How to Treat ADHD
Many people with ADHD find relief through medication. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine boost and balance the levels of certain brain chemicals.
Counseling can help you overcome the challenges ADHD causes in your work, at school and in your relationships. Therapy can teach family members to support their loved ones.
Medications
Many kids and adults suffering from ADHD benefit from medications to help improve their ability to concentrate, manage impulses and plan ahead. These psychostimulants appear to balance and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They also can 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 medications contain additional ingredients that reduce appetite and promote sleeping. These medications can cause various adverse reactions, such as the loss of appetite, stomach upsets, insomnia and weight loss. Before starting treatment, it is important to discuss these possible side effects with your doctor.
Adults with co-occurring ADHD/substance use disorders are at a higher risk of abusing stimulant medication than those without a mental illness. It is crucial to cooperate with your healthcare provider to understand the characteristics and needs of the different extended release stimulant preparations. It can be beneficial to track the effects of the medication on your daily activities, so that you and your healthcare provider can make adjustments as necessary.
Medications like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and antidepressants may be prescribed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults. These medications work by enhancing concentration through two neurotransmitters found in the brain that are norepinephrine (a stimulant) and dopamine (an antidepressant). They could be a suitable treatment option when you've tried stimulants, but have found them to be not effective or uncomfortable, or if you have a history of substance abuse.
Non-stimulant medications are also available for treating ADHD in adults, however they haven't been around longer than stimulants. They are generally associated with less risk of side effects like agitation and insomnia, however all medications have some risks. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medications include atomoxetine (Strattera) Intuniv (guanfacine XR), Kapvay (clonidine XR) and Qelbree (viloxazine).
Therapy can teach you or your child strategies to manage the symptoms of ADHD, including how to manage stress, anger and frustration. behavioral interventions for adhd can teach you how to set realistic goals and stay on track in achieving them. They can also help you improve your concentration and control of your impulsive behavior, as well as improve your interpersonal relationships. BetterHelp, an online service that connects you with licensed and certified therapists, can assist you those suffering from ADHD depression, ADD, or anxiety.
Counseling
Counseling services can assist you in managing ADHD symptoms and lead more successfully in adulthood. These services can include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and education on the disorder, and learning skills to be more successful. CBT is a common treatment for ADHD that can be combined with medications. CBT assists you in changing negative thinking patterns and behaviors that cause problems in your everyday life. It can also help you improve your memory, focus and emotions.
You may require family therapy or marriage counseling if your ADHD symptoms impact your relationships. Your therapist will show you how to improve your communication skills and problem solving. Family members can learn to support you. CBT can help boost your self-esteem and increase your organization skills so that you feel more confident. If you're having trouble finding a therapist, think about using a telehealth program like Talkspace. This online platform offers 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 provides an annual plan that includes unlimited messaging with a guarantee of response from your therapist 5 days every week.
Managing managing your ADHD requires patience and persistence. If you're having a hard recalling appointments or meeting deadlines, you can set reminders on your smartphone or computer. If you are unable to manage your symptoms, speak with your physician about medications or other treatment options.
It is crucial to find a therapist who understands your unique challenges associated with ADHD. Choose a therapist with years of experience treating adults with ADHD, and one you can be confident in. A good therapist will have an open, compassionate attitude and be willing to listen to your concerns. Avoid a therapist who does not pay attention to you or who doesn't keep eye contact.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders has many sources for adults suffering from ADHD. The website has educational materials as well as support groups, webinars, and classes. There is also an index of specialists who specialize in the condition.
Self-help
Many people who suffer from ADHD can make positive adjustments to their routines learn to utilize their strengths, and devise strategies to manage their symptoms. These abilities can help them work more efficiently, keep their organization, and interact better with other people. Certain techniques can also help to reduce stress in the day and boost the self-esteem of a person. These self-help services are not instant solutions but with time and practice they can help reduce some of the most difficult aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is one of the most common treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a method to help patients understand and alter harmful thoughts and behavior. It also addresses other mental health issues such as depression or substance abuse. Counseling for couples and families can assist loved ones in coping better with ADHD.
CBT is a well-researched treatment for adults suffering from ADHD and can be used in conjunction with medication. It helps patients recognize and challenge unhealthy thoughts, such as all-or-nothing thinking, magnifying mistakes, and minimizing achievements. These behaviors can lead to procrastination an impulsive attitude, and issues with interpersonal relationships. CBT can teach patients strategies for coping, such as goal setting, planning, and the ability to organize.
Other strategies for dealing with adult ADHD include identifying and implementing healthy sleep patterns, keeping an ongoing schedule, and working out. Sleeping enough can help improve focus and reduce anger. The practice of mindfulness meditation can improve emotional regulation and control. A recent study showed that a cognitive-behavioral method involving mindfulness meditation, CBT, and interpersonal psychotherapy improved symptoms of ADHD.
It is important to remember that ADHD affects every aspect of your life, including professional and personal relationships. It can cause problems with school, finances or work, as well as with family. It is difficult to keep your self-esteem in check. Additionally, it could result in chronic stress and burnout as well as mood disorders, anxiety, and sleep problems. These issues can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and have negative effects on your family friends, friendships, and relationships. To overcome these challenges you can seek help from a specialist in ADHD.
Support groups
A support group is a great way to meet people who have ADHD. They provide a wealth of knowledge and advice from those who have experienced ADHD over many years. They can also provide emotional assistance. Many support groups run by professional counselors that specialize in treating ADHD. Some are run by volunteers. There are virtual and online support groups.
When selecting a support organization, it's important to find one that's safe and reliable. Find a social media account that has been verified by the company. It's best to use accounts that are associated with the larger organizations you trust. It is also crucial to know if the group is peer-led or professionally managed. Although peer-led groups are effective, they may lack the resources or expertise needed to solve complex issues and challenges. A professional facilitator can offer structure, guidance and specialized expertise that can enhance the effectiveness of the group.
Certain support groups offer a variety of activities and events, such as meetings, workshops and webinars. They can also offer coaching services. In addition to offering assistance, these groups could provide valuable information on medications and treatments for ADHD. Many of these groups also have a list of local ADHD professionals. If you're looking for a specific kind of support You can also consider finding a group that is centered around your preferences. For instance there are groups that specialize in parenting ADHD children, or for adults with neurodivergence and ADD/ADHD.
In addition to joining a support network, you can also talk to family members and friends about your diagnosis. It's important to tell co-workers, supervisors and teachers about your condition. This will help them better know your requirements and make it easier for you to be supported at work or in school. You can also ask them to accommodate your symptoms by allowing you to have more time to complete certain tasks. This can be an important step to strengthen your relationships with those close to you. However, you should always consult a licensed healthcare professional for the most up-to-date medical information.