Adult ADHD Management: How CBT Can Improve Your Daily Life
Oct 21, 2024
October is ADHD Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the challenges and triumphs of those living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Though ADHD is often associated with children, millions of adults navigate daily life with this condition.
Here at New England Institute for Neurology and Headache, our team offers cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a structured, evidence-based approach that can significantly improve the lives of adults with ADHD.
ADHD in adults can have different symptoms when comparing to children. Though hyperactivity often decreases with age, you can have symptoms like inattention, disorganization, and impulsivity that may persist or even worsen. You might also struggle with managing time, staying organized, or maintaining focus, which can impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being.
Managing these symptoms isn't just about "trying harder." It's about understanding how ADHD affects your life and developing strategies to cope with its challenges. That’s why we encourage cognitive behavioral therapy for adults with ADHD.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of talk therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. For adults with ADHD, CBT can be especially beneficial because it targets the specific cognitive challenges that come with the disorder.
CBT helps you recognize the thoughts and beliefs that contribute to your difficulties with ADHD. For example, if you’re an adult with ADHD, you might think, I'm always going to be late because I can't manage my time, leading to frustration and anxiety. CBT can help you change this belief, encouraging more productive thoughts like, I can improve my time management with the right strategies and practice.
Here’s how CBT can help if you struggle with ADHD:
One of the main challenges for adults with ADHD is time management. CBT teaches you techniques on how to better estimate time, break tasks into manageable steps, and develop routines that can make daily life more predictable and less overwhelming.
CBT can also help with organization. Whether it's managing a cluttered workspace or creating a system for keeping track of appointments and tasks, CBT offers practical strategies that can make a big difference.
Procrastination is a common issue for adults with ADHD. CBT helps you understand the reasons behind your procrastination and develops strategies to overcome it, such as breaking tasks into smaller steps or using rewards to motivate action.
Many adults with ADHD struggle with low self-esteem due to years of criticism and self-doubt. If that’s you, CBT can help rebuild your self-esteem by changing negative thought patterns and encouraging positive self-talk.
Cognitive behavioral therapy offers practical, evidence-based tools that can help if you’re an adult struggling with ADHD. It can help you lead a more organized, productive, and fulfilling life.
If you or someone you know has signs of ADHD, consider exploring CBT as part of your management plan. With our support, you can manage ADHD and thrive.
Book an evaluation with our team in Stamford or Westport, Connecticut. Call our friendly office staff, or click here to schedule an appointment online today.