Treatment of Adult ADHD
The majority of people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from comorbid mental health issues like anxiety, depression or substance use disorder. These conditions can impact the effectiveness of ADHD medication.
Psychological counseling can assist patients in learning how to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that can be used to assist patients in identifying and changing their negative thoughts and behaviors.
Medication
The use of medication can be a potent treatment for adults with ADHD. It can help improve focus and reduce symptoms but is only part of a comprehensive treatment plan which also includes talk therapy and behavioral strategies. Talk therapy can teach you more about ADHD and how you can deal with the problems that could arise as a result of your symptoms. For example you might learn to manage difficulties at work due to your condition or ways to improve your relationships. It can help you identify negative thinking patterns and alter them. Talk therapy can also teach you how to better manage your relationships and also address other issues such as addiction or depression.
Stimulant medications, including amphetamines and methylphenidate are the most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD in adults. These medications are available in different forms, including extended-release tablets and quick-release capsules. The medication is effective by increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in your brain. These include dopamine and norepinephrine. Stimulant medications may cause adverse effects, like decreased appetite and weight loss, or other health issues, such as headaches, sleep issues and high blood pressure.
Adults with ADHD can also be treated using non-stimulant drugs. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an FDA-approved, non-stimulant medication that works by increasing the activity of another neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. It is not as addictive as stimulant drugs however, it can take longer for it to be effective.
Some people notice dramatic improvements in their symptoms when they take ADHD medication. However, others experience only a limited relief and suffer from a variety of adverse consequences. It takes time to find out which dosage and medication is right for each person. You should visit your GP regularly for routine tests and checkups to monitor the effectiveness of the medication.
Talk therapy
Talk therapy, also known as behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. It can assist you in managing your symptoms. The therapy is typically short term and you will work with an expert in mental health. This kind of therapy helps to understand the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and actions. It can also help you develop skills to manage your symptoms and improve your life. It is essential to find a doctor who is experienced in treating adults with ADHD.
CBT is a tried and true method that helps many adults with ADHD. It teaches you to replace negative thinking patterns such as procrastination, or thinking that things are all-or-nothing with healthier ones. This type of therapy teaches you to structure your environment in ways that reduce problems caused by your ADHD.
Behavioral coaching is another approach that focuses on practical solutions to everyday challenges. This kind of therapy can help you devise strategies for organizing your work and home environment prioritizing your tasks, and managing money. It can be conducted in person or over the phone. Many coaches have a background in business and can offer advice on managing issues at work.
Certain people suffering from ADHD are aware that their symptoms are more evident at certain times in their lives. This could be due to major life changes, such as having a baby or starting a new job. Other people have reported that their symptoms become less severe as they grow older.
The good news is that ADHD can be treated with the proper combination and therapy of medicine. The first step is to visit your family doctor. The doctor will examine your health condition and suggest a treatment plan.
Exercise
Exercise can be a great treatment for ADHD. Exercise can improve your mood and cognitive abilities, in addition to the obvious physical benefits. It can also increase the production essential proteins that regulate signaling processes in the brain. It also reduces the hair-trigger responsiveness of the amygdala, which means you're less likely to lose your temper in public, or lash out at another driver during a road rage incident.
It is important to select a workout that suits your tastes and preferences. This will keep you interested and active, which can be difficult for people with ADHD. Consider joining a team or a league if you enjoy team sports. If you aren't a fan of the gym environment, consider exercising at home or in nature. The clamor of the gym could trigger sensory overload, and you could become frustrated and disinterested in your workout.
Strength training should be incorporated in the workout routines of people with ADHD as well as cardiovascular exercise. This will give a more balanced workout and can improve coordination, which is typically affected in people suffering from ADHD. In addition the exercises that strengthen your body can aid people suffering from ADHD concentrate better.
Adults suffering from ADHD should eat healthy foods in addition to exercising regularly. Avoid sugary drinks and fast food, as well as eating meals or snacks frequently. Adding protein and complex carbohydrates will help people with ADHD maintain their energy levels and increase their concentration. People who suffer from ADHD must also ensure they get enough rest. Lack of sleep can result in impulsive behaviors and a lack of concentration. Try relaxation and meditation techniques to lessen anxiety and anger.
Yoga
Many adults do not learn that they suffer from ADHD until they seek help for other issues, such as marital or depression. They have a difficult working or at school, and their relationships are often stressed. They may experience difficulty sleeping well. Anxiety disorders or high levels of ADHD could be the result.
Adults with ADHD might find yoga exercises helpful in reducing their symptoms. It is a traditional exercise that combines self-awareness and physical activity, and creates a connection between the mind and body. It helps people focus on their breathing, and creates a sense of calmness. It lowers levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine as well as epinephrine that are associated with hyperactivity.
Studies have shown that yoga improves the capacity of adults suffering from ADHD to manage their emotions and focus on their tasks. In one study, 32 women were randomly assigned six weeks of Bikram Yoga or a control group waiting on the wait list. They were asked to complete a working memory task and researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to gauge brain activity. Women who took part in the yoga classes were more improved than the control group.
Before you start, talk to your doctor about whether you should consider yoga to treat ADHD. Ask the yoga instructor if they are certified and if they have experience working with those with ADHD. Talk to More methods to determine if a clinical study is right for you. Clinical trials are research studies that look at new methods to prevent, detect, or treat conditions and diseases. They involve healthy participants as well as patients.
Stress management
Stress management is a set of methods that can help you reset your body's alarm and reduces the negative effects of feelings like anxiety, anger and resentment. These emotions can adversely impact your health, relationships and quality of your life. In addition to calming methods that reduce breathing and heart rates, stress management may include cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thinking or talk therapy for individuals (either in-person or via online counseling platforms like BetterHelp).
Identifying and tracking the sources of your stress is the first step to managing your emotional and physical symptoms. It can be difficult to determine the exact cause however a closer look at your daily routine and habits can help you find the answer. For instance, if your stress is about a hectic work schedule and you are aware that it causes stress, try changing the circumstances by making plans ahead or finding an effective way to manage your time. You can also learn to accept the things you cannot control and figure out ways to cope with situations that you can't change.
Communication with colleagues and teachers about ADHD is another aspect of stress management. While you may be concerned about the reaction of these people to your diagnosis, the majority are likely to be accepting and willing to make small accommodations to improve your ability to complete your job or study. Additionally, you can get emotional support from family and friends. Family or marital counseling can help you and your loved ones to understand and strengthen each to improve communication and work together to overcome any obstacles in your relationship. It is possible to test various combinations before you can find the best one for you.