How to Treat ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD find relief through medication. Stimulants, like amphetamine and methylphenidate, can boost and regulate the levels of certain chemicals in the brain.
Counseling helps you cope with the challenges that ADHD causes at school, work and in relationships. Read the Full Write-up can also teach family members how to help their loved ones.
Medications
Many children and adults with ADHD benefit from medications to aid in their ability to concentrate and control impulses, as well as plan ahead. Psychostimulants can increase and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They can also reduce the symptoms of ADHD within a short amount of 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). Certain medications have additional ingredients to suppress appetite and promote sleep. Stimulant medication can have a variety of side effects, such as the loss of appetite, stomach upset, insomnia, and weight loss. Before beginning treatment, it is important to discuss these possible side effects with your doctor.
For adults with co-occurring ADHD and addiction disorders, the chance of abusing stimulant medications is higher than for those who don't suffer from a mental health issue. This is why it's important to work with your healthcare professional to align the characteristics of the various extended release stimulant preparations with your specific needs. You may find it helpful to keep track of your daily activities as well as the effects of your medication to work with your healthcare provider to make any necessary adjustments.
Adults are treated with antidepressants as well as Wellbutrin, a medication that contains bupropion. These drugs work by increasing concentration via two neurotransmitters that are found in the brain that are norepinephrine (a stimulant) and dopamine (an antidepressant). These medications may be a viable option if stimulants have not worked or are too annoying or if you have a history of drug abuse.
Non-stimulant medicines are also available for treating ADHD for adults, but they've been around for not for as long as stimulants. They tend to carry less risk of adverse effects like agitation and insomnia, but all drugs have risks. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medications include atomoxetine (Strattera) and Intuniv (guanfacine XR), Kapvay (clonidine XR) and Qelbree (viloxazine).
Therapy can teach you or your child techniques to deal with the symptoms of ADHD, including how to manage anger, stress and frustration. Therapists can teach you how to set realistic goals and persist in achieving them, increase your focus and control impulsive behavior, and build stronger relationships with others. BetterHelp is which matches you with licensed and accredited therapists, can help those suffering from ADHD, depression, or anxiety.
Counseling
If you suffer from adult ADHD, you may benefit from counseling to assist you in managing your symptoms and live a more fulfilling life. These services could include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and information about the disorder, or learning skills to become more successful. CBT is a popular treatment for ADHD that can be combined medication. CBT helps you change negative thinking patterns and behaviors that can cause problems in your daily life. It can also help you improve your memory, focus and emotions.
You may require family therapy or counseling for your marriage if your ADHD symptoms affect your relationships. Your therapist can teach you strategies to improve communication and problem-solving. Additionally, your family members can also learn how to assist you. CBT can also improve confidence in yourself and improve your organizational skills, making you feel more confident about your self-esteem. Talkspace is a great option for those who are having difficulty finding an psychotherapist. This online platform provides mental health services, which include therapy for ADHD and other disorders. You can contact your therapist via messaging, video, or audio sessions. The company also offers a monthly plan that provides unlimited messaging and a guaranteed response from your therapist 5 days seven days a week.
The management of managing your ADHD requires patience and perseverance. Try setting reminders for your phone or computer when you're having trouble remembering deadlines or appointments. If you're unable to manage your symptoms, speak to your doctor about medication or other treatments.
It's crucial to find a therapist that is aware of the particular challenges you face with ADHD. Choose a therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD, and one you can be confident in. A good therapist will possess a caring, non-judgmental approach and will listen to your concerns. Be wary of a therapist who does not pay attention to you or doesn't keep eye contact.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders has many sources for adults suffering from ADHD. The website provides educational materials as well as support groups, webinars and classes. There is also an index of professionals who specialize in the disorder.
Self-help
Many people suffering from ADHD can make positive changes in their daily routines, learn to utilize their strengths and develop strategies to manage their symptoms. These skills can help them work more efficiently, stay organized and be more effective in interacting with others. Some of these techniques can also reduce stress and improve their self-esteem. These self-help tools aren't quick fixes, but with time and practice, they can help reduce some of the most challenging aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is a typical option for treating adults with ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be used to help patients comprehend and modify negative thoughts and behaviors. It can also address issues that are related to other mental health conditions like addiction to drugs or depression. Counseling for families and couples can help loved ones cope better with ADHD.
CBT is an effective treatment for ADHD in adults that can be combined with medication. It helps patients identify and overcome unhealthy patterns of thinking, like all-or-nothing thinking, magnifying mistakes, and minimizing accomplishments. These thoughts can lead to procrastination, an impulsive attitude, and issues with interpersonal relationships. CBT can also teach patients to use coping strategies, such as planning, goal setting, and organizational skills.
Other strategies to cope with adult ADHD include keeping a daily schedule and working out. A good night's rest can improve focus and reduce irritability. The practice of mindfulness meditation can enhance emotional regulation and impulse control. A recent study showed that a cognitive-behavioral approach using mindfulness meditation training, CBT, and interpersonal psychotherapy reduced symptoms of ADHD.
It is important to understand that ADHD can affect all aspects of your life, including your personal and professional relationships. It can lead to problems with money, school or work, as well as with family. It can be challenging to keep your self-esteem in check. It can also result in chronic burnout and anxiety disorders, mood disorders and sleep problems. These issues can increase your ADHD symptoms and affect your relationships with friends, family, and relationships. You can seek out an therapist with ADHD expertise to assist you in overcoming these issues.
Support groups
A support group can be an excellent way to get acquainted with others who suffer from ADHD. These groups offer a wealth of information and tips from those who have suffered from ADHD for many years. They can also offer emotional support. Many support groups are run by professional counselors who specialize in treating ADHD. Others are run by volunteers. There are also online and virtual support groups.
When choosing a support group it is important to choose one that's safe and reliable. Find an account on social media that has been verified by the company. It is recommended to use accounts that are associated with the larger organizations that you can trust. It is also crucial to find out whether the group is peer-led or professionally-facilitated. Although peer-led groups are effective however, they may not have the resources or knowledge required to tackle complex problems and challenges. Professional facilitators provide structure, guidance, and specialized knowledge to improve the quality of a group.
Certain support groups offer a variety of activities and events such as meetings, workshops and webinars. They may also provide coaching services. In addition to providing assistance, these groups could provide valuable information on treatments and medications for ADHD. Many of these groups also have a directory of local ADHD experts. You can also locate a group that matches your interests if seeking specific assistance. There are groups for parents of ADHD children and adults suffering from ADHD/ADD.
In addition to joining a support network, you can talk to your family and friends about the diagnosis. It's recommended to tell co-workers, supervisors and teachers about your condition. This will make them aware of your unique needs and may help them to help you at work or school. Additionally, you could request that they make accommodations to accommodate your needs, such as making you work longer for specific tasks. This is a significant step to strengthen your relationships with those close to you. But, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified medical expert for the most accurate medical information.