Adult ADHD Treatment

Most adults with ADHD improve through a combination of medication and behavioral strategies, lifestyle changes and counseling. Doctors will review a person's medical history and determine if other disorders, such as depression or an anxiety disorder might be causing symptoms.

Often, stimulants are the first drugs that people attempt. Other medications include atomoxetine, non-stimulant (Strattera), and certain antidepressants.

Medication

Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by taking stimulant medication. These drugs adjust the levels of chemical messengers which control your attention in your brain. These are norepinephrine (the chemical messenger) and dopamine. They work by increasing the amount of norepinephrine present in your brain, which improves concentration. They also reduce the brain's natural tendency to draw in dopamine, which reduces hyperactivity and impulsiveness.

Medications can improve your symptoms and enable you to be more productive at school, work or in other areas of your life. They can't solve all your problems. There are a few adverse effects such as weight loss, irritability or sleep problems. Consult your physician about the potential side effects of any medication that you are prescribed.

Both stimulants and nonstimulants can be used to treat ADHD in adults. Your doctor will suggest the appropriate dosage and medication for you based on your individual situation, symptoms, and health background. Some people aren't able to respond to stimulant medications in any way and others may experience no reaction at all.

There are three kinds of ADHD medications that are immediate-release, extended-release and Atomoxetine. Immediate-release medication can be taken as required. They typically peak 30 to 60 minutes after intake and then quickly wear off. Extended-release drugs can last up to 16 hours and are taken every day. They aid in symptom management. People who take extended release ADHD medications often supplement them with an instant-release dose late in the evening or afternoon.

Atomoxetine is the first non-stimulant approved to treat ADHD among adults. It works by limiting certain chemicals that control mood and attention in the brain. It is a more long-lasting and sustained release medication than other ADHD medication, like Bupropion (Wellbutrin), that works by increasing norepinephrine, and dopamine, within your brain.

Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine or clonidine or other drugs that control the part of the brain that is responsible for your attention. These medications can be beneficial for people with ADHD and anxiety or tics. These are referred to as cholinergic drugs and are available by prescription only from your doctor or psychiatrist.

Therapy

Therapy is often included in the treatment of ADHD, along with medication. Talk therapy can help your family members and help you understand how ADHD affects your relationships and daily life. It can also teach you strategies and coping techniques to manage your ADHD symptoms.

For example therapy can teach you techniques for organizing to help you stay on top of your tasks and maintain control over your surroundings. A therapist can help you learn the art of problem-solving and conflict resolution, as well strategies to improve focus and concentration. You can learn yoga, breathing exercises, meditation or other techniques for relaxation to help you calm down and improve your mood. This is also referred to as hypnotherapy and biofeedback.

A therapist can assist you to develop coping strategies to deal with emotional and behavioral issues common in adults with ADHD. A therapist can offer, for instance, cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a talking therapy that teaches you how your beliefs and thoughts affect your behavior and feelings. CBT is particularly effective at dealing with executive functioning issues related to ADHD and other disorders, such as difficulty in organizing, planning and managing time.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is another option. It assists you in changing the way you react to difficult emotions. DBT includes mindfulness, which teaches you how to observe your thoughts without judgement and regulate your emotions that helps you manage distressing emotions, and training in interpersonal skills. It is a program for people who suffer from comorbid conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders.

Be aware that it may take a while for the body to adjust to new medications. You might continue to have issues at work and home until you've developed enough skills to cope with your symptoms. In the meantime, you can try implementing small changes in your lifestyle to help you deal with.

For example, if you're forgetful and impulsive, ask your boss or professor for accommodations that can aid you in your studies. Similarly, you can request family members and friends to accommodate your ADHD. You might also look into family therapy or marriage counseling that can assist you and your loved ones learn to communicate better and comprehend each other's challenges.

Education

Psychosocial therapy for adults can help reduce symptoms and improve performance. These treatments can include different therapies, and can be provided in person or via the internet. These treatments can be paired with medication to get the best results.

A diagnosis is the first step in treating ADHD. A qualified mental health professional will use scales and semi-structured interviews to discover the details of the individual's difficulties. Then, they can identify the issue and offer an appropriate treatment plan.

Talk therapy can help people with ADHD deal with their issues and manage the symptoms. Psychoeducation is one of the methods that help patients understand their condition and its effects on school, work and relationships. Other therapies aim at improving the ability to manage emotions and organizational skills. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help people change negative beliefs and behaviors that may hinder their progress.

Marriage and family therapy can assist in addressing the issues ADHD can bring in personal and professional relationships. It can help couples and families improve their communication and identify the patterns that can cause conflicts. It can also help them discover ways to improve their communication and create a positive outlook for the future.

Behavioral therapy can help adults with ADHD improve their self-esteem and develop a more realistic attitude about their capabilities. It can teach them how to better manage their finances, time, and organize themselves and also control their impulsive behaviors and learn to better manage stress and anger. These skills can be taught in a group setting or in a private session with the psychotherapist.

Meditation, also known as mindfulness, can also be a useful form of therapy for adult ADHD. It can help people gain control over their lives, by teaching them to focus on the moment and be more aware. It can be done in a group setting or with a therapist and it can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as CBT and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.

Other treatment options for adults with ADHD include cognitive-behavioral therapies and interpersonal therapy, which focuses on building interpersonal skills. Some people with ADHD use complementary health approaches to manage their symptoms, including diet changes and supplements. Although these strategies aren't scientifically proven to reduce ADHD however, some find them beneficial.

Support

You may feel overwhelmed by your ADHD symptoms as an adult. Everything from paying off bills to keeping deadlines at work to managing relationships and keeping your house clean is a challenge when ADHD symptoms become more severe. Your symptoms can also impact your self-esteem and make it difficult to comprehend what's going on with you. It is important to seek treatment in order to overcome your difficulties and live an active lifestyle.


Many adults suffering from ADHD find that medications are effective but they do not treat all symptoms or improve your quality of life. It is crucial to choose a combination treatment plan for adult adhd, which includes therapy and medication.

Therapy can help you to manage your ADHD symptoms and develop strategies for coping. It can help you learn how to manage your emotions, and also your relationships. Relaxation techniques can also help you reduce stress and improve your concentration. You should also seek support from your family and friends. Talk therapy can help you discover how to communicate more effectively and manage anger and impulsive behavior.

There are many kinds of talk therapy. treating adhd in adults include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as metacognitive and interpersonal therapy. CBT is a tried and tested method that helps you develop better strategies for coping and alter negative thinking patterns. Metacognitive therapy can assist you to improve organizational skills, planning and time management. It can also help you to overcome mental distortions that can lead to poor mood and a sense of a lack of options.

A recent study of a cognitive remediation program found that the program included small group therapy sessions, coaching, along with exercises. This improved quality of life, and decreased symptoms (Stevenson and al 2002). This type of therapy is typically more affordable than individual psychotherapy. This type of therapy permits you to have sessions with others who are experiencing similar issues, which can be supportive.

There are numerous online resources that can help you find an adult adhd therapist or a support group. Some of these sites offer virtual sessions through chatrooms or video chat, while others offer local meetings. These services are increasing in popularity, and research is ongoing on their effectiveness.