Treating ADHD In Post-Adolescent Ages
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Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in developed brains
Barriers to diagnosing ADHD and identifying symptoms
Importance of seeking treatment in any phase of life
Many adults with ADHD were not diagnosed as children due to lack of information or stigma, and may have been labeled as someone who couldn't control impulses, or a behavioral problem. Untreated ADHD can harm one’s relationships, career, and ability to handle daily responsibilities adequately. Not receiving support may lead to low self-esteem, mood swings, and other mental health conditions in adults, including substance use disorders or anxiety disorders. The American Psychiatric Association recognizes that adult ADHD can cause those with the condition to experience difficulty with focus, time management, sleep (including sleep disorders), impulsive behaviors, accomplishing goals, inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Difficulties managing ADHD symptoms and impulsive behavior in adulthood without guidance or support can also result in increased stress levels and lower self-esteem. Finally, some research reports an association between ADHD and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Having the appropriate information and treatment can represent life-saving care.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment: Talk therapy, medication, and other options
ADHD in children is typically treated with a combination of stimulant medication, parent training, and other forms of behaviour therapy to address problem behaviors. Adult treatment is also multifaceted although it takes a slightly different approach. Treatment for adult symptoms of ADHD is often approached from multiple angles and may include talk therapy, environmental changes, lifestyle adjustments, and/or ADHD medication. Another option to treat ADHD in adults is to connect with an ADHD coach, a professional who can assist adults with ADHD with time management, organizational skills, goal setting, social skills, and more problematic areas for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
You might choose to approach treatment by first recognizing how your symptoms affect your life, physical health, and mental health and then implementing solutions and seeking help to address those specific challenges.
Treatment with medication
Stimulant medication is sometimes prescribed for adult ADHD and may be effective for many people. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for executive function. Executive functions include working memory, impulse control, and the ability to persist in working on a task. Stimulant medication may enable better awareness and control over one’s behavior, as well as fewer symptoms of ADHD. Substance misuse is possible, so it’s important that ADHD medication is carefully monitored by a mental health professional.
Non-stimulant medications may also be prescribed for those experiencing symptoms of ADHD. For example, selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are sometimes recommended as a non-stimulant alternativefor ADHD symptoms. Some non-stimulant medications may be less likely to cause significant side effects, but not every adult with ADHD responds to them.
Stimulants are a first line treatment for children with ADHD, and often a child takes medication alongside therapy and behavioral training. Medication for adult ADHD can be of enormous assistance for many adults, but not everyone finds a medication that works for them. Others learn that some adult ADHD stimulants cause unfavorable side effects for them, such as decreased appetite and weight loss. Some may also choose to forgo medication in favor of therapy, behavioral treatments, and lifestyle modifications.
You should not start, stop, or change the dose of ADHD medications without the advice of your physician.
Therapy for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and other mental health conditions
Research suggests the most effective overall treatment for adult ADHD tends to be medication combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Without medication, CBT can still be an effective method of treatment. Some adults with ADHD find managing their thoughts and emotions difficult and may experience emotion dysregulation or a mood disorder.
Managing attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms
While not a replacement for medication and therapy, certain lifestyle adjustments and other behavioral treatments may help with adult ADHD symptom control to some degree. These include:
- Exercising regularly: Various studies indicate that exercise can increase a person's ability to maintain focus and attention.
- Eating nutritious foods: Eating nutritious foods may also improve ADHD symptoms, though you should always speak to a doctor or nutritionist first.
- Getting enough sleep: As one study puts it, “relationships of ADHD with sleep problems, psychiatric comorbidities, and medications are complex and multidirectional.” It’s not uncommon for those with ADHD to experience sleep problems, which can then exacerbate symptoms. Prioritizing sleep hygiene may help.
- Cultivating a mindfulness practice: A regular mindfulness practice is commonly recommended for various mental disorders, and ADHD is no exception. Mindfulness may help with focus and emotional control. Though preliminary support has been established, more research is recommended to understand this option.
Healthy lifestyle practices offer a solid foundation of protective factors for both mental and physical health. Stress management and regular exercise regulate blood pressure and reduce symptoms of potential comorbid conditions like depression or anxiety disorders, and other symptoms like difficulty sleeping that can impact day-to-day life for someone with ADHD.
Seeking support for symptoms
Benefits of online therapy
For those who are interested in meeting with a therapist to address potential ADHD symptoms and treatments, they can connect with one online or in person. If you’d prefer to attend traditional, in-office sessions, you can search for a provider in your local area. If you’d prefer to meet with someone virtually from the comfort of your home, you might consider online therapy.
Takeaway
What is the dark side of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder?
- Mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
- Challenges with social interactions and communication
- Impulsive behaviors and mood swings
- Higher likelihood of risky behaviors, such as using substances
- Difficulty managing time, prioritizing tasks, or meeting deadlines
- Increased risk for conditions like substance abuse
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adults can often be effectively managed with a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications, and self-help strategies. Individual and family therapy can help both children and adults address the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as any co-occurring challenges like anxiety, problematic family dynamics, or substance abuse.
What happens if attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder goes untreated later in life?
If attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is left untreated, it can lead to a range of negative outcomes. These include mental health challenges, low self-esteem, relationship strain, self-medication through use of illegal drugs,problems in school or work, and a heightened risk of behavioral issues.
Instead, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications (like stimulants), support groups, and connecting with friends and family members can help people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder manage their symptoms and work more productively.
Is caffeine a treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms?
What is the best ADHD treatment for diagnosed adults?
- Stimulant medications
- Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder coaching
- Cognitive training
- Neurofeedback
In addition to working with trained professionals, adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can benefit from organizational tools, exercise, and other self-help strategies.
What are the three C's of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder?
- Catch: When you experience negative emotions, identify that thought that drove it
- Check: Ask yourself if that thought is useful and accurate
- Change: Reframe the thought into something more helpful or accurate
What does severe attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder look like in adults?
- Impulsivity
- Lack of organization and challenges in prioritizing tasks
- Difficulty planning and following through on tasks
- Restlessness
- Challenges with time management
- Difficulty multitasking
- Low ability to tolerate frustration
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Low stress resilience
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms can range from mild to severe. If your symptoms are difficult to manage or cause distress, it’s a good idea to speak with a professional. Both talk therapy and medications can be part of treatment to effectively manage attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms.
What is the 5 4 3 2 1 method for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder?
The 5-4-3-2-1 method for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a mindfulness method that can be helpful when you’re experiencing overwhelming thoughts or difficulty concentrating. To practice this technique, focus on:
- Five things you can see
- Four things you can touch
- Three things you can hear
- Two things you can smell
- One thing you can taste
What is ring of fire attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder?
In many cases, however, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms improve with age. This is particularly true when the person seeks treatment and utilizes management strategies.
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