How Group Therapy for ADHD Can Help Manage Symptoms

How group therapy treats ADHD

Group therapy for treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) involves bringing together people with similar struggles and providing them with a supportive and understanding environment. In these groups, people can share their experiences and learn from each other’s coping strategies. Therapists lead discussions and offer guidance on how to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning. ADHD group therapy also focuses on social skills and provides opportunities for people to practice communication and problem-solving in a safe setting. Through shared experiences and mutual support, people in group therapy can learn to better manage their ADHD symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

Skills taught in group therapy for ADHD

Some of the skills taught in ADHD group therapy are as follows:

Communication skills

In group therapy, people are taught effective communication skills such as active listening, assertiveness, and conflict resolution. These skills help people with ADHD effectively express their thoughts and emotions in a respectful and constructive manner.

Time management

Group therapy participants learn techniques to manage their time more effectively, including setting priorities, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and using tools like planners and calendars. This enables people with ADHD to better organize their responsibilities and deadlines. 

Emotional regulation

People are taught strategies to recognize and manage their emotions, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and self-care activities. These skills help those with ADHD better control impulsive behavior and manage stress.

Social skills

Group therapy teaches people with ADHD how to navigate social situations and develop strong relationships. This includes skills such as reading social cues, initiating and maintaining conversations, and understanding nonverbal communication.

Organization skills

Participants in group therapy for ADHD learn methods to keep their physical and digital spaces organized, as well as strategies for managing paperwork, schedules, and belongings. This helps them to reduce clutter and stay on top of their responsibilities.

Problem-solving skills

In group therapy for ADHD, people are taught how to identify potential challenges, brainstorm solutions, and make action plans. These skills empower them to address difficulties in their lives and make positive changes.

Self-esteem building skills

Group therapy helps people with ADHD to recognize their strengths and build confidence in themselves. This includes activities such as positive self-talk, setting and achieving personal goals and celebrating accomplishments.

Mindfulness

Participants are taught techniques to improve their focus, attention, and awareness of the present moment in group therapy for ADHD. This can include mindfulness meditation, body scans, and sensory awareness exercises.

Executive functioning skills

In group therapy for ADHD, people are taught methods to improve their cognitive abilities, such as planning, organizing, prioritizing, and managing time. These skills are crucial for managing daily tasks and responsibilities.

Benefits of group therapy for ADHD

ADHD groups can offer many long-term benefits for people with the condition, including increased social support, improved coping skills, and a greater sense of belonging. In a group session, people can learn from each other’s experiences and gain valuable insights into their own struggles with ADHD. This can lead to improved self-esteem and a decreased sense of isolation. Additionally, group therapy provides ongoing accountability and encouragement, which can help people with ADHD stay motivated and focused on their treatment goals. 

How quickly does group therapy work for ADHD? 

Group therapy for ADHD can work fairly quickly for people who actively participate and engage with the process. Research shows that by being in a group setting, people can learn from each other’s experiences and strategies for managing symptoms. The support and validation people with ADHD receive from others can help them feel less isolated and bolster their confidence in coping with their symptoms. Over time, this can lead to noticeable improvements in their ability to focus, regulate their emotions, and manage impulsivity.

Coping skills for ADHD

In addition to therapy, there are many coping skills that can help people manage ADHD, including exercise, mindfulness, and time management techniques. Regular physical activity can help a person with ADHD manage their symptoms by releasing pent-up energy, improving focus, and boosting mood. Practicing mindfulness and meditation can also help a person with ADHD improve their attention, reduce impulsive behavior, and manage their emotions more effectively. Lastly, people with ADHD can benefit from learning and using time management techniques to stay organized, prioritize tasks, and prevent feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities.

Other types of treatments for ADHD

In addition to ADHD groups and coping skills, some other types of treatments for ADHD are as follows: 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT helps people with ADHD identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to their symptoms. It also teaches coping skills and strategies to manage impulsivity and improve focus.

Mindfulness-based therapy

Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help people with ADHD develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation. This therapy focuses on being present and accepting one’s thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Neurofeedback therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses real-time monitoring of brain activity to help people with ADHD learn to regulate their brain waves and improve focus and attention. It involves exercises and activities designed to retrain the brain and improve overall cognitive functioning.

Intensive outpatient program for ADHD 

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) might be used to treat ADHD when a person’s symptoms significantly impact their daily functioning and require more intensive therapy than traditional outpatient treatment. IOP provides structured, intensive therapy sessions for people with ADHD to address symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. This program typically includes a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy to help the person develop coping strategies, improve organizational skills, and manage their symptoms more effectively.

ADHD treatment with Charlie Health 

If a young person in your life is struggling with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health offers a virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) that provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for young people and families dealing with complex mental health conditions, including ADHD. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and support groups. With this kind of holistic treatment, managing ADHD is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.