ADHD Treatment Options for Adults

If you have been diagnosed with adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or “ADHD,” you may benefit from ADHD treatment. While every client is different, most struggle with the hallmark symptoms of ADHD: trouble focusing, difficulty completing tasks, and poor impulse control. A psychiatrist will develop a plan to manage the symptoms of ADHD that interfere with your life the most. Read on to learn more about common ADHD treatment options for adults.

Medication

Adult ADHD treatment will typically involve prescription medication. Since ADHD is marked by low dopamine levels, ADHD medication strives to increase the level of these chemicals in the brain to reduce symptom intensity. Generally, a psychiatrist will prescribe one or more of the following medications:

• Stimulants: These medications can either come in the form of methylphenidates or amphetamines, and they work by increasing the levels of both dopamine and norepinephrine. Stimulants may last about four hours (immediate-release) or from six to 16 hours (extended-release), depending on the type. Keep in mind that stimulants are controlled substances.
• Non-stimulants: These medications are often effective when a client has not benefited from stimulants because of their side effects. They may come in the form of alpha-2 adrenergic agonists or norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NRIs). Unlike stimulants, non-stimulants are not controlled substances.
• Antidepressants: These medications treat a variety of mental disorders. There are many types available. For ADHD, in particular, a psychiatrist will prescribe either a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) or a tricyclic antidepressant.

Therapy

Medication may not be enough to treat ADHD alone. In fact, it is common for psychiatrists to recommend pairing medication and therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has proved effective for a range of mental disorders, including ADHD. The goal is to replace negative thought patterns with healthy ones that empower the client. For example, a client with ADHD may learn how to cope with the negative thoughts associated with symptom flare-ups and learn tools to manage flare-ups. The mental health provider will tailor CBT to target the client’s problem areas.

There are other types of therapy available. Occupational therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) are common alternatives to CBT. Still, these therapies focus on teaching coping skills and tools to manage symptoms. This may involve learning:

• Routine-building skills
• Time management skills
• Anger management techniques
• How to avoid making impulsive decisions
• Strategies for completing tasks at work and home

Note that ADHD therapy can be effective one-on-one or in a group setting. It depends on several aspects of a client’s situation—social, mental, and financial. Group therapy tends to be the most affordable option, although people with severe symptoms may benefit more from individual therapy. Speak to a psychiatrist for recommendations on which may be most effective.