Adult ADHD Treatment
Most adults with ADHD improve with a combination medication, behavioral strategies and lifestyle changes. Doctors will review the medical history of the patient and determine if any other disorders, such as depression or an anxiety disorder might be causing symptoms.
The stimulants are often the first medication that is tried. Other medications include atomoxetine an anti-stimulant (Strattera) and some antidepressants.
treatment of add is usually the first line treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. These drugs adjust the levels of chemical messengers which control your attention in your brain. They are dopamine and norepinephrine. Stimulants increase the amount of norepinephrine, which enhances your concentration. They also reduce the brain's natural tendency to absorb dopamine, which reduces hyperactivity.
Medications can improve your symptoms and enable you to perform better at work, school or in other aspects of your life. They can't solve all your issues. They can cause side effects such as weight loss, irritability, or difficulties sleeping. Speak to your doctor regarding possible adverse effects.
The medications used to treat ADHD for adults include both stimulants and nonstimulant drugs. Your doctor will suggest the right medicine and dose for you based on your specific situation, symptoms, and health history. Certain people do not react to stimulant medications, while others may not have any reaction at any time.
There are three kinds of ADHD medications: immediate-release, extended-release and Atomoxetine. Immediate-release medications can be taken as required. They typically peak between 30 and 60 minutes after intake and then slowly fade. Extended-release drugs can last up to 16 hours and are administered once a day. They aid in the management of symptoms. People who are taking extended release ADHD medications often supplement them with a dose of instant-release late in the evening or afternoon.
Atomoxetine, which was the first nonstimulant drug approved to treat ADHD in adults, operates by limiting the actions of certain chemicals in the brain that control mood and attention. It is a more long-lasting drug that has a sustained release than other ADHD medication, like Bupropion (Wellbutrin) which enhances norepinephrine and dopamine, in your brain.
Your doctor could also prescribe guanfacine or clonidine which regulate the part of your brain that regulates your attention. These may be helpful for those with ADHD who also suffer from tics or anxiety. These medications are known as cholinergic agents. They are available only on prescription from your doctor or psychiatrist.
Therapy
In addition to medication therapy is often a part of an ADHD treatment program. Therapy sessions can assist you and your family understand how your ADHD affects your relationships and life. It can also help you learn strategies for coping and how to manage your ADHD symptoms.
For example therapy can teach you organizational techniques to help you stay on top of tasks and maintain control over your surroundings. A therapist could teach you how to resolve conflicts and problem-solving as well as strategies to improve concentration and focus. You can learn yoga, breathing exercises meditation, or other techniques for relaxation to help you calm down and improve your mood. This is sometimes referred to as biofeedback or hypnotherapy.
A therapist can also help you develop coping skills for dealing with the emotional and behavioral issues that are common to adults with ADHD. A therapist could offer, for instance, cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a talking therapy that teaches how your beliefs and thoughts affect your feelings and behavior. CBT is especially effective for addressing the executive functioning problems that can be a result of ADHD like difficulty organizing, planning and time management.
Another alternative is dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) which can help you modify your response to difficult emotions. DBT includes elements such as mindfulness, which teaches you to look at your thoughts and feelings without judgement and emotion regulation, which focuses on managing difficult emotions and the development of interpersonal skills. It is designed for those with co-occurring disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Keep in mind that it may take some time for the body to adjust to the new medications. There may be issues at home and at work until you've mastered the skills needed to manage symptoms. In the meantime, try making small changes in your lifestyle to help you cope.
For instance, if you're impatient and forgetful, ask your professor or boss about accommodations that can aid you in your studies. You can also ask friends and relatives to make allowances for your ADHD. You may also want to look into family therapy or marriage counseling, which can help you and your loved ones learn to communicate more effectively and appreciate each other's challenges.
Education
For adults, psychosocial treatments can reduce symptoms and improve performance. These treatments can comprise a range of therapies that can be provided in person or via the internet. They may also be paired with medication to achieve the best results.
One of the first steps in treating ADHD is to receive an assessment. A qualified mental health professional will utilize scales and semi-structured interviews to discover the details of the person's issues. They will then be able to provide an accurate diagnosis and formulate the treatment plan.
Talk therapy can be used to aid people suffering from ADHD manage their issues and manage them. Psychoeducation is one of the methods that can help patients understand their condition and its effects on school, work, and relationships. Other therapies focus on managing emotions and improving organizational skills. Cognitive behavioral therapy assists people overcome negative attitudes and behaviors that may be preventing them from achieving their goals.
Family therapy and marriage can help address the challenges ADHD can bring in professional and personal relationships. It can help couples and families to communicate more effectively and identify patterns that lead to conflict. It can also assist in exploring ways to improve communication and create a positive outlook on the future.
Adults suffering from ADHD benefit from a behavioral therapy program by improving their self-esteem and establishing an accurate perspective of their abilities. It can teach them how to better manage their finances, time and their personal space and also manage their impulsive behavior and help them manage anger and stress. These skills can be taught in a group or individually by a psychotherapist.
Meditation, also known as mindfulness can be a useful form of therapy for adult ADHD. It can teach people to focus on the present moment and be more aware of their emotions as they gain a greater sense of control over their lives. It can be done in a group or with a therapist, and it can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as CBT and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
Other options for treating ADHD in adults include cognitive-behavioral as well as interpersonal therapy. These treatments focus on improving interpersonal skills. Some people suffering from ADHD may also resort to alternative treatments for health, such as diet and supplements to treat their symptoms. While these methods aren't scientifically proven to reduce ADHD but some people consider them beneficial.
Support
As an adult with ADHD, you might be overwhelmed by the challenges you face. When your ADHD symptoms become more severe, everything from managing relationships to paying bills and completing deadlines can be difficult. Your symptoms can also impact your self-esteem and make it difficult to understand the issues you're experiencing. It is essential to seek out treatment to overcome your challenges and live a more productive life.
Medications are effective for many adults suffering from ADHD however, they don't solve all the symptoms or improve your quality of life. It is essential to get an integrated treatment plan for adults suffering from adhd, which includes therapy and medication.
Therapy can help you learn to manage your ADHD symptoms and help you develop coping strategies. It can teach you how to manage your emotions and relationships. Relaxation techniques can also aid in reducing stress and improve your concentration. It is also essential to receive support from family and friends. Talk therapy can help you learn how to communicate better and cope with anger and the impulsive behavior.
There are many types of talk therapy. They include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), metacognitive and interpersonal therapy. CBT is an evidence-based approach that helps you change negative thinking patterns and develop better strategies for coping. Metacognitive therapy assists you in improving your organizational skills as well as time management and planning. It can also help you resolve thinking distortions that lead to low mood and a feeling of limited choices.
A recent study of a cognitive rehabilitation program revealed that the program included small group therapy sessions, coaching, along with exercise. This improved the quality of life and reduced symptoms (Stevenson and al 2002). This type of therapy is usually more affordable than individual psychotherapy. It also lets you take part in sessions with others who are facing similar issues, which can be more helpful.
There are many online resources for finding an adult adhd therapist and support groups. Some of these offer virtual sessions using chatrooms or video chat as well as local meetings. These services are increasing in popularity and research is ongoing on their effectiveness.