How to Treat ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD are able to get relief from medication. Stimulants, such as methylphenidate and amphetamine, boost and balance levels of certain brain chemicals.
Counseling can help you overcome the issues ADHD causes at work, in school and in your relationships. Therapy can help family members to help their loved ones.
Medicines
Adults and children suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication to help them control impulses, plan ahead and concentrate. These medications, known as psychostimulants, are believed to increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They also help reduce the symptoms of ADHD in a short period 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 of these drugs have additional ingredients that can reduce appetite and promote sleeping. Stimulant medication can have many negative side effects, such as the loss of appetite, stomach upset, insomnia and weight loss. Before beginning treatment, you should discuss these adverse effects with your physician.
Adults with co-occurring ADHD/substance use disorders are at a greater risk of using stimulant medication than those without a mental illness. It is crucial to cooperate with your healthcare provider to match the characteristics and requirements of the various extended release stimulant preparations. It is helpful to record the effects of the medication on your daily activities so that you and your healthcare professional can make any necessary adjustments.
Medicines 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, both of which can improve concentration. They may be an appropriate treatment option if you've tried stimulants and discovered that they were not effective or uncomfortable, or in the case of an addiction history.
Non-stimulant medicines are also available for treating ADHD in adults, but they've not been around as long as the stimulants. They generally have less risk of side effects such as agitation or insomnia, but all drugs have some risks. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medication is atomoxetine (Strattera) Intuniv, (guanfacine), Kapvay, (clonidine) (XR) and Qelbree.
Therapy can help you or your child learn strategies to manage the symptoms of ADHD such as how to manage stress, anger and frustration. Therapists can show you how to establish realistic goals and persevere in achieving them, increase your focus and control your impulsive behavior, as well as develop better interpersonal relationships. BetterHelp is an online service that connects you with licensed, accredited psychotherapists who can assist you with ADHD as well as other conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Counseling
If you suffer from adult ADHD, you may benefit from counseling to assist you in managing your symptoms and live a more successful life. These services can include psychological counseling (psychotherapy), education on the disorder, and acquiring skills to be more successful. CBT is a common treatment for ADHD that can be combined with medications. CBT helps you change negative thinking patterns and behaviors that cause problems in your daily life. It can also help you improve your focus, memory, and even your mood.
If you find that your ADHD symptoms affect your relationships, you might require counseling for your family or marriage. The therapist you consult with can teach you strategies to improve your communication and problem-solving. Family members can learn to assist you. CBT can boost your self-esteem, and boost your organizational skills to make you feel more confident. Talkspace is a good choice if you are having trouble finding an therapist. This online platform provides mental health services, including therapy for ADHD and others conditions. You can communicate with your therapist through messaging, video, or audio sessions. The company offers a monthly plan with unlimited messaging and a response guaranteed by your therapist five days a week.
Managing managing your ADHD requires patience and persistence. Set reminders on your phone or computer if you have trouble remembering deadlines or appointments. If you're not able to manage your symptoms, speak with your physician about medications or other treatments.
It's important to find a therapist who understands your unique challenges with ADHD. Find a therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD, and one you can be confident in. A good therapist should possess a caring and non-judgmental attitude and be able to listen to your concerns. Avoid any therapist who doesn't make eye contact or doesn't listen to you carefully.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders offers many resources to people suffering from ADHD. The website provides educational materials, support groups, webinars and classes. There is also a directory of professionals who specialize in this condition.
Self-help
Many people with ADHD can make positive changes to their daily routines, and learn to use their strengths and develop strategies to control their symptoms. These skills can help people to work more efficiently, remain organized, and communicate with others more effectively. Certain of these strategies may also aid in reducing stress in the day and boost confidence in oneself. These self-help services do not provide quick fixes, but they can help reduce some of the more challenging aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is among the most common methods of treatment for adults with ADHD. It may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which assists patients recognize and alter harmful habits of thought and behavior. It can also address other mental health conditions such as depression or substance abuse. Family and marital counseling can also help family members cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.
CBT is a well-researched treatment for adults with ADHD and can be used in conjunction with medications. It helps patients recognize and challenge negative patterns of thinking, like all-or nothing thinking, magnifying errors, and downplaying accomplishments. These habits can lead to procrastination an impulsive attitude, get more info and issues with interpersonal relationships. CBT can also help patients to use strategies for coping, including planning, goal setting and organizing skills.
Other coping strategies for adult ADHD include identifying and implementing healthy sleep patterns, keeping an ongoing schedule, and working out. A good night's rest can improve focus and reduce anger. Practicing mindfulness meditation can also improve emotional regulation and impulse control. A recent study showed that a cognitive-behavioral approach using mindfulness meditation CBT, mindfulness, and inter-personal psychotherapy reduced symptoms of ADHD.
It is crucial to be aware that ADHD can affect every aspect of your life including your personal and professional relationships. It can lead to problems with school, finances and work, as well as family. It can be challenging to maintain your sense of self-worth. It can also result in chronic stress, anxiety disorders, mood disorders and sleep problems. These problems can worsen ADHD symptoms and cause negative effects on your family friends, relationships, and family. You can find an therapist with ADHD expertise to help you overcome these challenges.
Support groups
A support group is an excellent way to get acquainted with other people with ADHD. These groups provide a wealth of advice and information from people who have lived with ADHD for a long time. They also offer emotional support. Many support groups run by professional counselors that specialize in treating ADHD. Others are run by volunteers. There are also online and virtual support groups.
When selecting a support group it is essential to find one that is safe and reliable. You should look for an account on social media that has been verified by the organization. It is recommended to use accounts on social media that are affiliated with larger organizations you can trust. It is also important to determine if the group is peer-led or professionally led. While peer-led groups are effective but they might not have the resources or knowledge to address complex problems and issues. A professional facilitator offers structure, guidance and specialized knowledge to enhance the effectiveness of an organization.
Some support groups offer various activities and events, such as meetings, workshops, webinars, and coaching services. These groups provide assistance and information about treatments and medications. Many of these groups have a list of local ADHD experts. You may also choose a group based on your interests if you are looking for specific support. There are groups for parents of ADHD children or adults who have ADHD or ADD.
In addition to joining a support group you can talk to family and friends about the diagnosis. It's recommended to inform supervisors, coworkers and teachers about your illness. This will help them know your needs and make it easier for you to receive support at school or at work. You can also ask for them to accommodate your needs by allowing you to have more time to complete specific tasks. This could be a huge step towards enhancing relationships with the people closest to you. However, you should always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional for the most up-to-date medical information.