How to Treat ADHD in Adults
ADHD symptoms can persist into adulthood. They may look different at this age however, the symptoms are the same.
These include trouble getting adequate sleep as well as a tendency to toss and turn during the night, or waking up frequently. It can also be a problem remembering things, which makes it difficult to study for an exam.
Treatment options
Many people with ADHD utilize a variety of treatment options to help improve symptoms. Most often, these include medication, therapy, exercise, nutrition, and support groups. The best approach is to test one option at a time, so that you can see what effects it has on your symptoms before making a change to something else. It's a good idea consult with a professional who is familiar with the different treatment options.
Psychotherapy (psychological counseling) can help adults with ADHD better understand their condition and develop coping strategies. Cognitive behavioral therapy, specifically can help you identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior. It can be particularly helpful for those suffering from anxiety or depression that are frequently associated with ADHD in adults.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from counseling for behavior which can help them develop organizational and planning strategies to address issues at home or at work. Behavioral therapy is also a good way to learn about sensory regulation, stress management and other issues that affect daily functioning. Family and marital therapy can be particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD and can improve communication and problem-solving.
The majority of people suffering from ADHD are treated initially with stimulant drugs like amphetamines and methylphenidate. They are effective in boosting neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps regulate brain pathways that control concentration. They can be highly efficient, and have been shown to reduce the severity of ADHD symptoms in a myriad of peer-reviewed studies. They are controlled substances with an extremely high risk of abuse. They shouldn't be used by people who have glaucoma or a history of heart disease, or are taking medications such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
Behavioral therapy can be especially helpful for adults with ADHD who have difficulty coping with the demands of everyday life, such as not remembering appointments or losing keys. It can help you learn strategies for dealing with stress and boost your self-esteem and confidence by helping you recognize and modify behaviors that don't serve you. It's a fantastic tool to improve your social support system and learn how to manage relationships.
Medication
Children who require medication for ADHD are often effective for adults as well. However, because your body, brain and symptoms have changed since you were a kid, the medications may work differently for you now. The majority of adults use a combination of treatments and medications.
Stimulants boost the levels of a specific chemical in your brain. This can help different parts of your brain function more efficiently. They are typically the first option for adults with ADHD. Antidepressants are also beneficial for certain individuals. They increase the levels of the chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They do not improve concentration as much as stimulants, but they can help reduce impulsive or aggressive behaviors.
The dosage is best adjusted to get the most effective results. Your doctor will take into consideration your age, previous treatment history and other factors when determining the best dosage and medication for you. The most effective medication is taken regularly and at the same time each day. It is important to inform your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, including prescription medications and supplements.
Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from anxiety or depression. These conditions, along with ADHD can be treated with antidepressants and Clonidine. Avoid combining stimulant medications with alcohol or other depressants. They can have a negative effect on your heart rate and blood pressure.
Other treatments for adults with ADHD include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and learning strategies to improve your life and relationships. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you develop specific skills to change your negative thinking patterns and manage your behavior. ADHD can lead to problems in your relationships. Marital and family therapies can help.
It's important that you talk to your co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. A majority of people will offer adjustments to aid your success at work and in school. It's also helpful to join an ADHD support group so that you can connect with others who have the condition and gain knowledge about the resources available to help manage it. These are available in many communities and online.
Counseling
Counseling is a typical option for treating ADHD that can cause problems in family relationships and life. In addition to offering support, counseling can help families understand the condition and help them cope with it. Certain types of counseling include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which assists people to change their negative patterns of thinking. It also teaches people how to identify triggers and ways to avoid them. Many people with ADHD struggle with impulse control and emotional control, so CBT is a great way to improve these skills.
Often, adults adhd treatment is usually a combination of psychotherapy and medications. A comprehensive treatment plan should be tailored to each person's requirements, taking into consideration previous treatments and the costs of specialized services. Many people suffering from ADHD suffer from co-occurring disorders, and it is important to address the two simultaneously. Some people find group therapy or online counselling to be less expensive and more practical than psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy can help people manage their symptoms better and deal with their anger. It can also teach strategies for coping that include mindfulness and emotional regulation. It can also enhance their executive function by aiding them in recognizing their emotions and behaviors. This is particularly important for those who suffer from ADHD subtypes who are not attentive.
Some adults with ADHD have found that diet and supplements can help reduce their symptoms. However, it is important to consult an experienced medical professional prior to taking any supplements. These supplements may interact with other medications or cause negative effects. A person who suffers from ADHD must also be careful when selecting their food choices because too much stimulation can cause them to become overwhelmed.
Behavioral coaching is a second treatment option that concentrates on improving your daily routines, prioritizing tasks and managing money. It is a kind of therapy that is provided by a professional who has been trained in the field, for instance, an ADHD Coach, who focuses in educating people on practical methods to improve daily living. Unlike a therapist, a coach can often come to your home or talk to you via phone.
Self-help
Many people find it beneficial to explore self-help techniques in addition to medications. Exercise, diet and sleeping habits are some of the techniques. These methods can aid you in managing your symptoms and focus. You can also build skills that will improve your productivity and relationships. These strategies require time and effort, however they can be a major influence on your quality of living.
Adult ADHD can have severe consequences when it is not treated, such as poor academic performance, problems at work or in school, tensions with family and friends, high rates of drug abuse, and elevated stress levels. It can also lead to anxiety disorders, depression, and even suicidal ideas or behavior.
Counseling and medication are the most effective treatments for ADHD in adults. Counseling is a type of talk therapy in which you meet with a therapist either in person or by phone to discuss your problems and learn positive strategies for coping. Additionally there are a number of online resources that can connect you with a counselor who can assist you in dealing with your ADHD symptoms.
Some people with ADHD can control their symptoms by relaxing and meditation techniques. Practicing these exercises can increase the capacity to concentrate and decrease impulsivity, which are both common in people with ADHD. Some of these strategies are based in mindfulness, a type of meditation that helps patients become more aware of their external and internal environment.
Some people with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT). CBT is a kind of talk therapy that can provide you with new techniques to manage your behavior and modify negative thinking patterns. It can be performed with a therapist over the phone or in person, and can help you deal problems at home or at working.
Another method of treating adult ADHD is to spend more time in the outdoors. Research shows that people who are more active have less symptoms of ADHD, such as trouble concentrating or sleeplessness. Join a team sport, or find a hobby you like, such as swimming or hiking.