Effective Treatments For Adult ADHD
Many people with ADHD find relief from the symptoms of this disorder through medication. Medication is more effective when it is combined with other treatment methods.
Treatment for adults with ADHD typically includes stimulants and nonstimulant drugs. These medications may be incompatible with medical conditions such as depression and high blood pressure.
1. Medication
Medication is an integral part of treatment for ADHD, balancing neurotransmitters in the brain to alleviate symptoms. The most common drugs are stimulants that boost dopamine, the chemical that is responsible for focus and thinking. Examples include amphetamines like Adderall and Vyvanse, or methylphenidate. Atomoxetine, Strattera, and Guanfacine, all non-stimulant drugs that boost dopamine, but with distinct chemical compositions and are also available.
The effects of stimulants begin in 30 to 45 minutes, and last 3 to 6 hours. Many people with ADHD try different medications to find one that works best for themselves. It is essential to inform about the existence of any other medications you are taking to your physician since some medications can interact with stimulants.
The signs of ADHD can affect a variety of aspects of life, from relationships to work performance. They can cause feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. People suffering from ADHD may have difficulty completing tasks or projects. They might spend a long time on one task before moving to another, leaving unfinished work. They may also experience difficulty sleeping well and feel groggy or even irritable throughout the day.
When properly taken, stimulant drugs can improve the way people with ADHD function in school and at home. They can reduce the difficulties at home, and bring people closer to their families and enable them to reach their professional goals. Treatment isn't a cure-all but it can make a huge difference. The first step is for people who suffer from ADHD to speak to their doctor or specialist. They will discuss the treatment options available to them and may suggest a combination of treatments and medications.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a powerful treatment for ADHD. It assists you in examining and alter negative patterns of thought that interfere with your self-control and productivity. CBT has been shown to improve the quality of life and symptoms particularly when it is combined with stimulant medication. Unlike traditional psychoanalytic or psychodynamic therapies that look at childhood traumas and experiences, CBT is goal-oriented and is focused on the present.
During therapy with your therapist, you will work together to discover and break down the negative thought patterns that keep you in bad habits. Then, you come up with strategies to replace them with more effective ones. Your therapist can also assist with other issues that affect your functioning, such as the coexistence of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, relationship difficulties as well as self-care and job performance.
If you're always late, your therapist might teach you how to prioritize tasks and use the planner. They may also suggest you arrive early so you don't get bored or stressed waiting for things to start. Other options include wearing a watch, placing clocks around your house and office, or writing out every day activities in detail.
The aim is to make these tools a part of your life and not just an effort to get rid of your ADHD symptoms. To achieve this you'll have to find a therapist who is reliable. Ask your doctor for a recommendation in case you don't know one. Visit local medical centers, colleges and the ADDitude Directory to find therapists who specialize in ADHD.
add treatment natural can also search for online programs that provide the possibility of practicing the skills on your own, while connecting you to an expert or therapist. These programs are typically more affordable, however they may not offer the same level of support that sessions in person would.
3. Counseling
Many adults suffering from ADHD struggle with their work and relationships because they are unable to remember important details or make impulsive choices. Coaching and therapy can enhance communication and assist with strategies to deal with stress and anger.
Family therapy and marriage therapy address the issues that can be encountered when someone with ADHD is in a romantic relationship or at work. These issues can include not paying attention to important commitments, financial difficulties and difficulty with responsibilities in the home or workplace. Therapy can assist you and your spouse, or coworkers, learn to communicate more effectively to enable you to better manage these challenges.
Adult ADHD treatment typically involves a combination of medication along with cognitive behavioral therapy and counseling. The medication helps control the symptoms so that you can focus on the task at hand, however other therapies offer more holistic approaches to improve your life.
It can take a while to locate an adhd specialist or coach. It's worth it in order to improve your life quality. Speak to your primary care physician about a referral to an expert in mental health. They'll be able to suggest a specialist to treat your symptoms and provide guidance for you and your family.
You could be eligible to participate in a clinical trial which offers new remedies for your symptoms. Clinical trials are research studies that examine ways to identify, prevent or treat ailments. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and dangers of participating in a clinical study.
4. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a method of treatment that is individualized to the individual, and helps people with ADHD overcome the obstacles they face in their daily lives. It helps them develop techniques to improve their life quality and improve their abilities in work, school at home, at work, as well as in social interactions. 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 concentrate on developing abilities and devising strategies to help with day-to-day functioning, including time management and the development of self-control. For instance, they might instruct people suffering from ADHD to break down their tasks into smaller pieces and employ visual aids to remind them of their duties. They can also help them develop executive function skills. These are cognitive processes that allow people to plan, manage and complete a task and also make decisions and switch attention to other tasks.
Adults suffering from ADHD have difficulty organising their personal belongings and environment, such as books, clothing and wallets. OTs can help the clients to create systems to ensure their belongings are organised and establish routines to maintain organisation. This can include using visual aids, preparing schedules and utilizing a planner. The OTs can also assist clients in learning to recognise the connection between their mood and the amount of sensory stimulation they feel and help them monitor their sensory diet 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 enable them to let their energy go and frustrations in a more appropriate way rather than transferring their emotions into relationships with other people.
5. Behavioral Coaching
Coaching for behavior can be beneficial for people with ADHD who have to deal with specific problems. A coach may work with clients on topics such as managing money and relationships, improving communication, reducing procrastination or improving academic performance. Coaches may also educate clients about the neurobiological and genetic factors that contribute to ADHD. This information will help clients lessen the stigma that is associated with ADHD, as well as the self-blame often promoted by popular media.
A good ADHD coach can provide the structure and help needed to make positive changes. They can guide the client through the process of reflection to determine what actions are beneficial or harmful to achieving their goals. They can teach the client how to change their behavior to improve their time management skills and build the skills to achieve their goals. A coach can offer encouragement and support during the entire process.
It's important for clients to understand that their symptoms are normal. It may be that professionals are the only person who has ever recognized their condition. It can be a relief for them to know that their struggles are not due to character imperfections. This newfound understanding can also enable them to stop blaming themselves and seek out assistance.
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from the combination of medication and coaching. The coach and psychiatrist can collaborate to work on various issues like setting goals, prioritizing, motivation, organizational skills and problem solving. Behavioral coaching can assist with stress, anxiety, and impulse control. A coach can also help with educational and vocational goals. The client may decide to continue with coaching or move to a different type of mental health professional.