Effective Coping Strategies for Adult ADHD

Effective Coping Strategies for Adult ADHD

Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often associated with children and teenagers. But many adults must live with adverse consequences of the mental health disorder in their daily lives.

As in children, impulsive behavior, hyperactivity, and difficulty paying attention characterize ADHD in adults. These characteristic manifestations can result in shoddy work or school performance, unstable personal and professional relationships, and low self-confidence and self-esteem. These issues are further complicated because many cases of adult ADHD aren’t diagnosed until adulthood. However, the symptoms started in early childhood.

Fortunately, there are several effective coping strategies that people diagnosed with adult ADHD can adopt to improve their quality of life. These include a combination of medications and education, including psychotherapy.

Medications Prescribed by Doctors

Be sure to discuss the risks and rewards of medications with your doctor. You will also likely use trial and error before the right combination of drugs can be determined in your case. Therefore, it would be best if you worked closely with your doctor on this matter, especially discussing your symptoms and side effects experienced.

  • Stimulants, such as amphetamine and methylphenidate, can boost and balance the brain’s amounts of neurotransmitters.
  • Non-stimulant atomoxetine can also aid in reducing the person’s symptoms/
  • Antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin, can lift a person’s spirits. These are usually considered second-line treatments (i.e., when stimulants are ineffective).

Again, the proper medications in the right doses will vary between adults with ADHD. Your doctor will adjust your medicines as needed, so honest about your current medications’ response is necessary.

Education Is a Must, Too

You must learn all you can about your mental health issues to understand and cope with them. Then, your doctor will recommend psychological counseling, known as psychotherapy, a valuable treatment method to improve your coping skills.

You can learn ways to decrease your impulsive behavior, cope with your perceived failure in life, and develop effective temper control strategies, among others. In addition, you will benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and marriage counseling. You’re well-advised then to attend your psychotherapy sessions for this reason.
Your case of adult ADHD may be a lifelong issue, but you don’t have to be ruled by it. By working with your doctor, family, and friends and taking the proper measures to improve yourself, you can succeed in life!