ADHD Treatment For Adults
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Information regarding attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments often focuses on how to reduce the impact of the disorder on children in school and at home. However, in 60% or more of cases, ADHD persists beyond childhood and into adulthood. In fact, up to 6% of adults currently live with some form of ADHD.
It can be frustrating when you're searching for information about adult ADHD treatment and are only able to find tips intended for children. 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.
Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Why learning about ADHD symptoms can be difficult
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.
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”. Even 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.
Why treatment can be important
Difficulties managing ADHD symptoms and impulsive behavior 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.
ADHD treatment for adults
Treatment for adult symptoms of ADHD is often approached from multiple angles and may include talk therapy, environmental changes, lifestyle adjustments, and/or 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.
Treatment with medication
Stimulant medication is sometimes prescribed for adult ADHD and can be effective in treating symptoms in around 70% of cases. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for executive function. Executive function includes working memory, impulse control, and the ability to persist in working on a task. Stimulant medication 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 for ADHD symptoms. Some non-stimulant medications may be less likely to cause significant side effects, but not every adult with ADHD responds to them.
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. Some may also choose to forgo medication in favor of therapy, behavioral treatments, and lifestyle modifications.
Finding support for mental disorders through therapy
Research suggests the most effective overall treatment for adult ADHD tends to be stimulant medication combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Without medication, CBT can still be an effective method of treatment. This is because some adults with ADHD find it hard to manage their thoughts and emotions and may experience emotion dysregulation or a mood disorder.
Daily lifestyle changes you can make
While not a replacement for medication and therapy in most cases, certain lifestyle adjustments and other behavioral treatments may help with ADHD symptom control to some degree. These include:
- Exercising regularly. Cultivating an exercise routine may be the single most beneficial lifestyle change you can make to improve core symptoms of adult ADHD. Various studies indicate that exercise can increase a person's ability to maintain focus and attention.
- Adjusting your diet. Making certain changes to your diet may also help 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 good sleep hygiene may help.
- Cultivating a mindfulness practice. A regular mindfulness practice is commonly recommended for various mental disorders, and ADHD is no exception. Mindfulness may help with things like focus and emotional control. More research into its applications for ADHD in particular is needed, but one study suggests “promising preliminary support for its efficacy”.
Seeking adult ADHD symptom support
If you’re experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it’s typically recommended that you meet with a healthcare professional. A doctor can conduct testing to determine whether there may be an underlying physical condition that’s causing symptoms. Next, a provider can conduct an evaluation to diagnose ADHD and/or another mental health condition may be present and suggest a treatment plan.
Support through therapy
Online therapy
ADHD is a developmental disorder that, left untreated, can be challenging to live with. People with ADHD may be more likely to experience other mental health conditions like substance abuse and depression, making treatment all the more important. Treatment for ADHD in adults can include medication, therapy, and/or lifestyle changes. If you’re experiencing symptoms, it may be worth meeting with a qualified healthcare professional for advice and guidance on the recommended treatment for your unique situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): ADHD treatment for adults
Below are some frequently asked questions on this topic.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), ADHD is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder. As such, treatment for ADHD typically needs to be multifaceted. A common approach that has shown some efficacy for adult ADHD is a combination of stimulant medication and psychological counseling.
Per reputable resources such as the DSM, first-line treatment for ADHD in adults is usually a combination of “medication, education, skills training, and psychological counseling”.
What is the most common ADHD medication for adults?
The most common ADHD medications for adults are psychostimulants, which may help with symptoms by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain.
How do you correct adult attention disorder behavior?
Adult ADHD behavior can usually be effectively addressed and managed through some combination of medication, education, skills training, and/or psychological counseling.
Can treating ADHD help with anxiety symptoms?
ADHD and anxiety often occur together. In fact, research suggests that the majority of adults with ADHD have a coexisting psychiatric condition, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed. Treating one may help with symptoms of the other, but it’s usually best to consult with a medical or mental health professional before undertaking any sort of treatment for either.
What is the safest attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medication?
Technically speaking, most every form of prescribed medication carries some risk. With that said, ADHD medicine is generally considered to be both safe and effective for many people. There are also certain non-stimulant ADHD medications available that may pose fewer risks (e.g. non-stimulant atomoxetine).
Which ADHD medication works best for anxiety has to do with many factors. Some stimulants may help people with ADHD effectively manage their symptoms, which may also lower anxiety. Antidepressants may work better for other adults with ADHD in reducing their anxiety symptoms. To find out what may work best for you, consult a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in ADHD.
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