Effective Treatments For Adult ADHD
Many adults suffering from ADHD find relief from the symptoms of this condition by taking medication. However, medication is more effective when combined with other treatment methods.
Treatment for adults with ADHD typically includes stimulants as well as nonstimulant medicines. Certain medical conditions, like depression and high blood pressure could interfere with these medications.
1. Medication
The use of medication is a major part of treatment for ADHD and is a way of balancing neurotransmitters within the brain to reduce symptoms. The primary drugs are stimulants, which boost dopamine levels that are responsible for attention and thinking. Examples include amphetamines such as Adderall and Vyvanse or methylphenidate. Non-stimulant medicines, which increase dopamine levels but have a different chemical make-up are also available. These include Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Intuniv).
Stimulants start to work after 30 to 45 minutes and last between 3 and 6 hours. Many people with ADHD try out several medications over time to determine what works best for them. You should tell your doctor about any other health conditions you have and any medications you take, as they can interact with stimulants.
The symptoms of ADHD affect many aspects of life from relationships to work performance. They can cause feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. People suffering from ADHD frequently have difficulty completing projects or tasks, and may spend long periods of time on the same task before moving on to another, leaving unfinished work in their wake. They may also have trouble getting enough sleep and may be tired or irritable throughout the day.
When properly taken, stimulant drugs can improve the way people with ADHD function in school and at home. They can ease the burden at home, bring people closer to their families, and help them achieve their professional goals. Treatment isn't a panacea however it can make a huge difference. The first step is for those who suffer from ADHD to speak with their doctor or specialist. They will discuss the treatment options available to them and may recommend a mixture of treatments and medications.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a powerful treatment for ADHD. It helps you to examine and revise your negative thought patterns that hinder your self-regulation and productivity. Studies have shown that CBT can improve functioning and symptoms, especially when used in conjunction with stimulant medication. CBT is an orientated therapy that focuses on the moment. It differs from traditional psychoanalytic and psychodynamic therapies, which explore childhood traumas and experiences.
During therapy, you and your therapist will work together to identify and challenge distressing habits of thought that lead you to engage in unhealthy habits. You then develop strategies to replace these thoughts with more positive ones. Your therapist can also help with other issues that can affect your functioning, such as coexisting anxiety disorders or mood disorders, relationship difficulties as well as self-care and job performance.
If you're always late, your therapist could help you prioritize tasks and utilize a planner. They might also suggest that you be more cautious about being early, to ensure that you don't feel overwhelmed or bored waiting for something else to start. Other strategies include using a clock or watch, keeping clocks in your home and at work or jotting down your daily activities.
The goal is to make these tools a part of your everyday life, not just an effort to get rid of your ADHD symptoms. To achieve this, you'll require a seasoned therapist. Ask your doctor for a recommendation in case you don't know one. Check with your local medical centers colleges, universities, and the ADDitude Directory for therapists who specialize in ADHD.
There are also online programs that offer the option to practice the skills on your own while connecting you with coaches or therapists. These programs can be cheaper, but they may not offer the same level of assistance that a face-to-face session could.
3. Counseling
Many adults with ADHD struggle with their relationships and work because they fail to complete important tasks or make impulsive decisions. Therapy and coaching can aid in improving communication and provide strategies to deal with anxiety and frustration.
Marriage and family counseling is a solution to the issues that be created when a person suffering from ADHD is engaged or working at their job. This can lead to forgetting important obligations, financial difficulties or having difficulty with the responsibilities at home or at work. Therapy can also assist you and your partner or coworkers learn to communicate better so that you can deal with these issues more effectively.
Adult ADHD treatment typically includes a combination of medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, and counseling. The medication helps to manage the symptoms to allow you to focus on the task at hand, but other therapies offer more holistic approaches to improve your life.
It can take a while to locate an adhd specialist or therapist. But it's worth the effort to improve the quality of your life. Consult your primary care physician about getting a referral for an expert in mental health. They'll recommend a specialist who can treat your symptoms and offer counseling for you and your family.
You might be able to take part in a clinical trial that may offer new treatments for your symptoms. Clinical trials are research studies which examine ways to diagnose and treat, or prevent, illnesses. Talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of participating in a research study.
4. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy (OT) is a specialized treatment that helps people with ADHD overcome obstacles to achieving success in everyday life. It helps develop skills that enhance their quality of life and increase their ability to engage in meaningful activities within the context of work, school, home and social relationships. Studies have already proven that OT is a highly effective treatment for adults suffering from ADHD.
In addition to addressing symptoms as well as addressing their causes, an OT will concentrate on developing skills and developing strategies that aid in daily functioning, such as time management and the development of self-control. For instance, they could help people suffering from ADHD to break down their tasks into smaller parts and use visual aids to remind them of their responsibilities. They can also help them develop executive functional skills. These are cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, manage and complete the task, as well as make decisions and switch attention to other tasks.
Adults with ADHD often struggle with organizing their environment and personal belongings such as clothing, books and wallets. OTs can help the clients to create systems to keep their possessions organised and create routines to maintain the order. This can include using a planner, creating schedules, and using visual aids. The OTs can also assist clients understand the relationship between their mood and the amount they are exposed to sensory stimulation. They will then monitor their sensory diet in order to stay clear of stimulants.
OTs can also assist people with ADHD to learn to plan recreation/relaxation into their daily routines, even if it is only for 15 minutes. This will help them let go of their frustration and restlessness in a more appropriate manner, rather than transferring these emotions to relationships with others.
5. Behavioral Coaching
Coaching for behavior can be beneficial for adults with ADHD who need to address specific issues. adult adhd treatment might work with clients on topics like managing money and relationships, improving communication, reducing procrastination or improving academic performance. Coaches can also help educate clients on the neurobiological and genetic factors that contribute to ADHD. This information can help clients overcome the stigma that surrounds the condition and lessen self-blame that is often promoted in popular media.
A skilled ADHD coach can provide the structure and help necessary to make positive changes. They can guide the client through a process of reflection to identify what habits are beneficial or detrimental to their goals. They can teach the client how to modify their habits to improve their time management skills and help them develop the skills to reach their goals. A coach can provide guidance and support during the entire process.
It is essential for patients to be aware that their issues are normal. It may be that an expert is the only person who has recognized their condition. It can be a relief for them to know that their struggles are not due to their character weaknesses. This understanding could free individuals from blaming own faults and seek assistance.
A combination of medication and coaching can be very beneficial for people suffering from ADHD. The psychiatrist and the coach can work together to address various issues, including goal setting, prioritizing tasks motivation, organizational skills, motivation and problem-solving. Behavioral coaching can be helpful for stress, anxiety and controlling impulses. Coaching can aid in achieving goals in the field of education or work as well. The client can choose to continue with coaching or switch to a different kind of mental health professional.