Effective Treatments For Adult ADHD
Many adults with ADHD can get relief from the symptoms of this condition through medication. However, medication is more effective when paired with other treatment methods.
Adult ADHD medication usually contains stimulants and nonstimulants. Certain medical conditions, like high blood pressure and depression can interfere with these medications.
1. Medication
The use of medication is a major part of treatment for ADHD that balances neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce symptoms. The main medications are stimulants that increase dopamine, a chemical that controls focus and thinking. Examples include amphetamines, such as Adderall and Vyvanse or methylphenidate. Non-stimulant drugs, which boost dopamine levels but have different chemical makeup 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 who suffer from ADHD test different medications to find one that works best for themselves. It is important to discuss any your other health issues and other medications you're taking to your doctor because some of them may interact with stimulants.
ADHD symptoms can impact all aspects of your life, including relationships and work performance. They can create feelings of being unworthy or low self-esteem. People suffering from ADHD may have difficulty finishing tasks or projects. They may be able to spend hours on one task before moving on to another, leaving unfinished work. They may also have difficulty sleeping well and may feel tired or even irritable throughout the day.
When taken correctly, stimulant medication can improve the way people who suffer from ADHD perform in school and at home. They can help reduce difficulties at home, bringing people closer to their families, and help them achieve their professional goals. Treatment is not a cure, but it can make a real difference. The first step is for those with ADHD to speak to their GP or specialist. They will discuss treatment options that can be beneficial for them and recommend a combination of therapies and medications.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a potent treatment for ADHD. It helps you identify and alter negative patterns of thought that affect your productivity and emotional self-regulation. CBT has been shown to improve symptoms and function, especially when combined 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.
During therapy, you and your therapist will collaborate to identify and address the troubling thought patterns that lead you to engage in unhealthy habits. You will then devise strategies to replace these thoughts with more positive ones. Your therapist can also assist with other issues that affect your performance, like coexisting anxiety disorders or mood disorders, relationship difficulties working, self-care and other issues.
For instance, if you're always running late, your therapist might help you prioritize tasks and use a calendar. They may also suggest you arrive early so that you don't get bored or stressed waiting for things start. Other strategies might include using a clock or placing clocks around your home and office, or even writing down your every day actions in detail.
The goal is to make these tools a natural part of your daily routine and not just an effort to get rid of your ADHD symptoms. To achieve this, you will need to find an experienced therapist. If you don't know one consult your physician for the name of a therapist. Then check with local medical centers colleges, universities, and the ADDitude Directory for therapists who specialize in ADHD.
There are also online programs that give you the option to practice the skills on your own, while connecting you to coaches or therapists. These programs are typically less expensive, but they might not provide the same level of support as a face-to-face session.
3. Counseling
Many people with ADHD struggle in their relationships and work because they are unable to remember important tasks or make impulsive decisions. Therapy and coaching can enhance communication and assist with strategies to deal with stress and anger.
Marriage and family therapy addresses the issues that be encountered when someone with ADHD is in a relationship or working. These issues include forgetting important commitments, financial difficulties, and trouble with responsibilities in the workplace or at home. Therapy can also help you as well as your colleagues or friends develop better communication so that you can manage these difficulties more efficiently.
Adult ADHD treatment typically involves a combination of medication, counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy. The medication helps you manage the symptoms, so that you can concentrate on the task at hand. However other treatments offer a more holistic way to improve your life.
If you suffer from adult adhd, it might be a long time before you find a therapist or coach who specializes in treating the disorder. It's worth it to increase your life quality. Consult your primary care physician about getting a referral for a mental health professional. They can refer you to an expert to treat your issues and provide counseling for you and your loved family members.
You might be able to participate in a clinical study that may offer new solutions to your symptoms. Clinical trials are research studies that examine ways to diagnose and treat, or prevent, illnesses. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and dangers of participating in a clinical study.
4. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a treatment that is tailored to the individual, and helps people with ADHD overcome challenges in their daily lives. adults adhd treatment teaches skills to improve their lives and improve their ability to take part in meaningful activities in the context of school, work and home, as well as social connections. OT has been proven to be an effective treatment option for adults with ADHD.
In addition to addressing the symptoms as well as addressing their causes, an OT will also focus on enhancing skills and devising strategies that aid in daily functioning, such as time management and the development of self-control. For instance, they might teach people with ADHD to break down tasks into smaller parts and use visual aids to remind them of their responsibilities. They can also assist them with the development of executive function skills which are the cognitive processes that allow people to manage and plan a task as well as make decisions and shift focus to new tasks.
Adults suffering from ADHD have difficulty organising their environment and personal possessions including books, clothing, and wallets. OTs can assist these clients to develop systems to ensure their belongings are organised and create routines to maintain the order. This may include using visual aids, making schedules and using an organizer. 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 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 release their restless energy and frustrations in a way that is more appropriate instead of transferring those emotions into relationships with other people.
5. Behavioral Coaching
Behavioral coaching is a great option for people with ADHD who need to address specific problems. A coach may work with clients to address issues like managing finances, building relationships, reducing procrastination or improving academic performance. Coaches can also teach clients about the neurobiological and genetic factors that cause ADHD. This knowledge can help clients reduce the stigma that is associated with ADHD as well as the self-blame that is often promoted by popular media.
A good ADHD coach can provide the guidance and structure required to implement changes. They can guide their client through a reflection process to identify which behaviors can be beneficial or detrimental to attaining their goals. They can help the client learn how to modify their habits to improve their time management and develop the skills needed to reach their goals. A coach can provide encouragement and support throughout the process.
It is crucial that patients be aware that their symptoms aren't abnormal. A professional might be the only person they interact with who understands their disorder, so it can be a relief to know that their issues aren't caused by their character flaws, or a personal failure. This understanding will liberate them to stop blaming themselves and to seek help.
A combination of medication and behavioral coaching can be extremely beneficial for adults with ADHD. The psychiatrist and coach may work together to address various issues, such as goals, prioritizing tasks motivation, organizational skills, motivation, and problem solving. Behavioral coaching can also help with stress, anxiety, and impulse control. A coach can help with goals for education or career as well. The client has the option to continue coaching or move to a different kind of mental health professional.