When To Consider Medication for ADHD Treatment

The standard treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or “ADHD,” comprises therapy, skills training, and medication. However, many people wait to incorporate medication into their ADHD treatment. While clients of all ages may see an improvement in their symptoms with therapy and training alone, others find a greater benefit from combining these treatments with ADHD medication.

Understanding ADHD

As described by the American Psychiatric Association, ADHD is a mental disorder that affects one’s ability to focus, complete tasks, and control impulses. It is one of the most common childhood mental disorders, although many adults live with ADHD as well. These symptoms can manifest in various ways, depending on age.

Adult ADHD

Adults with ADHD may struggle to complete work tasks, pay attention during meetings, and maintain social relationships. They may have poor organizational skills and lack impulse control. It is common for adults with ADHD to be late and impatient, lose their belongings, and forget to pay bills on time.

Childhood ADHD

Similarly, children with ADHD often struggle to pay attention in various situations (in class, at home), lack patience, and find it hard to sit still or wait their turn. They are often told they talk too much. The main issue with childhood ADHD is that, if untreated, it can negatively impact one’s academic life and follow them into adulthood.

Signs it may be time to try ADHD medication

No matter the age, psychiatrists typically recommend combining multiple treatment methods to help a client with ADHD. Therapy and skills training can give clients the tools they need to manage their symptoms, such as through routine-building and time-management techniques. In particular, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — the type of therapy most often used for ADHD — can help clients change thought patterns that feed their ADHD, replacing them with more helpful ones.

Treatment is an investment. To reap the benefits of that investment sooner, many clients find it helpful to take medication. A client should consider trying ADHD medication if the following applies:

• ADHD symptoms get in the way of work or school: When one’s ADHD symptoms become severe enough to result in poor job performance or bad grades, consider medication.
• Symptoms begin to interfere with personal relationships: Since ADHD is marked by forgetfulness, impulsivity, and impatience, it can negatively impact friendships and relationships. In these cases, medication can reduce symptom intensity, putting a better social life within reach.
• Therapy alone does not feel like enough: When symptoms are so severe that they interfere with therapy homework and participation, medication may be needed to bring meaningful relief.

Depending on a client’s needs, a psychiatrist may prescribe a stimulant, non-stimulant, or antidepressant for ADHD. These medications may sometimes be prescribed together. The psychiatrist will work with each client (and their parents if the client is a child or adolescent) to find the prescription most beneficial for them.