How to Treat ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD get relief from medications. Stimulants such as methylphenidate or amphetamine increase the levels of certain brain chemicals.
Counseling can help you deal with the issues that ADHD causes at school, at work and in relationships. Therapy can help family members to support their loved ones.
Medications
Adults and children with ADHD can benefit from taking medication to improve their ability control impulses, plan ahead and concentrate. Psychostimulants are believed to increase and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They also can reduce the symptoms of ADHD within a short amount 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 have additional ingredients that help to reduce appetite and promote sleep. These medications can trigger many side effects, such as the loss of appetite and stomach upset, insomnia, and weight loss. It's important to discuss these issues with your doctor before beginning treatment.
For those who suffer from co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders, the likelihood of consuming stimulant drugs is higher than that of people who don't suffer from a mental health issue. It is essential to collaborate with your healthcare professional 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 adjustments as necessary.
Medications like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and antidepressants are available "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults. These medications target two neurotransmitters within the brain: norepinephrine and dopamine, which can boost concentration. They could be a good treatment option when you've tried stimulants, but found them to be ineffective or too bothersome, or if you have a history of substance abuse.
Non-stimulant medications are also available to treat ADHD in adults. However they aren't as common as stimulants. They generally have a lower risk of side effects like agitation or insomnia, however all medications have 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 and how to manage anger, stress and frustration. Therapists can help you learn to set realistic goals and persist in achieving them, increase your focus and control the impulsive behavior of your child, and also develop better interpersonal relationships. BetterHelp is an online service provides you with licensed, reputable therapy professionals who can assist with ADHD and other disorders such as anxiety or depression.
Counseling
If you suffer from adult ADHD, you could benefit from counseling services to help you manage your symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life. These can include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and education about the disorder, and acquiring skills to become more successful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one common method of treatment that can be paired with medications to treat ADHD. CBT helps you change your negative patterns of thinking and behavior that cause issues in your daily life. It can also improve your focus and memory, and help you get better control over your emotions and impulses.
If your ADHD symptoms are affecting your relationships, you may need marriage or family counseling. Your therapist will help you learn how to improve your communication skills and problem-solving. In addition, family members can learn to help you. CBT can help boost your self-esteem, and boost your organizational skills to make you feel more confident. If you're having trouble finding a therapist using a telehealth provider like Talkspace. The online platform provides subscription-based mental health services that include therapy for ADHD and other disorders. You can communicate with a therapist via audio, video or text messages. The company offers a monthly plan with unlimited messages and a guaranteed response from your therapist 5 days a week.
To manage ADHD it is necessary to have patience and persistence. If you have a difficult time remembering appointments or making deadlines, consider setting reminders on your phone or computer. If you're unable manage your symptoms, speak to your doctor about taking medication or exploring alternative treatments.
It is crucial to find a therapist who recognizes the unique challenges you face with ADHD. Find a therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD and can be confident in. A good therapist must have a caring and non-judgmental attitude and be willing to hear your concerns. Avoid a therapist who does not pay attention to you or fails to maintain eye contact.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders provides a variety of resources for adults with ADHD. treat adhd has educational materials, support groups, webinars, and classes. There is also an index of specialists who specialize in this condition.
Self-help
Many people who suffer from ADHD can make positive changes in their daily routines, learn to make use of their strengths and develop strategies to manage their symptoms. These abilities can help people work more efficiently, remain organized, and communicate with others better. Some of these strategies can also reduce stress and improve their sense of self-worth. These self-help tools aren't easy fixes however, with time and practice, they can reduce some of the most challenging aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is a common method of treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. It can include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which assists patients understand and change unhelpful habits of thought and behavior. It also addresses other mental health issues such as depression or substance abuse. Marital and family counseling can also help loved ones cope with the difficulties of living with ADHD.
CBT is a well-researched treatment for adult ADHD and can be used in conjunction with medication. It helps patients recognize and challenge negative thoughts, which could include all-or-nothing thinking, focusing on mistakes, and downplaying accomplishments. These habits can lead to procrastination, impulsive behavior, and trouble with interpersonal relationships. CBT can help patients develop strategies for coping, such as goal setting, planning and the ability to organize.
Other strategies to cope with adult ADHD include keeping a routine and working out. Getting enough rest can help increase focus and decrease the amount of irritability. Meditation can help improve emotional regulation and control of impulses. A recent study showed that a cognitive-behavioral method involving mindfulness meditation training CBT, mindfulness, and inter-personal psychotherapy improved symptoms of ADHD.
It is important to remember that ADHD affects every aspect of your life, not just your personal and professional relationships. It can cause problems with school, money and work, as well as family. It is difficult to maintain a sense of self-worth. It can also cause chronic burnout and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and sleep problems. These problems can worsen your ADHD symptoms and affect your relationships with friends, family, and relationships. You can consult a therapist with ADHD expertise to assist you with these issues.
Support groups
A support group is an excellent way to connect with other people with ADHD. These groups offer an abundance of advice and information from those who have lived with ADHD for many years. They can 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 online and virtual support groups.
When selecting a support group it is essential to find one that is safe and reliable. Find social media accounts that have been validated by an organization. It is recommended to use accounts that are associated with the larger organizations that you can trust. It's also important to find out whether the group is peer-led or professionally managed. While peer-led groups are efficient however, they may not have the resources or expertise required to address complex issues and challenges. A professional facilitator can offer guidance, structure and knowledge that will improve the quality of the group.
Some support groups offer various activities and events, such as meetings, workshops, webinars and coaching services. In addition to providing assistance, these groups could also offer valuable information on treatments and medications for ADHD. A lot of these groups offer an extensive list of local ADHD professionals. You can also find a group based on your interests if you are seeking specific assistance. For example there are groups that specialize in parenting ADHD children or for adults who suffer from neurodivergence or ADD/ADHD.
You can also speak to your family and friends about the diagnosis. You should also tell your co-workers and supervisors about your health condition. This will help them understand your specific needs and help them to help you at work or school. Additionally, you can request accommodations to accommodate your needs like providing you with more time for specific tasks. This can be an important step to improve your relationships with those close to you. Always consult an experienced healthcare professional for the most accurate information.