Adult ADHD Treatment
Most adults with ADHD improve with a combination medicine, behavior strategies and lifestyle changes. Doctors will consider the health history of the patient and whether any other conditions like depression or anxiety, may contribute to the symptoms.
In most cases, stimulants are among the first drugs that people try. Other treatments include the nonstimulant Atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants in certain forms.
Medication
Adults with ADHD are often treated first by taking stimulant medication. These medications alter the levels of chemical messengers that control your attention in your brain. They are norepinephrine (the chemical messenger) and dopamine. Stimulants work by increasing the amount of norepinephrine present in your brain, which enhances concentration. They also decrease the brain's natural inclination for dopamine to be absorbed and reduces hyperactivity.
Medicines can help ease your symptoms and enable you to perform better at work, school or in other aspects of your life. However, they won't fix all your problems. You might experience negative effects like weight loss, irritability or sleep problems. Discuss with your doctor the possible adverse effects of any medication that you are prescribed.
The drugs used to treat ADHD for adults include both stimulants and nonstimulant drugs. Your doctor will recommend the correct dosage and medicine for you based on your individual situation, symptoms and medical history. Some people will not react to stimulant medications, while others may not experience any reaction at all.
There are three types of medications: immediate-release, extended-release medication and Atomoxetine. Immediate-release medications are available as needed. They typically peak 30 to 60 minutes after intake and then quickly wear off. Extended-release medications are consumed once each day and last up to 16 hours, aiding in reducing symptoms. Patients who take extended-release ADHD medications typically supplement them with an instant-release dose late in the evening or afternoon.
Atomoxetine which was the first nonstimulant medication approved to treat ADHD in adults, operates by limiting the actions of certain chemicals in the brain that control attention and mood. It is a longer-lasting drug that has a sustained release than other ADHD medication, like Bupropion (Wellbutrin) which works by increasing norepinephrine, and dopamine, within your brain.
Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine, clonidine, or other drugs that control the part of the brain that is responsible for your attention. These may be helpful for those suffering from ADHD who also have anxiety or tics. These drugs, also referred to as cholinergic drugs are only available with a prescription from your doctor or psychiatrist.
Therapy
In addition to medications therapy is often a part of an ADHD treatment program. Therapy sessions can help you and your family understand how your ADHD affects your relationships and life. It can also teach you strategies for coping and how to manage your ADHD symptoms.
A therapist can teach you methods to stay organized and in control of your surroundings. A therapist can teach you how to resolve conflicts and problem-solving and strategies to improve concentration and focus. You can learn yoga, breathing exercises meditation, or other relaxation techniques to help you settle down and improve your mood. This is also known as biofeedback and hypnotherapy.
A therapist can assist you to come up with strategies to deal with the behavioral and emotional issues that are common to adults with ADHD. For instance a therapist may offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a form of talk therapy that teaches you how your beliefs, thoughts and attitudes influence your feelings and behavior. CBT is particularly effective in dealing with executive functioning issues that are associated with ADHD which include difficulty in planning, organizing, and time management.
Another alternative is dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), which helps you change how you respond to difficult emotions. DBT includes elements like mindfulness, which helps you to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgement; emotion regulation, which is focused on managing emotional distress and the development of interpersonal skills. It is designed for people with multiple conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders.
Remember that it can take some time for the body to adjust to new medication. You might continue to have problems at home and work until you've developed enough skills to deal with your symptoms. In the meantime, consider making small changes to your routine to help you deal with.
For example, if you're impatient and forgetful, ask your professor or boss for accommodations that can assist you in achieving your goals in class. Similarly, you can request family members and friends to allow for your ADHD. You might also think about family therapy or marriage counseling, which will help your loved ones and you learn to communicate and understand each other's challenges.
Education
For adults, psychosocial treatments can reduce symptoms and improve the functioning. These treatments can include different therapies, and can be provided in person or via the internet. These treatments may be combined with medications to obtain the most effective results.
One of the first steps to treatment for ADHD is to obtain a diagnosis. A qualified mental health professional will utilize scales and semi-structured interviews to collect information about the individual's challenges. treat adhd in adults will then be able to provide an accurate diagnosis and formulate the treatment plan.
Talk therapy can help those with ADHD manage their problems and build the necessary skills to deal with them. Some of these therapies include psychoeducation, which educates patients about their condition and how it affects their work, school and relationships. Other therapies are focused on managing emotions and improving the ability to manage their time. Cognitive therapy for behavioral issues, for instance helps people recognize and alter negative beliefs and behaviors that may hinder their progress.
Family therapy and marriage can help address the challenges ADHD can bring to professional and personal relationships. It can help families and couples develop a better communication and identify the patterns that can cause conflicts. It can also assist them to explore ways to improve their communication and create a positive outlook for the future.
Behavioral therapy can help adults suffering from ADHD increase their self-esteem and develop a more realistic attitude about their abilities. It can help them learn to manage their money, time and their personal space, as well as manage their impulsive behavior and help them manage anger and stress. These skills can be mastered either in a group setting or through the help of a therapist.
Meditation or mindfulness training is a potent method of treatment for adult ADHD. It can help people focus on the present moment and become more aware of their feelings, helping them achieve a greater sense of control over their lives. It can be done in a group or with a therapist, and can be utilized in combination with other treatment methods, including CBT and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
Other options for treating adult ADHD include cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy, which focuses on building interpersonal skills. Certain people with ADHD utilize complementary health strategies to combat their symptoms, which includes diet changes and supplements. While these methods aren't scientifically proven to improve ADHD however, some find them beneficial.
Support
You may feel overwhelmed by your ADHD symptoms as an adult. Everything from paying bills to working to meet deadlines at work, managing relationships and maintaining your home can be a challenge when your ADHD symptoms get worse. The symptoms can also affect your self-esteem and make it difficult to know what's going on with you. It's important to seek treatment to help you overcome your challenges and live an active and productive life.
Many adults with ADHD find that medications are effective but they do not treat all symptoms or improve your quality of life. It is essential to get a treatment plan that is a combination of both for adults suffering from adhd, which includes both medication and therapy.
Therapy can help you understand and manage your ADHD symptoms and build strategies for coping. It can help you learn to manage your emotions, and relationships. Relaxation techniques can aid in reducing stress and increase your focus. You should also seek the support of your family and friends. Talk therapy can help you understand how to communicate better and manage anger and impulsive behavior.
There are several types of talk therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychotherapy for interpersonal relationships, and metacognitive therapy. CBT is a tried and tested method that helps you improve your strategies for coping and alter negative thinking patterns. Metacognitive therapy can help you improve your organizational skills, planning and time management. It can also help resolve mental distortions that can lead to negative moods and feeling that you have a limited number of options.
A recent study of a cognitive rehabilitation program for adults suffering from ADHD showed that the program, which comprised small group therapy sessions, coaching and exercises, improved quality of life and reduced symptoms (Stevenson et al 2002). This kind of therapy is typically cheaper than individual psychotherapy. It also lets you be a part of sessions with others who have similar challenges, which can be more supportive.
There are many online resources that can help you locate an adult adhd therapist or support group. Some of these sites offer virtual sessions via video chat or chatrooms as well as local meetings. These services are gaining in popularity, and research is being conducted to determine their effectiveness.