Treatment of Adult ADHD
The majority of people with ADHD suffer from mental health issues like anxiety, substance abuse disorder, or depression. These conditions can affect how well ADHD medication is effective.
Psychological counseling helps patients manage their problems and improves their relationships. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one type of therapy that can help patients recognize and change their negative thoughts and behavior.
Medication
Medication is a powerful treatment for adults with ADHD. It can improve focus and decrease symptoms, but it is only part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes talk therapy and behavioral strategies. Talk therapy can help you learn more about how ADHD affects you and how you can deal with problems that arise from your symptoms, for example, difficulties working to meet 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 deal with other issues, such as depression or addiction to drugs.
Stimulant drugs, such as amphetamines as well as methylphenidate, are the most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD in adults. They are available in a variety of forms, from extended-release tablets to quick-release capsules. The medication increases the activity of certain neurotransmitters within your brain. These include norepinephrine and dopamine. These medications can trigger side effects such as weight loss and decreased appetite, as well as other health issues like insomnia and headaches.
Non-stimulant medicines are also available to treat adults with ADHD. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is an FDA-approved, non-stimulant medication that works by increasing the activity of another neurotransmitter, called norepinephrine. It isn't as addictive as stimulant medicines however it could take longer for it to take effect.
Some people notice dramatic improvements in their symptoms when taking ADHD medication. Others experience only a little relief, and suffer from numerous side effects. It takes time to find the appropriate dosage and medication for each individual. It is likely that you will need to visit your GP regularly for routine tests and checks to determine how well the medication is working.
Talk therapy
In addition to medications, talk therapy, also referred to as behavioral therapy -- is a treatment for adult 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 kind of therapy helps to comprehend the connection between your thoughts, feelings and actions. It can also teach you skills to manage your symptoms and improve your life. It is important to find a doctor who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
CBT is a well-established method that has helped many adults suffering from ADHD. It helps you modify your negative thinking patterns, such as procrastinating, or thinking that things are "all-or-nothing," and replace them with healthier ones. This type of therapy teaches you how to structure your environment so that it minimizes the effects of ADHD.
Behavioral coaching is another method that concentrates on practical solutions to everyday problems. This kind of therapy can help create strategies for organizing the work and home environments, prioritizing tasks and directing money. This can be done via the phone or in person. Many coaches have a background in business and may be able to provide advice on managing workplace issues.
Some people who suffer from ADHD may be aware that their symptoms are more evident at certain moments in their lives. This could be due major life changes such as the change in work or childbirth. Some people have reported that their symptoms become less severe as they age.
The good news is that ADHD is very treatable using the right combination of medications and therapy. The first step is to consult your family physician. He or she will assess your condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Exercise
If you're struggling with ADHD, you can consider exercising as treatment. Besides the obvious physical benefits, it can enhance your cognitive capabilities and mood. In addition, it can increase the production of essential proteins that help regulate signaling processes in the brain. It also aids in reducing the amygdala's hair-trigger responsiveness, making it less likely to lose temper in public or even lash out at other drivers when you're having an incident of road rage.
It's important to choose an exercise that is compatible with your preferences and interests. This will keep people with ADHD active and motivated. For example, if you enjoy team sports, consider joining a league or forming an online team. If you're not a fan of the gym environment, consider working out at home or outdoors. The noise of the gym can create sensory overload, and you could be dissatisfied and bored with your exercise.
Training for strength should be incorporated in the routines of people with ADHD in addition to cardiovascular exercise. This will provide a better well-balanced workout and improve coordination, which is often impaired in those with ADHD. Additionally strengthening exercises can help people with ADHD concentrate better.
Adults with ADHD must eat healthy food in addition to exercising regularly. Avoid sugary drinks or fast food and eat meals or snacks regularly. Adding protein and complex carbohydrates can help those with ADHD maintain their energy levels and increase their concentration. People suffering from ADHD must also ensure that they have enough sleep. Lack of sleep can cause the impulsive behavior and low concentration. It's also an excellent idea to explore meditation and relaxation techniques that can help to reduce irritability and anxiety.
Yoga
Many adults do not learn that they have ADHD until they get help for other issues, like marital or depression. They usually have a hard working or at school, and their relationships are often strained. They may have difficulty sleeping. ADHD can also cause high levels of anxiety or an anxiety disorder.
Adults suffering from ADHD might discover that yoga exercises can be beneficial in reducing the symptoms. It is an ancient form of exercise that combines self-awareness with physical exertion, and it creates a connection between the mind and body. It helps people focus on their breathing, and gives an atmosphere of calm. It lowers levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine as well as epinephrine, which are linked to hyperactivity.
Research has proven that yoga improves the capacity of adults with ADHD to control their emotions and focus on tasks. In one study, 32 people were randomly assigned to either six weeks of Bikram Yoga training or a group of control waiting on the list of waiters. Researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to determine brain activity. The women who participated in the yoga class improved more than those in the control group.
Before treating add begin, talk to your doctor about whether you should consider yoga to treat ADHD. Ask the yoga instructor if they are certified and have experience working with individuals with ADHD. It is also recommended to consult your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be suitable for you. Clinical trials are research studies that investigate new methods to prevent, detect or treat ailments. They usually involve both healthy volunteers and patients.
Stress management
Using a range of techniques that help you manage stress, it can help to reset your body's alarm system and reduce the impact of negative emotions like anxiety, anger and resentment on your health relationships, as well as your quality of life. In addition to calming methods that lower heart and breathing rates, stress management can include cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you break negative thinking patterns or talk therapy for individuals (either in-person or via online counseling platforms such as BetterHelp).
The first step in managing your mood and symptoms is to pinpoint and identify the causes of stress. While it may be difficult to pinpoint the root of the problem however, a thorough analysis of your daily routine and habits can help you discover the source. If you're overwhelmed by the demands of a job that include back-to-back meetings, and you know that it causes stress every time, try to alter the situation by making plans ahead or managing your time. You can also learn to accept the fact that you aren't in control and figure out ways to deal with situations that you can't alter.
Another aspect of stress management is learning to communicate with your co-workers, supervisors and teachers about your ADHD. While you might be worried about the reactions of these people to your diagnosis, the majority will likely to be understanding and willing to make minor adjustments to help you to do your job or studies. You can also seek emotional support from family and friends. Counseling for family or marital relationships can aid you and your loved ones comprehend and strengthen each to improve communication and work together to overcome the obstacles that hinder your relationship. It's important to note that these methods aren't one-size-fits all, and you might need some trial and error before finding the best combination for you.