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Online therapy in Oklahoma for ADHD in teens and adults

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of people across the lifespan. It’s characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can significantly impact daily life (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

If you’re an adult or college student struggling with ADHD, you may experience challenges with:

Focus and Attention: Difficulty sustaining attention, easily distracted, forgetfulness, organizational problems, difficulty completing tasks, and a tendency to lose things.
Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, difficulty waiting your turn, making hasty decisions, and engaging in risky behaviors.
Hyperactivity: Restlessness, fidgeting, excessive talking, difficulty staying still, and an internal feeling of restlessness.

These challenges can affect your academic performance, work productivity, relationships, and overall well-being.

The Impact of ADHD on Adults

ADHD doesn’t disappear in adulthood. While some individuals may experience a decrease in hyperactivity as they age, challenges with inattention, impulsivity, and emotional regulation often persist.

Adults with ADHD may struggle with:

Career difficulties: Difficulty meeting deadlines, staying organized, managing time effectively, and following through on tasks.
Relationship problems: Impulsivity, difficulty listening, and emotional outbursts can strain relationships with partners, family, and friends.
Emotional dysregulation: Increased frustration, irritability, mood swings, and low self-esteem.
Financial challenges: Difficulty managing finances, impulsive spending, and disorganization.
Health concerns: Increased risk of accidents, substance abuse, and other health problems.

The Unique Challenges of ADHD in College

College presents unique challenges for students with ADHD. The demands of academic coursework, time management, and social life can feel overwhelming.

Common struggles for college students with ADHD include:

Procrastination and disorganization: Difficulty starting and completing assignments, keeping track of deadlines, and managing time effectively.
Poor concentration in lectures and while studying: Easily distracted by internal thoughts or external stimuli, leading to inefficient learning and academic difficulties.
Impulsive behaviors: Interrupting in class, difficulty following social cues, and engaging in risky behaviors.
Emotional dysregulation: Increased frustration, anxiety, and low self-esteem due to academic and social challenges.

Effective Strategies for Managing ADHD

While there’s no cure for ADHD, various strategies and interventions can help you manage your symptoms and live a successful and fulfilling life.

1. Therapy for ADHD

Therapy can provide invaluable support and guidance for individuals with ADHD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a particularly effective approach for addressing ADHD-related challenges (Knouse & Safren, 2010).

CBT techniques for ADHD include:

Cognitive restructuring: Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with more realistic and helpful ones. This can improve self-esteem and reduce feelings of frustration and inadequacy.
Behavioral activation: Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and develop routines to improve organization and time management.
Problem-solving skills training: Learn effective strategies for identifying and solving problems, reducing impulsivity and improving decision-making.
Emotional regulation: Develop techniques for managing frustration, anxiety, and other emotions associated with ADHD. This can involve mindfulness practices, relaxation techniques, and distress tolerance skills.

2. Medication Management

It’s important to consult with a qualified medical professional, such as a psychiatrist or your primary care physician, to discuss the role of medication in managing ADHD symptoms (National Institute of Mental Health, 2022). They can assess your needs, discuss potential benefits and side effects of different medications, and develop a personalized medication plan if necessary.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus (Gapin, Labban, & Etnier, 2011).
Sleep: Prioritize getting enough sleep to improve attention and emotional regulation (Cortese et al., 2009).
Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet to support brain function and overall well-being (Pelsser et al., 2011).
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and improve focus (Zylowska et al., 2008).

4. Assistive Technology and Organizational Tools

Calendars and planners: Use digital or paper-based tools to keep track of deadlines, appointments, and tasks.
Task management apps: Utilize apps to break down tasks, set reminders, and stay organized.
Noise-canceling headphones: Minimize distractions and improve focus in noisy environments.

5. Support and Advocacy

Therapy: Individual or group therapy can provide support, coping strategies, and a safe space to discuss challenges.
Support groups: Connect with others who understand the experience of living with ADHD.
Educational resources: Learn more about ADHD and effective management strategies (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), n.d.).
Self-advocacy: Develop skills to advocate for your needs in academic and professional settings. This may involve disclosing your ADHD diagnosis to professors or employers and requesting accommodations.

Finding the Right Path for You

Managing ADHD is a journey, not a destination. It’s essential to find the combination of strategies and support that works best for you.

If you’re struggling with ADHD, online therapy can provide personalized support as you navigate the challenges and discover your path to success.

Why Online Therapy?

Online therapy offers several benefits:

Convenience: Access therapy from the comfort of your own home.
Flexibility: Schedule sessions that fit your busy lifestyle.
Accessibility: Reach a therapist regardless of your location in Oklahoma.
Privacy: Enjoy a greater sense of privacy and confidentiality.

Ready to Connect? If you’re curious about online therapy and how it might benefit you, I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. We can discuss your needs, explore whether we’re a good fit, and answer any questions you may have.

Derek Minor, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor

Licensed to provide therapy in Oklahoma

Request Appointment

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical or mental health advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). (n.d.). Retrieved from [CHADD website link]

Cortese, S., Faraone, S. V., Konofal, E., & Lecendreux, M. (2009). Sleep and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A neurobiological perspective. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 13(4), 295-308.

Gapin, J. I., Labban, J. D., & Etnier, J. L. (2011). The effects of exercise on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Attention Disorders, 15(5), 397-408.

Knouse, L. E., & Safren, S. A. (2010). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for adult ADHD. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 66(11), 1188-1203.

National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from [NIMH website link]

Pelsser, L. M., Frankena, K., Toorman, J., Savelkoul, H. F., Dubois, A. E., & van Wijngaarden, E. (2011). Effects of a restricted elimination diet on the behaviour of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (INCA study): A randomised controlled trial. The Lancet, 377(9764), 494-503.

Zylowska, L., Ackerman, D. L., Yang, M. H., Futrell, J. L., Horton, N. L., Hale, T. S., … & Smalley, S. L. (2008). Mindfulness meditation training in adults and adolescents with ADHD: A feasibility study. Journal of Attention Disorders, 11(6), 737-746.