Effective Treatments For Adult ADHD
Many adults with ADHD find relief from the symptoms of this disorder through medication. The effectiveness of medication is greater when combined other treatment methods.
Treatment for adults with ADHD typically includes stimulants as well as nonstimulant medicines. These medications may interfere with certain medical conditions, such as depression and high blood pressure.
1. Medication
Medical treatment can be an vital aspect of treating ADHD. It helps to regulate neurotransmitters and reduce symptoms. The most common medications are stimulants, which increase dopamine levels responsible for thinking and attention. Examples include amphetamines like Adderall and Vyvanse, or methylphenidate. Atomoxetine, Strattera, and Guanfacine, both non-stimulant medications that boost dopamine, but with a completely different chemical composition they are also available.
Stimulants start to work after 30 to 45 minutes, and last for 3 to 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 medical conditions you have, as well as any medication you are taking, as they can interact with stimulants.
Symptoms of ADHD affect multiple aspects of life, from relationships to work performance. They can create feelings of self-worth and inadequacy. People with ADHD frequently have difficulty completing projects or tasks, and may be able to spend long hours working on the same task before shifting to another, leaving work unfinished in their wake. They may also have difficulty sleeping well and feel tired or even irritable throughout the day.
When properly used, stimulant medications can improve the way people with ADHD perform at home and in school. They can reduce the difficulties at home, bring people closer to their families, and enable them to reach their professional goals. Treatment isn't a cure-all however it can make a huge difference. The first step is for people with ADHD to talk to their physician or specialist. They will discuss the treatment options available to them and suggest a combination of therapies and medications.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a powerful treatment for ADHD. It helps you examine and alter your negative thought patterns, which interfere with your self-regulation and productivity. Research has shown that CBT can improve symptoms and performance, particularly when used in conjunction with stimulant medication. Unlike traditional psychoanalytic or psychodynamic therapies that explore traumas and childhood experiences, CBT is goal-oriented and is focused on the present.
In therapy with your therapist, you will collaborate to identify and challenge distressing thought patterns that keep you in bad habits. Then, you develop strategies to replace these thoughts with more beneficial ones. Your therapist can also help with other issues that can affect your functioning, such as the coexistence of anxiety disorders, relationships issues, mood disorders as well as self-care and job performance.
For instance, if always late, your therapist might instruct you to prioritize your tasks and use a planner. They may also suggest that you arrive early so you aren't stressed or bored waiting for things start. Other strategies might include wearing a watch, placing clocks in your home and office, or writing out every day actions in detail.
The goal is to make these tools a part of your life and not just a means to get rid of your ADHD symptoms. To achieve this you'll have to find a therapist who is reliable. Ask your doctor for recommendations if you don't already know one. Look up local medical centers, colleges and the ADDitude Directory to find therapists who specialize in ADHD.
You can also find online programs that let you practice your skills on your own, while connecting you with a coach or therapist. These programs are often less expensive, but they might not provide the same level of support as a face-to-face session.
3. Counseling
Many people with ADHD have difficulty in their work and relationships because they forget important things or make decisions impulsively. Coaching and therapy can help improve communication in relationships, and strategies for dealing with the stress and anger caused by these issues.
Family therapy and marriage therapy address the issues that arise when a person who suffers from ADHD is in a romantic relationship or at work. These issues can include being unable to remember important obligations, financial difficulties, or trouble with responsibilities at home or work. Therapy can help you and your partner or coworkers learn to communicate more effectively so that you can be able to manage these difficulties better.
Adult ADHD is typically treated with a combination medication as well as cognitive behavioral therapy and counseling. The medication can help you manage the symptoms, so that you can concentrate on the task at hand. However other therapies provide an alternative to improve your life.
If you suffer from adult adhd, it might require some time to locate a coach or therapist who specializes in treating the disorder. It's worth it to improve your quality of life. Ask your primary care provider for a referral to an expert in mental health. They can refer you to an expert to treat your symptoms and provide support to you and your loved family members.
You might be able to participate in a clinical study that may offer new treatments for your symptoms. Clinical trials are research studies that test ways to prevent and treat diseases, as well as diagnose and conditions. Speak to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of participating in a study.
4. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a method of treatment that is customized to the individual, and helps those with ADHD overcome challenges in their daily lives. It teaches skills to improve their lives and improve their ability to take part in meaningful activities in the contexts of school, work, home and social relationships. Studies have already proven that OT is a highly effective treatment for adults with ADHD.
In addition to addressing the symptoms, 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 example, they may instruct people suffering from ADHD to break down tasks into smaller parts and use visual aids to remind them of their responsibilities. They can also assist them to develop executive function skills. These are cognitive processes that enable people to plan, manage and complete the task, and make a decision and switch attention to other tasks.
Adults suffering from ADHD often have trouble organizing their personal and physical items like wallets, books and clothes. OTs will teach these clients to develop systems to manage their belongings and establish routines to maintain the order. This may include using a planner, making schedules and using visual aids. OTs can also help clients understand the connection between their mood and how much they are exposed to sensory stimulation. They can then monitor their sensory diet in order 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 can help them let go of their frustration and restlessness in a more effective manner, rather than transfer these feelings to relationships with other people.
5. Behavioral Coaching
Coaching for behavior can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD who need to address specific issues. adult adhd treatments may work with clients on topics such as managing finances as well as building relationships and reducing procrastination, or improving academic performance. Coaches can also teach clients on the neurobiological as well as genetic factors that cause ADHD. This knowledge can help clients overcome the stigma that surrounds the condition and lessen self-blame that is often promoted in popular media.
A competent ADHD coach can provide the structure and help required to make positive changes. They can guide the client through the process of reflection to identify what habits are beneficial or harmful in reaching their goals. They can teach their client how to change their behavior to improve their time management skills and acquire the necessary skills to achieve their goals. A coach can offer encouragement and support during the entire process.
It is crucial for patients to be aware that their issues are normal. A professional might be the only person they ever encounter who understands the condition, and it's a relief to realize that their challenges are not due to their character flaws or some personal failure. This new understanding could enable them to stop blaming themselves and to seek help.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from a combination of medication and coaching. The coach and the psychiatrist can collaborate to work on a variety of issues such as setting goals, prioritizing, motivation, organizational skills and problem solving. Behavioral coaching can be helpful for stress, anxiety, and impulse control. A coach can assist with goals for education or career as well. The client can choose to continue with coaching or switch to a different type of mental health professional.