
Support groups
A support group can be a great way to meet other people with ADHD. They provide a wealth of information and advice from people who have experienced ADHD over many years. They can also offer emotional assistance. Many support groups are run by professional counselors who specialize in treating ADHD. Some are run by volunteers. There are also online and virtual support groups.
It is important to select a group that is reliable and safe. Look for social media accounts that have been verified by an organization. It is best to choose social media accounts that are affiliated with larger organizations you can trust. It is also important to determine if the group is peer-led, or professionally facilitated. While peer-led groups can be effective, they may not have the resources or know-how to address complex problems and issues. A professional facilitator offers structure, direction and specialized knowledge to enhance the quality of the group.
Some support groups provide a variety of activities and events, such as webinars, workshops, meetings, and coaching services. These groups provide assistance and useful information on medications and treatments. Many of these groups also have an inventory of local ADHD experts. You can also choose a group based on your interests if seeking support for a specific issue. For instance there are groups that specialize in parenting ADHD children, or for adults with neurodivergence or ADD/ADHD.
In addition to joining a support group, you can also speak to family members and friends about the diagnosis. It is also advisable to inform your supervisors and coworkers about your illness. This will make them aware of your specific needs and help them to support you at work or school. You can also ask them to accommodate your issues by allowing you to have more time to complete certain tasks. This could be a crucial step in improving your relationships with those close to you. However, you should always consult a qualified healthcare professional for the most accurate medical information.