The most effective treatment for adult ADHD typically involves a combination of complementary approaches that work together to reduce symptoms and provide guidance on how to live with the disorder. Comprehensive ADHD treatment can include medication, psychological counseling, and coaching. Regardless of the path that you take, treatment begins with a proper diagnosis.
If you suffer from ADHD symptoms, Klarity can help you find treatment. Book an online appointment with an experienced psychiatric healthcare provider for an evaluation and, if indicated, your ADHD medication will be sent to the pharmacy of your choice.
First Question: Do You Have ADHD?
Perhaps someone has asked you if you have ADHD, or maybe you’re wondering yourself. The only sure way to know is to consult a medical professional. This is because the disorder has many symptoms that can overlap with other conditions such as depression or anxiety. The type of treatment that will be most beneficial for you will depend on the type of ADHD you are diagnosed with.
Types of ADHD
The American Psychiatric Association has identified three primary types of ADHD. Each type has its own attendant symptoms and treatments based on those symptoms.
The first type of ADHD is the inattentive type, in which the patient has trouble paying attention, listening, remembering certain things, and keeping on task.
The second type is the hyperactive-impulsive type, which is typified by fidgeting, trouble staying quiet, talking too much, interrupting, and a general sense of always being on the go.
The combined type of ADHD, which shows symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive, is the most common.
When to Seek Treatment for ADHD
If you’ve been experiencing ADHD symptoms, even lesser known symptoms, it’s never too late to seek treatment. Once you’ve received a proper diagnosis, a medical professional will help you choose the proper course of treatment.
Types of ADHD Treatment
Treatment for ADHD ranges from prescription medication to therapy, sometimes combined with coaching. In many cases, medication alone is an effective treatment for ADHD.
Medications
There are multiple types of medications used to treat ADHD. The medication that may work best for you will be discussed as part of your individual treatment plan. It can also be helpful to read about ADHD medication comparisons, such as comparing the popular drug Adderall to Focalin, Modafinil, Strattera, Dexedrine, or Concerta.
Selecting the Right Medication
The right medication for treating your ADHD symptoms depends on a number of factors, especially the type of ADHD you have. Stimulant medications can help you pay attention longer by helping your brain send and receive signals, so you can think more clearly. If stimulants aren’t right for you, there are alternatives, such as antidepressants.
Finding the Right Dosage
Beyond just choosing the right medication, effective ADHD treatment relies on receiving the proper dosage. Upon receiving your initial prescription, you will go through a process that determines whether or not your dosage should be increased or decreased. Your doctor also ascertains whether the particular medication is in fact the right one. With time, you and your doctor will find the best dosage that works for you.
Therapy
While experts agree that ADHD medication is, in some circumstances, the most effective treatment for ADHD, there are different types of therapy that can help people manage their condition.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a type of talk therapy that can help with the challenges presented by ADHD. Originally a treatment for mood disorders, CBT is based on the recognition that cognitions can lead to emotional difficulties. The aim of CBT is to change irrational thought patterns that prevent individuals from staying on task or getting things done. Adults with ADHD often encounter frustration setbacks more frequently than others, whether it be on the job, in social interactions, or in everyday organization. This leads to self-criticism and pessimism. Learning to recognize these thoughts as distorted or untrue and changing harmful patterns is a huge part of what CBT helps achieve.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. DBT is dialectical because it incorporates two opposed approaches to therapy: the ideas of acceptance and change. Unlike other forms of cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT emphasizes recognizing harmful patterns of thinking and behavior and ultimately finding ways to adjust them.
ADHD Coaching
An ADHD coach is essentially a life coach who is specifically trained to help adults who are struggling with ADHD. A good coach can help you achieve your goals by assisting with planning and management skills, healthier self-esteem and relationships, self-motivation, and time management skills.
How to Find Help for ADHD
Whether you are actively seeking help for managing your ADHD, or you’re unsure if you even have the condition, the important thing to remember is how easy it is to find help, even from the comfort of your own home.
Telemedicine
In recent years, telemedicine has become a valuable way to receive treatment for ADHD diagnosis and medication, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, along with ADHD coaching.
Schedule an Online ADHD Evaluation with a Medical Professional
As you can see, the most effective treatment for ADHD in adults comes down to one thing: what you need for your specific condition. Schedule your online assessment with a licensed medical professional who can diagnose and treat your ADHD today.
