Effective Treatments For Adult ADHD
Many adults with ADHD are able to relieve the symptoms of this condition by taking medication. However, medications are more effective when combined with other methods of treatment.
Adult ADHD medication usually contains stimulants as well as non-stimulants. Certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and depression could interact with these medications.
1. Medication
The use of medication is an important part of treatment for ADHD. It balances neurotransmitters and reduces symptoms. The primary drugs are stimulants, which increase dopamine levels that are responsible for attention and thinking. Examples include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines, such as Adderall and Vyvanse. Non-stimulant drugs, which boost dopamine levels but have different chemical composition, are also available and include Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Intuniv).
Stimulants start to work after 30 to 45 minutes, and last for 3 to 6 hours. adult adhd treatments who suffer from ADHD test different medications to find the one that works best for themselves. You should tell your doctor about any other health issues you suffer from and any medications you take, since they could interact with stimulants.
ADHD symptoms can impact all aspects of your life such as relationships and work performance. They can cause feelings of self-worth and inadequacy. People with ADHD may have difficulty completing tasks or projects. They may be able to spend hours on one task before moving onto another, and leave behind unfinished work. They may also have trouble sleeping well and feel groggy and irritable throughout the day.
When taken correctly, stimulant medication can improve how people with ADHD perform in school and at home. They can reduce difficulties at school, bring people closer together with their families, and aid them to reach their professional goals. Treatment isn't a cure-all however it can make a big difference. People suffering from ADHD should first consult their doctor or a specialist. They will discuss the options for treatment available to them and may suggest a mix of therapies and medications.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is an effective treatment for ADHD. It helps you examine and alter your negative thought patterns that hinder your self-regulation and productivity. Research has shown that CBT can improve symptoms and functioning, especially when it is combined with stimulant medications. Contrary to traditional psychoanalytic or psychodynamic treatments that focus on traumas and childhood experiences, CBT is goal-oriented and is focused on the present.
In therapy sessions the therapist and you collaborate to pinpoint and confront the thoughts that keep you trapped in unhealthy habits. You will then devise strategies to replace these thoughts with more helpful ones. Your therapist may also assist with other issues that affect your performance, like coexisting anxiety disorders or relationship issues, mood disorders working, self-care and other issues.
For instance, if you're always running late, your therapist may instruct you to prioritize your tasks and use a calendar. They may also suggest that you arrive early so that you aren't stressed or bored waiting for things to start. Other strategies include using a watch or clock watch, putting clocks in your home and at work or jotting down your every day activities.
It is important to not use these tools to treat ADHD symptoms, but also to make them a part of your everyday life. However, for this to happen you'll have to find a therapist who is reliable. If you don't know one consult your physician for an appointment. Visit local medical centers colleges, as well as the ADDitude Directory to find therapists who specialize in ADHD.
You can also find online programs that let you work on your skills on own, while connecting you with a coach or therapist. These programs are more affordable, but they also might not provide the same level of support as a face-to-face session would.
3. Counseling
Many adults with ADHD have difficulty in their work and relationships because they are unable to remember important details or make impulsive decisions. Coaching and therapy can aid in improving communication and provide strategies to deal with stress and frustration.
Family therapy and marriage therapy address the issues that can arise when a person who suffers from ADHD is in a relationship with someone or working. This can lead to not paying attention to important obligations, financial difficulties, or trouble with responsibilities at home or work. Therapy can also assist you and your coworkers or partners improve your communication skills to help you deal with these issues more effectively.
Adult ADHD is typically treated with the use of a combination of medications and cognitive behavioral therapy and counseling. The medication helps you control the symptoms, so you can focus on the task at hand. However, the other therapies offer more holistic ways to improve your life.
If you suffer from adult adhd, it could require some time to locate a therapist or coach who specializes in treating the disorder. It's a worthwhile effort to improve your quality of life. Consult your primary care doctor for a referral to a mental health professional. They'll recommend a specialist who can treat your symptoms and provide guidance for you and your family.
You could be eligible to take part in a study which offers new solutions to your symptoms. Clinical trials are research studies that look at ways to prevent, diagnose or treat diseases and conditions. Speak to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking part in a study.
4. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a form of treatment that is individualized to the individual and helps those with ADHD overcome challenges in their daily lives. It helps develop skills that improve their lives and improve their ability to participate in meaningful activities in the contexts of work, school and home, as well as social connections. Studies are already showing that OT is a successful treatment for adults suffering from ADHD.
In addition to addressing symptoms as well as addressing their causes, an OT will also focus on enhancing skills and developing strategies that aid in daily functioning, such as time management and the development of self-control. They can, for instance help people suffering from ADHD how to break tasks down into smaller chunks and use visual aids to remind them of their obligations. They can also help them with the development of executive functional skills which are the cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan and manage tasks and to make decisions and shift their attention to other tasks.
Adults with ADHD often have trouble organizing their personal and physical items like wallets, books and clothes. OTs can help the clients to create systems to manage their belongings and establish routines to maintain order. This can include using visual aids, making schedules and utilizing planners. OTs can also help clients understand the relationship between their mood and how much they are exposed to sensory stimulation. They can then monitor their intake of sensory stimuli to avoid 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 release restless energy and frustration in a more effective manner, rather than transferring these emotions to relationships with other people.
5. Behavioral Coaching
Behavioral coaching is a great option for adults with ADHD who have to deal with specific issues. A coach may assist clients with issues such as managing money as well as building relationships and reducing procrastination, or improving academic performance. Coaches may also educate clients about the neurobiological and genetic factors that cause ADHD. This information can help clients overcome the stigma that is associated with ADHD, as well as the self-blame often portrayed by popular media.
A competent ADHD coach can provide the help and structure needed to implement changes. They can guide their clients through a reflection process to identify the behaviors that can be beneficial or detrimental to achieving their goals. They can teach the client how to change their behavior to improve time management and build the skills to reach their goals. A coach can offer encouragement and support throughout the process.
It's important for clients to know that their symptoms are normal. It could be that an expert is the only person who has ever recognized their condition. It could be a relief for them to realize that their issues are not due to their character weaknesses. This newfound understanding can also allow individuals from blame and to seek help.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from a combination of medication and coaching. The psychiatrist and coach may collaborate to tackle various issues, including goals, prioritizing tasks and motivation, as well as organizational skills and problem-solving. Behavioral coaching is also helpful for anxiety, stress, and impulse control. Coaching can aid in achieving goals in the field of education or work as well. The client is able to decide whether to continue coaching or switch to another type of mental health professional.