Treatment of Adult ADHD
Most people with ADHD suffer from mental health problems such as anxiety, substance abuse disorder, or depression. These conditions can affect the effectiveness of ADHD medication.
Psychological counseling aids patients in managing their symptoms and improves relationships. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one kind of counseling that can be used to help patients recognize and change their negative thoughts and behavior.
Medication
Medication is an effective tool for treating adult ADHD. It can help improve focus and ease symptoms, but it's only a part of a complete treatment plan that also includes behavioral therapy and talk therapy strategies. Talk therapy can help you understand more about how ADHD affects you and how you can deal with problems that arise because of your symptoms, like difficulty meeting deadlines at work or relationship difficulties. It can help you recognize negative thinking patterns and change them. Talk therapy can aid in improving your relationships as well as tackle other issues like depression or drug abuse.
Adults are the most likely to use stimulant medications like amphetamines or the methylphenidate drug to treat ADHD. They are available in a variety of forms including extended-release tablets and quick-release capsules. The medication is effective by increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters within your brain. This includes dopamine and norepinephrine. The stimulant drugs can have side effects, such as reduced appetite and weight loss, as well as other health concerns, such as headaches, sleep issues and high blood pressure.
Adults with ADHD can be treated with non-stimulant medication. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an FDA-approved nonstimulant drug that works by enhancing the activity of a different neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. It doesn't possess the abuse potential of stimulant drugs and could take longer to get started.
Some people notice significant improvement in their symptoms when taking ADHD medication. But others experience only limited relief and suffer from a variety of adverse effects. It takes time to find the appropriate dosage and medication for each person. You'll need to visit your GP regularly for routine tests and checkups to monitor the effectiveness of the medication.
Talk therapy
In addition to medications and therapy, talk therapy -- also known as behavioral therapy -- is a treatment option for adults with ADHD that can help you learn how to manage your symptoms. Therapy is usually short-term and you'll be working with a qualified mental health professional. This type of therapy helps to understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It will also help you gain techniques to manage symptoms and improve the quality of your life. It's important to find a provider who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
CBT is a well-established method that helps many adults with ADHD. The therapy teaches you how to change unhealthy thinking patterns such as procrastination or thinking that things are either all or nothing with healthier ones. This type of therapy helps you organize your environment in ways that help you deal with the issues caused by your ADHD.
Behavioral coaching is another method that is focused on practical solutions for everyday challenges. This kind of therapy can help you devise strategies for organizing your work and home environment, prioritizing tasks, and managing money. It can be done in person or over the phone. A lot of coaches come from an industry background and can offer advice on how to manage work-related issues.
Some people who suffer from ADHD are aware that their symptoms are more apparent during certain periods of their lives. This could be due to major life changes, like a new job or childbirth. Some people have reported that their symptoms become less severe as they age.
The good news is that ADHD is easily treatable with the right combination of medication and therapy. The first step is to consult your family doctor. They will assess your health condition and recommend the most effective treatment strategy.
Exercise
Exercise can be a great treatment for ADHD. Besides the obvious physical benefits, it could also enhance your cognitive capabilities and mood. In addition, it can boost the production of vital proteins that regulate the brain's signaling. It also aids in reducing the amygdala's response to hair-triggers, so you are less likely to lose temper in public or even lash out at another driver when you have a road rage episode.
It is crucial to select the workout that matches your interests and tastes. This will keep you motivated and engaged which can be difficult for people with ADHD. For example, if you enjoy team sports, consider joining a league, or even finding an online team. If you don't like the gym, think about exercising at home or in the outdoors. The hum of the gym can trigger sensory overload, and you may become frustrated and disinterested in your workout.
Strength training should be included in the daily routines of those with ADHD as well as cardiovascular exercise. This will provide a more well-balanced workout and improve coordination, which is typically impaired in those with ADHD. Additionally strengthening treatment for adult add can aid those suffering from ADHD focus better.
Adults suffering from ADHD must eat healthy food in addition to exercising regularly. Avoid drinks that are sugary and fast food and eat meals or snacks regularly. Incorporating protein and complex carbohydrates will help people suffering from ADHD maintain their energy levels and improve their concentration. People with ADHD should also make sure that they get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can contribute to impulsive behavior and poor concentration. Try relaxation and meditation techniques to decrease anxiety and irritability.
Yoga
Many adults do not learn that they suffer from ADHD until they seek help for other issues, like marital or depression. They have a difficult focus at work or at school and their relationships are often stressed. They may have difficulty sleeping. ADHD can also result in high levels of anxiety or an anxiety disorder.
Yoga exercises can help adults with ADHD reduce their symptoms. It is an ancient form of exercise that promotes a connection between the body and mind. It assists people in focusing on their breathing and provides a feeling of calmness. It lowers the levels of hormone neurotransmitters epinephrine and dopamine, which are linked to hyperactivity.
Research has shown that yoga can improve the ability of adults suffering from ADHD to control their emotions and focus on their work. In one study, 32 women were randomly assigned six weeks of Bikram Yoga training or a group of control waiting on the waiting list. They were required to perform a working memory test and the researchers employed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to measure brain activity. Women who participated in the yoga classes had better results than the control group.
If you're thinking of trying yoga to treat your ADHD be sure to consult your doctor before you begin. Make sure that the yoga instructor is certified and inquire if they have any experience working with people with ADHD. It is also advisable to talk with your doctor about whether a trial in clinical research might be appropriate for you. Clinical trials are research studies which explore new ways to stop, detect or treat ailments. They involve healthy participants as well as patients.
Stress management
Stress management is a collection of strategies that help you reset your body's alarm and lessens the impact of negative feelings such as anxiety, anger and resentment. These emotions can negatively impact your health, relationships, and your overall quality of life. Stress management can involve calming techniques to lower your heart rate and breathing, cognitive behavioral therapy that assists you in changing negative thinking patterns and also individual talk therapy.
The first step to manage your mood and symptoms is to identify and pinpoint the root of stress. It isn't always easy to determine the exact cause but a careful review of your daily routine and habits can assist you in finding the solution. If you're feeling stressed due to the demands of a job that include back-to-back meetings and you know that it causes stress every time, you can try to alter the situation by making plans ahead or managing your time. You can also accept the fact that you aren't in control and figure out ways to deal with situations that are impossible to alter.
Another aspect of managing stress is getting comfortable communicating with your supervisors, colleagues, and teachers about your ADHD. While you might be worried about the reactions of these individuals to your diagnosis, the majority are likely to be understanding and willing to make minor accommodations to improve your ability to complete your job or study. You may also seek emotional support from your family and friends. Family counseling can help you and your loved ones get to know each other better and support each, improve communication, and work together to overcome challenges. You may need to try various combinations before you discover the perfect one for you.