How to Treat ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD get relief from medication. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine increase the levels of certain brain chemicals.
Counseling can help you deal with the challenges that ADHD causes at school, work and in relationships. Therapy can help family members to help their loved one.
Medicines
Adults and children with ADHD are able to benefit from medications to help them control impulses, plan ahead and concentrate. Psychostimulants can increase and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They can also reduce the symptoms of ADHD within a short time.
There are several different kinds of stimulants approved to treat ADHD, including amphetamines (Dexedrine), dextroamphetamine-amfetamines (Adderall XR, Mydayis and Vyvanse) and methylphenidates (Concerta and Ritalin). Some of these medications contain additional ingredients that reduce appetite and aid in sleeping. Stimulant medication can have a variety of side effects, such as the loss of appetite as well as stomach upset, insomnia, and weight loss. Before beginning treatment, it's important to discuss these possible side effects with your doctor.
For adults who have co-occurring ADHD and addiction disorders, the chance of consuming stimulant drugs is higher than for those who don't suffer from mental illness. It is crucial to collaborate with your healthcare professional to match the characteristics and needs of the various extended release stimulant preparations. It can be beneficial to record the effects of the medication on your daily activities, so that you and your healthcare professional can make necessary adjustments.
Medications such as Wellbutrin (bupropion) and antidepressants are available "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults. These drugs focus on two neurotransmitters that are present in the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine, which can enhance concentration. They may be an appropriate treatment option if you've tried stimulants and found them to be not effective or uncomfortable, or if you have a history of substance abuse.
Non-stimulant drugs are also available to treat ADHD in adults. However they aren't as common as stimulants. Although they tend to have a lower risk of side-effects such as agitation and insomnia, all drugs carry some risk. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medication includes atomoxetine (Strattera) Intuniv, (guanfacine), Kapvay, (clonidine) the XR and Qelbree.
Therapy can help you or your child learn skills to cope with the symptoms of ADHD and how to manage stress, anger and frustration. Therapists can help you learn to set realistic goals and stay on track in achieving them, improve your focus and control the impulsive behavior of your child, and also develop better interpersonal relationships. BetterHelp is which matches you with licensed and certified therapists, can help with ADHD, depression, or anxiety.
Counseling
If you suffer from adult ADHD If you suffer from adult ADHD, you may benefit from counseling to assist you in managing your symptoms and lead an improved quality of life. These services can include psychological counseling (psychotherapy), education about the disorder, and learning skills to be more successful. CBT is a standard treatment for ADHD that can be combined medications. CBT teaches you how to modify negative habits of thinking and behavior that cause issues in your daily life. It can also help you improve your focus, memory, and emotions.
You may need family therapy or marriage counseling If your ADHD symptoms affect your relationships. The therapist you consult with can teach you methods to improve communication and problem-solving. In addition, family members can learn how to assist you. CBT can improve your self-esteem and increase your organizational skills, making you feel more confident. If you have trouble finding a therapist, think about using a telehealth provider like Talkspace. The platform online offers mental health services, including therapy for ADHD and other disorders. You can communicate with your therapy therapist via video, audio or via messaging. The company also provides a monthly plan that provides unlimited messaging with a guarantee of response from your therapist five days every week.
To manage ADHD you require patience and persistence. If you have a difficult remembering appointments or meeting deadlines, try setting reminders on your smartphone or computer. If you're unable to manage your symptoms, talk to your doctor about medication or other treatment options.
It's crucial to find a therapist that recognizes the unique challenges you face when dealing with ADHD. Make sure you choose a therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD and who you trust. A good therapist should possess a compassionate and non-judgmental approach and be able to listen to your concerns. Avoid a therapist who does not listen to you or who doesn't maintain eye contact.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders offers many resources to adults with ADHD. The website has educational materials as well as support groups, webinars, and classes. There is also a directory of professionals who specialize in this condition.
Self-help
Many people who suffer from ADHD can make positive changes to their daily routine learn to utilize their strengths, and develop strategies to manage their symptoms. These skills can help them function more efficiently, keep their organization and better interact with others. Some of these techniques can help reduce stress and increase their sense of self-worth. These self-help services are not instant fixes however, with time and practice, they can help reduce some of the most challenging aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is a popular form of treatment for adults with ADHD. It may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which assists patients recognize and alter harmful thought patterns and behaviors. It can also address other mental health conditions such as depression and addiction to drugs. Marital and family counseling can help loved ones deal with the difficulties of living with ADHD.
CBT is a highly effective treatment for ADHD in adults that can be combined along with medication. It teaches people to identify and overcome unhealthy thinking patterns, such as all-or-nothing thinking, focusing on errors, and downplaying accomplishments. These habits can lead you to impulsive behavior and procrastination and also problems with interpersonal relationships. CBT can also teach patients to use strategies for coping, including planning, goal setting, and the ability to organize.
Other strategies for dealing with adult ADHD include identifying and practicing healthy sleep patterns, keeping an ongoing schedule, and working out. A good night's rest can help increase focus and decrease the likelihood of irritability. Meditation practice can enhance emotional regulation and impulse control. Recent research has found that a cognitive behavioral approach that combines mindfulness meditation training CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, and mindfulness improved ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD affects every aspect of your life, not just your personal and professional relationships. It can lead to problems with school, money and work, as well as family. It is difficult to maintain your sense of self-worth. It can also result in chronic stress and anxiety disorders, mood disorders and sleep problems. These issues can exacerbate your ADHD symptoms and impact your relationships with friends, family and relationships. To overcome these challenges you should seek the help of an expert therapist who is trained in ADHD.
Support groups
A support group can be a great way to meet people who have ADHD. They provide a wealth of knowledge and advice from those who have dealt with ADHD for many years. They can also offer emotional support. Many support groups are run by counselors who are professional and specialize in treating ADHD. Some are run by volunteers. There are virtual and online support groups.
It is crucial to choose a group that is safe and reliable. Look for social media accounts that have been verified by an organization. It is best to use accounts on social media that are affiliated with larger organizations you can trust. You should also find out whether the group is peer-led or professionally managed. Although add adult treatment -led groups are effective but they might not have the resources or expertise required to solve complex issues and challenges. A professional facilitator offers structure, guidance and specialized expertise to enhance the quality of a group.
A few support groups provide a variety of activities and events like webinars, workshops, and meetings. They can also offer coaching services. In addition to offering assistance, these groups may provide valuable information on treatments and medications for ADHD. Many of these groups also have a list of local ADHD professionals. You can also choose a group based on your interests if seeking support for a specific issue. There are groups for parents of ADHD children or adults who have ADHD/ADD.
In addition to joining a support group you can talk to family members and acquaintances about your diagnosis. You should also tell your supervisors and colleagues about your illness. This will allow them to understand your specific needs and make it easier for them to help you at school or at work. In addition, you can ask them to make accommodations for your condition for example, making you work longer for specific tasks. This can be a big step in improving relationships with the people closest to you. Always consult an experienced healthcare professional to get the most precise information.