ADHD Treatment for Adults: Options That Support Mental Health
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Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis in developed brains
When you're searching for information about treatment for ADHD in adults and are only able to find tips intended for children, you might feel frustrated. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, which defines diagnostic criteria for mood disorders, personality disorders, and other psychiatric disorders from a clinical perspective, adults can be diagnosed with ADHD, but many healthcare providers may miss this diagnosis. Working with a skilled mental health professional who has experience diagnosing ADHD in adults can be beneficial.
If you’re an adult experiencing ADHD and want to know more about treatment options, such as ADHD medications or working with a mental health professional, see below.
Barriers to diagnosing ADHD and identifying symptoms
Depending on where you are, ADHD may be underdiagnosed. The Updated European Consensus Statement notes that ADHD in adults is not widely accepted in European countries and that European psychiatry may be neglecting adults with ADHD. That’s one reason it may be difficult to find appropriate information about ADHD diagnosis and treatment options.
A significant stigma around ADHD still exists today. One academic review on ADHD notes that in interviews with the general public about ADHD, nearly all participants expressed the belief adult ADHD symptoms are “childish and socially inappropriate.” Seeing such behaviors on video “increased both tendencies of peer rejection and feelings of hostility.” These prejudices and misconceptions about what causes ADHD can increase negative views of those who live with ADHD symptoms, such as the false belief that ADHD is caused by excessive sugar consumption or poor parenting.
Co-Occurring and Related Disorders
Another reason why diagnosing ADHD in adults can be challenging is the presence of other psychiatric disorders. ADHD commonly co-occurs with mood disorders, sleep disorders, and substance abuse, and some research even indicates that ADHD may have links to specific personality disorders, specifically borderline personality disorder. While these conditions all have significant differences from a clinical perspective, some symptoms, like challenges with emotional regulation, can make obtaining a precise diagnosis difficult.
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Importance of seeking treatment in any phase of life
Many adults with ADHD were not diagnosed as children due to lack of information or stigma, and may have been labeled as someone who couldn't control impulses, or a behavioral problem. Untreated ADHD can harm one’s relationships, career, and ability to handle daily responsibilities adequately. Not receiving support may lead to low self-esteem, mood swings, and other mental health conditions in adults, including substance use disorders or anxiety disorders. The American Psychiatric Association recognizes that adult ADHD can cause those with the condition to experience difficulty with:
Focus
Time management
Sleep (including sleep disorders)
Impulsive behaviors
Accomplishing goals
Inattention
Hyperactivity
Impulsivity
Difficulties managing ADHD symptoms and impulsive behavior in adulthood without guidance or support can also result in increased stress levels and lower self-esteem. Finally, some research reports an association between ADHD and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Having the appropriate information and treatment can represent life-saving care.
Options for ADHD treatment for adults: Talk therapy, medication, and other coping options
ADHD in children is typically treated with a combination of stimulant medication, parent training, and other forms of behaviour therapy to address problem behaviors. Adult treatment is also multifaceted, although it takes a slightly different approach. Treatment for adult symptoms of ADHD is often approached from multiple angles and may include:
talk therapy
environmental changes
lifestyle adjustments
ADHD medication.
Another option to treat ADHD in adults is to connect with an ADHD coach, a professional who can assist adults with ADHD with time management, organizational skills, goal setting, social skills, and more problematic areas for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
You might choose to approach treatment by first recognizing how your symptoms affect your life, physical health, and mental health, and then implementing solutions and seeking help to address those specific challenges.
Evidence based pharmacological treatment with medication
Stimulant medication is sometimes prescribed for adult ADHD and may be effective for many people. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals, like dopamine and norepinephrine, in the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for executive function. Executive functions include working memory, impulse control, and the ability to persist in working on a task. Central nervous system stimulants may enable better awareness and control over one’s behavior, as well as fewer symptoms of ADHD. Substance misuse is possible, so it’s important that ADHD medication is carefully monitored by a mental health professional.
Non-stimulant medications may also be prescribed for those experiencing symptoms of ADHD. For example, selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are sometimes recommended as a non-stimulant alternative for ADHD symptoms. Some non-stimulant medications and certain antidepressants may be less likely to cause significant side effects, but not every adult with ADHD responds to them. Medication can help decrease impulsivity and lead to symptom reduction, and clinical trials have shown that some people can see significant improvement, but finding the right medication can be key.
Stimulants are a first line treatment for children with ADHD, and often a child takes medication alongside therapy and behavioral training. Medication for adult ADHD can be of enormous assistance for many adults, but not everyone finds a medication that works for them. Others learn that some adult ADHD stimulants cause unfavorable side effects for them, such as decreased appetite and weight loss. Some may also choose to forgo medication in favor of therapy, behavioral treatments, and lifestyle modifications.
You should not start, stop, or change the dose of ADHD medications without the advice of your physician.
Therapy for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and other mental health conditions
Research suggests the most effective overall treatment for adult ADHD tends to be medication combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Without medication, CBT can still be an effective method of treatment. Some adults with ADHD find managing their thoughts and emotions difficult and may experience emotion dysregulation or a mood disorder.
Other behavioral and psychological therapies
Cognitive behavioral therapy, metacognitive therapy, and other approaches to behavior therapy can help people with ADHD learn coping skills, problem-solving skills, and behavioral interventions. These interventions can have clinical implications, leading to significant improvement in symptoms and an increase in positive behaviors.
Mindfulness and Alternative Approaches
Mindfulness meditation training can also help people with ADHD learn how to navigate periods of increased anxiety. Learning additional coping skills and stress management techniques can help with symptom reduction and may have clinical implications in a multi-pronged approach for how to treat adult ADHD.
Managing attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms
While not a replacement for medication and therapy, certain lifestyle adjustments and other behavioral treatments may help with adult ADHD symptom control to some degree. Various lifestyle interventions can help improve coping skills, build problem-solving skills, and contribute to behavior management. These include:
- Exercising regularly: Various studies indicate that exercise can increase a person's ability to maintain focus and attention, which can be important for adults with ADHD.
- Eating nutritious foods: Eating nutritious foods may also improve ADHD symptoms, though you should always speak to a doctor or nutritionist first.
- Getting enough sleep: As one study puts it, “relationships of ADHD with sleep problems, psychiatric comorbidities, and medications are complex and multidirectional.” It’s not uncommon for those with ADHD to experience sleep problems, which can then exacerbate symptoms. Prioritizing sleep hygiene may also help ADHD symptoms.
- Cultivating a mindfulness practice: A regular mindfulness practice is commonly recommended for various mental disorders, and ADHD is no exception. Mindfulness may help adults with ADHD with stress reduction, self-awareness, and improving focus and emotional control. Though preliminary support has been established, more research is recommended to understand this option.
Healthy lifestyle practices offer a solid foundation of protective factors for both mental and physical health and can be an effective part of a comprehensive plan to treat adult ADHD. Stress management and regular exercise regulate blood pressure and reduce symptoms of potential comorbid conditions like depression or anxiety disorders, and other symptoms like difficulty sleeping that can impact day-to-day life for someone with ADHD.
Parent and Family Support for ADHD Management
Parent and family support can be essential in managing ADHD symptoms. The CDC recommends parent training for children younger than 12 and as a first-line treatment for children ages 6 and under. While parents and family can have a significant impact on a child’s behavior management, the support of loved ones can help adults with ADHD reinforce coping skills, problem-solving skills, and other techniques that can help manage their symptoms.
Research and Clinical Evidence
If you’re an adult who thinks you may be exhibiting symptoms of ADHD, you’re not alone. Research has found that new diagnoses of ADHD among adults have increased from 2020 to 2023.
As for treatment, behavior therapy can have beneficial clinical implications and lead to a significant improvement in symptoms from a clinical perspective. One systematic review has found that medications like stimulants can be beneficial in the short term, and research is currently underway for additional treatments for ADHD in adults, with numerous clinical trials underway.
Seeking support and care for symptoms: Patients with ADHD
If you’re experiencing symptoms of ADHD, consider meeting with a healthcare professional for adults. A doctor or primary care provider can conduct testing to determine whether an underlying physical condition is causing symptoms. Next, a provider can conduct an evaluation to diagnose ADHD or another mental health condition that may be present and suggest a treatment plan. It can also be beneficial to seek out healthcare providers with experience diagnosing and treating adults with ADHD, as they may have a more extensive clinical perspective that can help you get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan and schedule follow-up visits as necessary for medication management if necessary.
Benefits of online therapy for adults with ADHD symptoms
For those who are interested in meeting with a therapist to address potential ADHD symptoms and treatments, they can connect with one online or in person. If you’d prefer to attend traditional, in-office sessions, you can search for a provider in your local area. If you’d prefer to meet with someone virtually from the comfort of your home, you might consider online therapy.
Takeaway
What are the effects of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults?
- Mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
- Challenges with social interactions and communication
- Impulsive behaviors and mood swings
- Higher likelihood of risky behaviors, such as using substances
- Difficulty managing time, prioritizing tasks, or meeting deadlines
- Increased risk for conditions like substance abuse
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adults can often be effectively managed with a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications, and self-help strategies. Individual and family therapy can help both children and adults address the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as any co-occurring challenges like anxiety, problematic family dynamics, or substance abuse.
What happens if attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder goes untreated in adulthood?
Untreated attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can lead to a range of negative outcomes. These include mental health challenges, low self-esteem, relationship strain, self-medication through use of illegal drugs,problems in school or work, and a heightened risk of behavioral issues.
However, there are a number of effective, evidence-based treatments for ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications (like stimulants), support groups, and connecting with friends and family members can help people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder manage their symptoms and work more productively.
Are stimulant medication and mental health therapy the most effective ADHD treatment for adults?
Both stimulant medication and therapy are considered effective, evidence-based treatments for adults, but individual needs can vary. Working with a medical or mental health provider is the best way to determine what combination of ADHD treatments would be most effective for managing your specific symptoms.
Do behavioral therapies like CBT help adults manage ADHD?
Yes, cognitive behavioral therapy can be extremely effective for management of ADHD symptoms, as can adjacent therapeutic approaches such as dialectical behavioral therapy. These approaches help by teaching coping strategies for symptoms, as well as offering training for emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.
Does ADHD get worse with age, or do symptoms change over time?
Experts agree that the biological symptoms of ADHD typically stabilize, but impairment (the ways symptoms disrupt your life) often becomes worse as a person ages. It is believed this happens because the demands of life become more intense, as the individual struggles to bridge the gap between demands and self-regulation. This is why treatment can be important. A professional can assist in building healthy coping mechanisms and teaching self-regulation skills to support life demands.
What is the best treatment plan for ADHD in adults?
Because individual cases can differ, the best treatment plan for ADHD may also differ. A medical or mental health care provider can work with you to create a treatment plan that is suited to your own personal needs, using evidence-based therapeutic techniques.
Treatment of ADHD in adults may include:
Stimulant medications: These are among the most commonly prescribed treatments for ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which can help improve focus, attention, and impulse control. Stimulant medications for ADHD are typically considered a first-line treatment and can be highly effective when taken as directed.
Talk therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) are common therapeutic approaches used in the treatment of adult ADHD. CBT helps individuals develop coping strategies to manage symptoms like inattention and impulsivity, while DBT focuses on emotional regulation and interpersonal skills. For adults with ADHD, therapy can also address the emotional and social challenges associated with the disorder and be an especially effective form of treatment.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder coaching: This specialized form of ADHD treatment focuses on helping individuals develop practical strategies for managing time, setting goals, and maintaining organization. ADHD coaches work with clients to create personalized routines and address the unique challenges they face in daily life. For adults struggling with ADHD, coaching can be a valuable tool in building sustainable habits.
Cognitive training: This ADHD treatment aims to enhance brain functions related to attention, memory, and problem-solving. Treatment through cognitive training exercises help strengthen neural pathways involved in executive functions, making it easier for individuals with ADHD to concentrate and complete tasks.
Neurofeedback: As an alternative treatment for ADHD, neurofeedback trains the brain to regulate its own activity. By monitoring brain waves, individuals learn to recognize and modify patterns associated with inattention or impulsivity. Neurofeedback is increasingly used as a complementary treatment for adult ADHD, helping improve self-regulation and focus over time.
In addition to working with trained professionals, adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can benefit from organizational tools, exercise, and other self-help strategies.
Can adults manage ADHD without medication?
Yes, for many people, symptoms of ADHD can be successfully managed without medication. When prescribed by a medical provider, stimulant medication can be an effective treatment for ADHD, but many people are able to manage symptoms with non-medical treatments such as talk therapy, skills training, and lifestyle changes.
What are the most common coping strategies and “ADHD rules” (like the 20-minute or 24-hour rule)?
ADHD therapists and specialists have developed a number of coping strategies for managing ADHD, including the following:
The 20 minute rule: when working on a task, give it your full attention for 20 minutes straight, then take a short break before returning to the original task or switching to a different activity
The 24 hour rule: to help with emotional regulation, when you experience something upsetting, do not react for 24 hours. This gives you time to process your response and cool off between emotion and action
Goal setting: Set clear goals to determine whether they align with your actions
Create time buffers: Allow yourself additional to prepare for events, to avoid being late
Establish a sleep schedule: Adhere to consistent sleep and wake times to help regulate sleep
Can adults with ADHD live a normal, productive life with treatment?
Yes, they can. Like many conditions, ADHD exists on a spectrum, and while some cases may be more challenging to manage, treatment is generally effective.
What are the hallmark symptoms of adult ADHD, and how do they differ from
childhood symptoms?
Adult ADHD features more inwardly-focused symptoms. For instance, a child may be more likely to show outward signs like restlessness, fidgeting, and disruption, while an adult internalizes these inclinations and struggles with more of a mental storm that makes it difficult to concentrate or focus on tasks. In addition, an adult may also have difficulty with emotional regulation, but while a child may demonstrate this through tantrums, an adult often internalizes these feelings and experiences them as anxiety or depression.
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