Effective Treatments For Adult ADHD
Many people with ADHD can get relief from the symptoms of this condition through medication. However, the medication is more effective when combined with other treatment options.
Adult medication for ADHD typically includes stimulants and nonstimulant drugs. These medications may interfere with certain medical conditions, such as depression and high blood pressure.
1. Medication
Medication can be a very important part of treatment for ADHD. It helps to regulate neurotransmitters and reduce symptoms. The most common medication is stimulants that increase dopamine, the chemical that controls attention 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 and include Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Intuniv).
The stimulants start to work within 30 to 45 minutes, and last for 3 to 6 hours. Many people who suffer from ADHD try different medications to determine the one that is most effective for them. It is important to inform your doctor about any other health issues you suffer from and any medications you take, as they could interact with stimulants.
ADHD symptoms can affect the entirety of your life, including relationships and work performance. They can create feelings of self-worth and inadequacy. People suffering from ADHD may have difficulty finishing projects or tasks. They may spend an extended time on a task before moving onto another, and leave behind unfinished work. They may also have difficulties getting a good night's sleep and may be tired or irritable throughout the day.
When properly taken, stimulant drugs can improve the way people who suffer from ADHD function in school and at home. They can help reduce difficulties at home, bringing people closer to their families, and enable them to reach their professional goals. Treatment isn't a cure but it can make a huge difference. The first step is for those suffering from ADHD to speak with their physician or specialist. They will discuss the treatment options available to them and recommend a mixture of therapies and medications.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is an effective treatment for ADHD. It helps you identify and revise negative thought patterns that affect your performance and emotional self-regulation. CBT has been proven to improve symptoms and function, especially when combined stimulant medication. Unlike traditional psychoanalytic or psychodynamic treatments that focus on childhood experiences and traumas, CBT is goal-oriented and is focused on the present.
During therapy the therapist and you will work together to identify and break down the negative habits of thought that cause you to fall into bad habits. Then, you develop strategies to replace these thoughts with more beneficial ones. Your therapist might also assist you with other issues that can affect your performance, such as co-existing mood disorders or anxiety or relationship issues as well as job performance and self-care.
If you're always late, your therapist could teach you how to prioritize tasks and use a planner. They might also suggest that you arrive early so that you don't get bored or stressed waiting for things to begin. Other options include using a clock or a watch, placing clocks in your workplace and at home or jotting down your every day activities.
The aim is to make these tools a natural part of your daily routine and not just a means to get rid of your ADHD symptoms. However, for this to happen you'll need to find a therapist who is reliable. Ask your doctor for recommendations If you don't already have one. Check local medical centers, colleges and the ADDitude Directory to find therapists that specialize in ADHD.
There are also online programs that let you test your skills on your own, while connecting you with a coach or therapist. These programs are often more affordable but may not offer the same level support as a face-to-face session.
3. Counseling
Many adults with ADHD struggle with their relationships and at work due to the fact that they forget important tasks or make impulsive choices. Coaching and therapy can improve communication between people, and strategies for dealing with frustration and stress that result from these issues.
Counseling for families and marriages addresses the problems that can be created when a person suffering from ADHD is engaged or working at their job. These issues could include not paying attention to important obligations, financial struggles or having difficulty with responsibilities at home or work. Therapy can aid you and your partner or coworkers to improve communication so that you can be able to deal with these issues better.
Adult ADHD treatment usually involves a combination of medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and counseling. The medication helps control the symptoms so that you can concentrate on the work that are at hand, but other therapies offer more holistic approaches to improving your life.
It could take a while to find an adhd expert or therapist. But it's worth the effort to improve your quality of life. Consult treating adult adhd about a referral to an expert in mental health. They'll be able recommend a specialist who can treat your symptoms and offer guidance to you and your family.
You may be able to take part in a clinical trial 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. Discuss with your doctor the benefits and dangers of taking part in a clinical trial.
4. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a form of treatment that is customized to the individual and assists those with ADHD overcome obstacles in their daily lives. It helps them develop skills to improve their life quality and increase their ability at school, work at home, at work, as well as in social interactions. OT has been shown to be an effective treatment option for adults with ADHD.
An OT will not just address symptoms, but also help develop strategies and skills that aid in everyday functioning, such as time management and self-control. For instance, they could instruct people suffering from ADHD to break down tasks into smaller parts and use visual aids to remind them of their duties. They will also assist them with the development of executive functional skills which are the cognitive processes that allow people to plan and manage tasks as well as make decisions and shift attention to new tasks.
Adults with ADHD have trouble organizing their personal and professional belongings like books, clothing and wallets. OTs can assist these clients to develop systems to keep their possessions organised and develop routines to ensure order. This can include using a planner, drafting schedules, and using visual aids. OTs can also help clients understand the connection between their mood and the amount they are exposed to sensory stimulation. They will then monitor their intake of sensory stimuli 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 help them release their restless energy and frustrations in a more appropriate way, rather than transferring those emotions into relationships with others.
5. Behavioral Coaching
Behavioral coaching is a great option for adults suffering from ADHD who need to address specific issues. A coach might work with clients on topics like managing money, building relationships as well as reducing procrastination and improving academic performance. Coaches can also help educate clients on the neurobiological and genetic factors that cause ADHD. This knowledge can help clients overcome the stigma that surrounds the condition and reduce self-blame which is often portrayed in popular media.
A good ADHD coach will provide the structure and guidance needed to make positive changes. They can guide their clients through a process of reflection to determine which habits are helpful or detrimental in reaching their goals. They can teach their client how to modify their habits to improve their time management skills and acquire the necessary abilities to reach their goals. A coach can provide guidance and support during the entire process.
It is important that clients be aware that their symptoms aren't abnormal. A professional may be the only person they ever encounter who understands their disorder, so it can be a relief to realize that their challenges are not caused by their character flaws or some personal flaw. This new understanding could allow individuals from blame and seek out help.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a combination of medication and coaching. The psychiatrist and the coach can collaborate to tackle a range of issues, including goals, prioritizing tasks motivation, organizational skills, motivation, and problem solving. Behavioral coaching can also be beneficial for anxiety, stress and impulse control. Coaching can also assist in achieving goals in the field of education and work. The client has the option of deciding whether they want to continue coaching or change to a different mental health professional.