Many children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, continue to experience symptoms well into adulthood, and sometimes the disorder never seems to diminish in severity. Treatment can help reduce the negative symptoms of this disorder. ADHD does not develop in adults. If an adult struggles with this disorder, he's always struggled with it. Adults must have had symptoms before the age of 7 to receive this diagnosis.
Types
Adults who suffer from ADHD can receive treatment in the form of medication or counseling. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that stimulants are the most common form of medication prescribed to treat ADHD; however, Strattera--a non-stimulant--antidepressants and blood pressure medications might be recommended if stimulants aren't effective or produce negative side effects. Adults can receive individual, marital or family counseling to learn to cope with this disorder, improve relationships and reduce the symptoms of ADHD. Adults with this disorder can also join support groups comprised of other adults who struggle with the same issues.
Alternative Treatments
MayoClinic.com reports that alternative treatments exist, but more research is needed to understand if the alternative treatments are effective. Alternative treatments include yoga, special diets, supplements and neurofeedback training. Adults who experience negative side effects from medication or want to stop taking medication could try to supplement their treatment with alternative medicine. Before stopping any psychotropic medication, however, patients should consult their doctors and therapists.
Considerations
Professional treatment is often needed in order to cope with mental health disorders such as ADHD, but adults can help themselves by making changes in their lives, reports Helpguide.org. Adults can increase their ability to concentrate and decrease impulsiveness if they exercise regularly, get seven to eight hours of sleep and eat healthfully most of the time.
Misconceptions
Adults with ADHD should not expect miracles from medication. It doesn't cure the disorder. An adult with ADHD will continue to struggle with relationship and communication problems, disorganization and self-control even with the help of medication. In order to reduce these negative symptoms, other forms of treatment must be utilized. Medication can help someone with ADHD focus and lead a more normal life, but it should not be the only treatment option considered.
Warning
MayoClinic.com reports a link between ADHD and other mental health disorders and substance abuse. If someone has an additional mental health disorder, such as anxiety or depression, both ADHD and the additional disorder need to be treated, and the treatment plan, medication and therapy will need to change to accommodate the additional disorder. If someone abuses alcohol or drugs, this problem will also need to be addressed in order to get help for ADHD.
