How to Treat ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD find relief through medication. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine boost and balance the levels of certain brain chemicals.
Counseling can help you manage the challenges that ADHD creates at work, school and in relationships. Therapy can also teach family members how to help their loved family members.
Medicines
Adults and children with ADHD can benefit from medication to help them control impulses, plan ahead and concentrate. These drugs, also known as psychostimulants, appear to boost and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They also help 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 can reduce appetite and promote sleeping. These medications can cause a number of side effects including weight loss and stomach upsets, insomnia, and weight loss. Before beginning treatment, it is important to discuss the potential adverse effects with your physician.
For those who suffer from co-occurring ADHD and other substance use disorders, the risk of consuming stimulant drugs is greater than for those who do not suffer from mental illness. For this reason, it's important to consult with your healthcare professional to match the characteristics of various extended release stimulant preparations with your individual needs. You may find it helpful to record your daily activities and the effects of your medication to collaborate with your healthcare professional to make any necessary adjustments.
Medications like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and antidepressants may be prescribed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults. These medications target two neurotransmitters within the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine, which can boost concentration. These medications could be a good option when stimulants aren't working or are too annoying, or if there is an history of abuse.
Non-stimulant medicines are also available to treat ADHD in adults, however they've not been around longer than stimulants. They are generally associated with less risk of side effects like agitation or insomnia, however all medications have some dangers. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medications include atomoxetine (Strattera) and Intuniv (guanfacine XR), Kapvay (clonidine XR) and Qelbree (viloxazine).
Therapy can help you or your child learn strategies to manage the symptoms of ADHD and how to manage anger, stress and frustration. Therapists can help you learn to set realistic goals and persist in achieving them. They can also help you improve your concentration and control of the impulsive behavior of your child, and also develop better interpersonal relationships. BetterHelp, which matches you with licensed and accredited therapists, may help you deal those suffering from ADHD depression, ADD, or anxiety.
Counseling
If you suffer from adult ADHD, you may benefit from counseling to assist you in managing your symptoms and achieve a more fulfilling life. These services may include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) as well as information on the disorder, or developing skills to become more successful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular method of treatment that can be used in conjunction with medications to treat ADHD. CBT helps you change negative thinking patterns and behaviors that can cause problems in your daily life. It can also help improve your focus, memory, and emotions.
If your ADHD symptoms affect your relationships, you might require counseling for your family or marriage. The therapist you consult with can teach you techniques to improve your communication skills and problem-solving. Family members can learn how to help you. CBT can help boost your self-esteem, and improve your organizational skills to make you feel more confident. If you have trouble finding a therapist, consider using a telehealth program like Talkspace. The online platform provides subscription-based mental health care that includes therapy for ADHD and other conditions. You can talk to your therapist via video, text, or audio sessions. The company also offers a monthly plan that offers unlimited messaging with a guaranteed response from your therapist seven days a week.
To manage ADHD, you need patience and perseverance. If you're having a hard remembering appointments or meeting deadlines, consider setting reminders on your smartphone or computer. If you're not able to manage your symptoms, talk to your doctor about taking medication or exploring alternative treatments.
It is essential to choose a therapist who is aware of your unique challenges associated with ADHD. Be treating adult add to choose one who has experience treating adults with ADHD and who you are confident in. A good therapist should have an open, compassionate attitude and will be able to listen to your concerns. Be wary of a therapist who does not listen to you or doesn't keep eye contact.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders has many resources for adults with ADHD. Its website offers educational materials, support groups, webinars, and classes. There is also an index of professionals who specialize in the disorder.
Self-help
Many people with ADHD can make positive adjustments to their routines, learn how to use their strengths, and devise strategies to manage their symptoms. These skills can help people work more efficiently, be organized, and interact with others better. Certain of these strategies may also help to reduce stress in the day and boost a person's sense of self-worth. These self-help tools aren't quick fixes however, with time and effort they can reduce some of the most difficult aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is one of the most popular treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. It may involve cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which assists patients recognize and alter harmful habits of thought and behavior. It can also address issues related to other mental health conditions, such as addiction or depression. Family and marital counseling can help family members cope with the difficulties of living with ADHD.
CBT is a well-studied treatment for adults suffering from ADHD and can be used in conjunction with medication. It teaches patients to identify and challenge negative thoughts, which can include all-or-nothing thinking, focusing on mistakes, and minimizing achievements. These thoughts can lead to impulsive and procrastination behaviors and also problems with interpersonal relationships. CBT can teach patients how to cope, including goal setting, planning and the ability to organize.
Other strategies to cope with adult ADHD include keeping a daily schedule and working out. Sleeping enough can help improve focus and reduce anger. Practicing mindfulness meditation can also enhance emotional regulation and control. Recent research found that a cognitive behavior approach combining mindfulness meditation training, CBT and interpersonal psychotherapy helped improve ADHD symptoms.
It is important to understand that ADHD can affect all aspects of your life, including your professional and personal relationships. It can create problems with work, finances, school, and even family which makes it difficult to maintain a sense of self-worth. It can also cause chronic stress as well as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and sleep issues. These problems can worsen your ADHD symptoms and impact your family, friendships and relationships. You can seek out a therapist who has ADHD expertise to help you overcome these challenges.
Support groups
A support group is a great way to connect with others who suffer from ADHD. They provide a wealth of information and advice from people who have lived with ADHD for a long time. They also provide emotional assistance. Many support groups are run by professional counselors who specialize in treating ADHD. Some are run by volunteers. There are also virtual and online support groups.
It is crucial to choose an account that is safe and reliable. Look for social media accounts that have been verified by an organization. It is best to choose accounts that are linked to the larger organizations that you can trust. You should also find out if the group is peer-led, or professionally facilitated. While peer-led groups can be effective however, they may not have the resources or expertise to tackle complex issues and issues. Professional facilitators can provide guidance, structure and expertise that can enhance the effectiveness of the group.
A few support groups provide a variety of activities and events, such as webinars, workshops, and meetings. They may also offer coaching services. They provide assistance and information about medications and treatments. Many of these groups also have a list of local ADHD experts. You may also locate a group that matches your interests if you are looking for specific support. For example there are groups that specialize in parenting ADHD children or for adults who suffer from ADD/ADHD and neurodivergence.
It is also possible to talk to your family and close friends about the diagnosis. It is also advisable to inform your supervisors and coworkers about your health condition. This will help them better comprehend your needs and will make it easier for you to receive support at work or in school. You can also ask for them to accommodate your needs by giving you more time to complete specific tasks. This can be a big step towards improving your relationships with those who are closest to you. Always consult an experienced healthcare professional to get the most accurate information.