How to Treat ADHD
Many people with ADHD get relief from medication. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine increase the levels of certain brain chemicals.
Counseling can help you manage the issues ADHD causes in your work, at school and in your relationships. Therapy can also teach family members how to help their loved ones.
Medicines
Many kids and adults suffering from ADHD benefit from medications to improve their ability to concentrate, control impulses and plan ahead. Psychostimulants are believed to balance and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to 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). Certain of these medications contain additional ingredients that help to reduce appetite and improve sleep. These medications can trigger many side effects, such as the loss of appetite and stomach upset, insomnia and weight loss. Before beginning treatment, it's important to discuss the potential possible side effects with your doctor.
For those who suffer from co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders, the likelihood of abusing stimulant medications is higher than for those who do not suffer from a mental health issue. Therefore, it is essential to consult with your healthcare professional to align the characteristics of the different extended release stimulant medications to your personal needs. It may be helpful to keep track of your daily activities as well as the effects of your medication to collaborate with your healthcare professional to make any necessary adjustments.
The use of medications like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and antidepressants may be prescribed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults. These medications focus on two neurotransmitters that are present in the brain: norepinephrine and dopamine, which can enhance concentration. They may be an appropriate treatment option in the event that you've tried stimulants but have found them to be not effective or uncomfortable or in the case of a history of substance abuse.
Non-stimulant drugs are also available to treat ADHD in adults. However, they are not as popular as stimulants. They are generally associated with a lower risk of side effects like agitation or insomnia, however all medications come with some risks. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medications include atomoxetine (Strattera) Intuniv (guanfacine XR), Kapvay (clonidine XR) and Qelbree (viloxazine).
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 also teach you to set reasonable goals and stick to them, improve your ability to focus and control impulsive behaviors, and develop better relationships. BetterHelp is an online service that connects you with accredited, licensed psychotherapists who can assist you with ADHD as well as other conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Counseling
If you have adult ADHD If you suffer from adult ADHD, you may benefit from counseling to assist you in managing your symptoms and achieve a more successful life. These can include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and information about the disorder, or developing skills to become more successful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular method of treatment that can be combined with medication to treat ADHD. CBT will help you change negative habits of thinking and behavior that lead to problems in your everyday life. It can also help you improve your focus, memory, and mood.
If treatment of add in adults affect your relationships, you may need marriage or family counseling. Your therapist will show you how to improve communication and problem-solving. Family members can learn to assist you. CBT can help boost your self-esteem and increase your organizational skills, making you feel more confident. Talkspace is a great option when you're having trouble finding an therapist. This online platform provides mental health care, including therapy for ADHD and others conditions. You can communicate with your Therapist via audio, video or messaging. The company also offers a monthly plan that offers unlimited messaging with a guaranteed response from your therapist 5 days seven days a week.
Controlling managing your ADHD requires patience and perseverance. If you have a difficult time remembering appointments or making deadlines, try setting reminders on your smartphone or computer. If you're unable manage your symptoms, speak to your doctor about taking medication or looking into other treatments.
It's important to find a therapist who understands your unique challenges associated with ADHD. Be sure to choose one who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD and whom you trust. A good therapist will have a compassionate, nonjudgmental attitude and will listen to your concerns. Avoid a therapist who doesn't make eye contact or listens to you carefully.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders offers many resources to people 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 this condition.
Self-help
Many people who suffer from ADHD can make positive changes to their daily routine Learn to make use of their strengths, and devise strategies to manage their symptoms. These abilities can help them work more efficiently, maintain organization and be more effective in interacting with others. Certain of these strategies may aid in reducing stress levels and increase a person's sense of self-worth. These self-help services don't provide quick fixes, but they can help in reducing some of the more challenging aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is among the most popular forms of treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. It may involve cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which assists patients recognize and alter harmful behavior patterns and thoughts. It can also address issues relating to other mental health conditions, such as depression or substance misuse. Counseling for couples and families can assist loved ones in coping better with ADHD.
CBT is a highly effective treatment for ADHD in adults and can be combined along with medication. It teaches patients to recognize and challenge negative thoughts, which can include the all-or-nothing mentality, magnifying mistakes, and minimizing achievements. These behaviors can cause procrastination, impulsive behavior, and trouble with interpersonal relationships. CBT can also help patients to use coping strategies, such as setting goals, planning and organizing skills.
Other strategies for dealing with adult ADHD include identifying and practicing healthy sleeping patterns, observing an ongoing schedule, and working out. A good night's rest can help improve focus and reduce anger. Meditation can help improve emotional regulation and control of impulses. Recent research has found that a cognitive-behavioral method that combined mindfulness meditation CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, and mindfulness helped to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD affects every aspect of your life, not just your professional and personal relationships. It can lead to issues with money, work, school, and family which makes it difficult to maintain a sense of self-worth. It can also result in chronic burnout, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and sleep problems. These problems can worsen ADHD symptoms and cause an adverse impact on your family friends, friendships, and relationships. To overcome these difficulties you can seek out the help of a therapist who specializes in ADHD.
Support groups
A support group is an excellent way to get acquainted with people who have ADHD. These groups offer a wealth of information and advice from people who have experienced ADHD over many years. They can also offer emotional support. Many support groups are run by professional counselors who specialize in treating ADHD. Some are run by volunteers. There are also online and virtual support groups.
When selecting a support organization it is important to choose one that is secure and reliable. Search for accounts on social media that have been validated by an organization. It is recommended to use accounts on social media that are affiliated with larger organizations you trust. You should also find out if the group is peer-led or professionally led. While peer-led groups are efficient but they might not have the resources or expertise required to tackle complex problems and challenges. A professional facilitator can offer guidance, structure and expertise that can enhance the overall quality of the group.
Some support groups offer different activities and events such as meetings, workshops and webinars. They may also provide coaching services. These groups provide assistance and useful information on medications and treatments. Many of these groups also have a directory of local ADHD professionals. If you're looking for a specific type of help you could also consider finding a group that is specifically focused on your preferences. There are groups for parents of ADHD children and adults suffering from ADHD/ADD.
In addition to joining a support group, you can talk to your family and friends about the diagnosis. It is also important to inform your supervisors and coworkers about your condition. This will help them better understand your requirements and make it easier for you to be aided at school or at work. In addition, you can request that they make accommodations for your symptoms, such as giving you more time for specific tasks. This can be a big step towards improving your relationships with those closest to you. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider to get the most accurate information.