Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) presents unique challenges that can impact day-to-day life. Therapy has proven to be a helpful tool for managing ADHD symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Whether you’re an adult living with ADHD, a parent seeking guidance for your child, or someone new to the topic, here’s information on the basics of ADHD and therapy options that can help:
What Is Therapy for ADHD?
Therapy is an important part of ADHD treatment, especially for teens. In therapy, you meet with a therapist who helps you manage the challenges ADHD can bring.
What do you learn in therapy?
- How to listen and pay attention better
- How to stay organized and focused
- How to manage emotions and stress
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects behavioral control, focus, and executive functioning skills. It may emerge in childhood and usually continues into adulthood. While symptoms and their intensity can vary greatly, ADHD is generally characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily life.
Why Is Therapy Important for ADHD?
Therapy helps teens improve in school, at home, and daily life. It teaches skills that help with:
| What Therapy Helps With | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Paying attention better | Helps with school and tasks |
| Getting along with others | Improves relationships |
| Managing emotions | Reduces frustration and stress |
| Feeling more confident | Helps with self-esteem |
Some people with ADHD may feel discouraged, anxious, or frustrated. Therapy provides tools to handle these emotions and feel more positive.
How Does ADHD Therapy Work?
Therapy is all about learning by doing. A therapist guides you through different activities and techniques to build skills.
Some things a therapist might teach include:
- Study skills to help with homework
- Emotion skills to handle frustration
- Attention skills like mindful breathing
- Social skills to get along with others
Therapists also help with problem-solving, discussing school and home challenges and how to fix them.
Common Symptoms
Adults, teens, and children with ADHD may experience symptoms such as difficulty staying focused on tasks, forgetfulness, an inability to follow through with projects, and trouble with organization. These challenges often extend beyond academics into everyday life, impacting relationships and personal development. ADHD struggles appear differently at different life stages, but for teens and children, common signs may include:
- Being easily distracted
- Frequently making careless mistakes
- Losing items like toys or homework
- Forgetfulness in daily activities
- Difficulty following instructions
- Trouble completing homework
What Happens in ADHD Therapy?
At first, the therapist will ask questions to understand how ADHD affects you. Together, you will set goals to work on.
Here’s what you might do in therapy sessions:
| Activity | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Talking | Helps express emotions and feel understood |
| Doing activities | Teaches organization, study skills, and social skills |
| Practicing new skills | Helps train attention and calm the mind |
| Solving problems | Finds solutions for ADHD challenges at home and school |
A strong, positive relationship with your therapist makes it easier to learn and improve.
Basics of Therapy can provide tools and strategies
Therapy can provide tools and strategies to help individuals manage ADHD symptoms effectively. Here’s a closer look at some commonly used therapeutic approaches:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT targets thought patterns that may lead to feelings of frustration or overwhelm. By identifying these patterns, individuals can build emotional regulation and problem-solving skills to manage difficulties more effectively.
- Social Skills Training: Social skills training helps improve communication skills and teaches individuals how to interact positively in social and professional situations. Incorporating positive reinforcement, uniform discipline, and a structured management plan can effectively alter a child’s behaviors.
- Parent Training Programs: Parent-focused therapy, geared specifically toward children and teens, helps parents better understand ADHD and develop tools to support their child’s learning and growth.
What Happens in ADHD Therapy?
At first, the therapist will ask questions to understand how ADHD affects you. Together, you will set goals to work on.
Here’s what you might do in therapy sessions:
| Activity | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Talking | Helps express emotions and feel understood |
| Doing activities | Teaches organization, study skills, and social skills |
| Practicing new skills | Helps train attention and calm the mind |
| Solving problems | Finds solutions for ADHD challenges at home and school |
A strong, positive relationship with your therapist makes it easier to learn and improve.