Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder of ADHD is a mental health condition that manifests as hyperactivity, an inability or struggle to pay attention, and impulsivity. ADHD can be diagnosed in childhood or later on as an adult. Doctors diagnose a condition when symptoms are chronic and long-lasting, interfering with a person’s ability to carry out daily functions.
There are several different treatment methods for ADHD. At Alter Behavioral Health Group we primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatment and mindfulness-based therapy. These treatment modalities are often used in conjunction with medication management, depending on each client’s situation.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for ADHD
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be used to treat a variety of different conditions, including ADHD. CBT works on the premise that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. By changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, an individual can change their overall well-being.
Therapists use CBT, a research-backed therapy form, to collaborate with clients and tailor treatment to each client’s needs. This therapy modality provides rapid ADHD relief while also building a more long-term future. In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, clients will learn to cope with stress, inattention, and hyperactivity to improve their everyday functions and quality of life.
The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy process uses three main phases: cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and exposure therapy. Therapists may use all three or only one or two, depending on the needs of the client.
Cognitive restructuring helps clients understand their thoughts and emotions, learning to avoid negative or harmful thoughts. Following this, the goal is to replace negativity with calmer, more realistic thoughts. This reframes the client’s mindset to promote a healthier lifestyle and way of thinking.
Behavioral activation increases engagement in positive and rewarding activities to counteract racing thoughts that can come along with ADHD. This is done by setting goals and having consistent exposure to activities that excite and stimulate the brain. The behavioral activation method gives clients a sense of purpose, encouraging ADHD clients to want to stay focused towards their goals.
Exposure therapy puts clients in close quarters with their ADHD triggers, helping them learn to remain unaffected by them. Therapists and mental health professionals supervise this process in a safe, controlled environment.
ADHD and Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Therapy is a holistic approach to personal development and well-being. During this type of ADHD treatment, coaches will help clients live more self-aware and mindful of the world around them. This can lead to better focus for those experiencing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. By regulating emotions and thoughts, those experiencing inattention and/or hyperactivity can alter their way of thinking to be more focused. The three main methodologies used in Mindfulness-Based Therapy are mindful breathing, body scan meditation, and loving-kindness meditation.
Breathwork or mindful breathing is a foundation mindfulness technique that focuses attention on breathing and how it enters and leaves the body. By focusing on breathing, client’s with ADHD can center themselves in the present, giving them a sense of calm and relaxation.
Body scan meditation works to bring attention to different parts of the body – head to toe. This encourages clients to be more in tune with their body and read the signals it is giving. With ADHD it can be easy for clients to feel guilt or shame when they get off-track and lose attention for important topics. The second part of body scan meditation is learning how to respond to signals with self-compassion.
Loving-kindness meditation involves cultivating feelings of kindness and compassion towards oneself and others. Research has shown that this method increases feelings of connection, empathy, and well-being. Through loving-kindness meditation those experiencing ADHD can enhance their relationship with themselves and others.
Medication Management
Doctors can also treat ADHD with prescribed medication. Doctors use two different types of medications to manage ADHD symptoms: stimulants and nonstimulants. Stimulants are most common due to their fast acting nature. Non-stimulants do not work as quickly but they can be longer lasting.
Medication management can increase attention span, reduce hyperactivity, control impulses, and help clients manage their ADHD symptoms. Common medications used to manage ADHD are:
- Focalin®
- Methylin® Chewable
- Methylin® Oral Solution
- Ritalin®
- Adderall®
- Desoxyn®
However, doctors use other medications as well, and what works for one person may not work for another. At Alter Behavioral Health, we prioritize finding the best treatment plan for each client. Clinicians can use medication management in conjunction with holistic methods to provide a comprehensive ADHD care plan that yields long-lasting results.
Don’t Let ADHD Go Untreated
ADHD can be debilitating and we believe that everyone deserves treatment for their mental health conditions. Alter Behavioral Health is known for its compassionate, high-quality mental health treatment. In fact, we offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness-based therapy, as well as medication management. Clients can access this treatment through our crisis stabilization and intervention, residential treatment, partial hospitalization programs, and intensive outpatient treatment. Whether you or someone you know is in need of ADHD treatment, Alter is ready to welcome all with open arms.
About Alter
Alter is a behavioral healthcare provider that specializes in evidence-based clinical treatment approaches. We provide a wide range of programs for adults and families experiencing mental health conditions including schizophrenia, depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, substance abuse, and more. This is done through client-centered care for a full-continuum of treatment. We serve the entire U.S. population from our revolutionary locations throughout sunny Southern California. Whether an individual needs 24/7 care or wants an outpatient program – we are there to guide every step of the journey. For more information, give us a call at (877) 613-9776 or visit our website at alterbehavioralhealth.com.
