What is the best treatment for ADHD in adults?
People with ADHD will have experienced this first hand: unfortunately, there is no single greatest treatment option ADHD in adulthood. To combat the symptoms of ADHD, the best strategy is to take advantage of multiple treatment options. These treatment options can include counseling, improved exercise and nutrition, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), participating in a support group, and medication.
Discovering what combination of treatments will work the best for you takes careful consideration and planning. What works for one person may not work for another, so do not get discouraged if a particular treatment proves unhelpful to your particular situation. Consult with a medical professional before deciding that a particular method is not working for you.
Read on to learn more about therapy and other resources for treating ADHD.
Therapy For Adult ADHD
While medication treatment is often considered as the first combatant against ADHD, medication alone is often not enough to completely mitigate side effects in daily life. Many adults with ADHD turn to therapy as a supplement to their medication, and some may choose to forgo medication altogether. Regardless of your decision to take medication, individuals with ADHD will find therapy to be a helpful asset in their journey to improved mental health.
Behavior therapies, also known as behavior modification, are grounded on the principles of classical human conditioning. Behavior therapy believes that all human behavior is learned, therefore allowing for the correction of problem behavior that negatively impacts daily life.
When behavior therapy is applied to treatment for ADHD, individuals can see improvements in their impulse control, time management, mood and negative thoughts.
Cognitive Behavioral Modification Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychological treatment that has proven effective for the improvement of a number of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, drug use and ADHD. CBT is a therapy effort to alter your thinking patterns. The core principle behind the treatment is that psychological issues are, in part, based on learned behavior and therefore can be changed. Participants in CBT treatment will be taught multiple strategies to improve or change their behavioral patterns, which might include:
- Recognizing and reevaluating the difference between reality and one’s distortion of that reality
- Developing greater problem-solving ability, and using those new skills to handle and overcome difficult situations
- Gaining confidence and learning to remain calm in the face of adversity
The development of these coping skills will be different for every patient that chooses to participate in CBT. CBT therapists will work with their patients to determine what strategy will be most effective in that specific case. Learn more about how cognitive behavioral therapy might be used in your treatment with the Holiner Group.
Alternative ADHD Treatment For Adults
Some people wish to limit their intake of medication, and if that’s the case for you, there are other options. There are a number of alternative ADHD and ADD treatments available for adults that do not wish to use medication. These solutions can include an improvement in nutrition and exercise, as well as adding supplements that improve brain function.
Nutrition and Supplements
While nutrition does not cause ADHD or ADD, diet can play a big role in your ability to mitigate the symptoms of the behavioral disorder. Improving your nutrition has a number of benefits, including aiding your ability to cope with ADHD. Some research shows that a protein-rich diet can improve coping with ADHD. Vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, protein and complex carbs help the brain carry out its proper functions, ultimately aiding in the improvement of ADHD symptoms.
Exercise for ADHD Management
Besides the obvious benefits of exercise including toned muscles and fat loss, studies show that working out can provide you a number of benefits to the brain:
- Improve ability to cope with stress
- Increase levels of protein in the brain involved in learning and memory
- Ease anxiety
- Increase impulse control and enhance memory
During a workout, the brain releases dopamine, a chemical that provides clarity and improved attention. (Typically, people with ADHD have less dopamine in their brain than people who don’t.) Increasing levels of dopamine through exercise can improve ADHD management for adults.
Meditation and Yoga
Participation in “mindful exercises” such as meditation and yoga can result in fewer ADHD symptoms, according to some studies. Yoga and meditation have proven to both increase energy levels and reduce anxiety.
Tips For Adults Managing ADHD
What helps adults with ADHD?
Adults with ADHD can best manage their symptoms by trying a number of treatment options. Treatment options can include counseling, improved exercise and nutrition, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), participating in a support group, and medication.
Can you live with ADHD without medication?
It is possible depending on the severity of your symptoms, but most adults find that a combination of medication and alternative treatments provide the best way of life. Consult with a professional to find out what will work best for your specific situation.
What is the most effective ADHD medication for adults?
The most effective ADHD medications for adults are long-acting stimulants. However, you need to consult with a doctor to learn about your options and learn what will be most effective for your symptoms and your body.
Looking for adult ADHD treatment in Dallas Texas?
For treatment in the Dallas and Mckinney, Texas area, Dr. Joel Holiner and the dedicated psychiatrists at The Holiner Psychiatric Group can help both children and adults improve their life with ADHD. Dr. Holiner is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. His office is a full-service practice that provides high-quality inpatient and outpatient services for people in every walk of life. Learn more about ADHD treatment services offered at The Holiner Group.