ADHD Treatment for Adults: Options That Support Mental Health
ADHD treatments for adults may be different than those for children. Often, ADHD persists into adulthood—up to 6% of adults currently live with ADHD. Treatment for adults with ADHD can be effective in reducing symptoms like extreme restlessness or distraction. Below, learn more about how healthcare providers address adult ADHD symptoms and when you should talk to a therapist or your primary care provider about hyperactivity or inattentive symptoms of ADHD.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis in adults
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 of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), adults can also be diagnosed with ADHD. Working with a skilled mental health professional who has experience evaluating 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 under diagnosed. The Updated European Consensus Statement notes that ADHD in adults is not widely accepted in European countries and that some mental health systems in Europe may be overlooking 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 mental health conditions. ADHD commonly co-occurs with mood disorders, sleep disorders, and substance use concerns, and some research even indicates that ADHD may have links to specific personality disorders, including 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 concerns 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 disruption
- 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, which makes timely assessment and support especially important.
Options for ADHD treatment for adults: Talk therapy, medication, and other coping options
ADHD in children is typically treated with a combination of 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
- medication, when clinically appropriate.
Another option to support adults with ADHD is to connect with an ADHD coach, or skills-based support 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
Medication may be considered for adult ADHD and may be effective for many people. Some medications work by affecting 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. Based on a licensed psychiatric provider’s evaluation, medication may support better awareness and control over one’s behavior, as well as fewer symptoms of ADHD. Because medication decisions are individualized and require ongoing monitoring, it’s important to work with a qualified medical or psychiatric provider.
Medication management, covered by insurance
$20 average copay with insurance*
Connect with a psychiatrist*Medication is prescribed only when clinically appropriate and is not guaranteed. Pricing, availability, insurance coverage, and copays vary by plan, location, and provider availability are not guaranteed.
Non-stimulant medications may also be considered for those experiencing symptoms of ADHD. For example, selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NRIs) such as atomoxetine are are used for ADHD, and other non-stimulent options can also be considered depending on the persons needs. Different medications have different side-effect profiles, and tolerability varies from person to person, as well as effectiveness. Medication can help reduceimpulsivity and lead to symptom reduction for some people, and clinical trials have shown that some individuals may see significant improvement, but finding the right treatment approach can be key.
Medication is often considered 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 ADHD medications 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 or other licensed prescribing provider.
BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift as an additional care option alongside therapy. Psychiatry services may include medication management when clinically appropriate, based on a full evaluation by a licensed psychiatric provider. Medication availability and coverage may vary by member location, clinical appropriateness, and individual pharmacy/insurance benefits. Prescribing decisions are made by the treating clinicians. We do not guarantee that any specific medication will be prescribed or covered by a member’s insurance plan.
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 changes.
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 can help improve symptoms and support healthier coping and behavior patterns.
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 support overall well-being and symptom management.
- 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 exercise can support both physical and mental health and may help with some co-occurring symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or sleep problems.
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 help improve symptoms and functioning in addition to medication management per research.
Seeking support and care for symptoms: Patients with ADHD
If you’re experiencing symptoms of ADHD, consider meeting with a healthcare professional. A doctor or primary care provider can evaluate for physical health issues or other factors that may contribute to symptoms. Next, a provider can conduct an evaluation to assess for 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 supporting adults with ADHD, as they may have a more extensive clinical perspective that can help you get an accurate evaluation and treatment plan and schedule follow-up visits as necessary for medication management, when appropriate.
A therapist can help share new skills and behavioral practice that help improve concentration and manage other symptoms of ADHD, supporting the development of coping strategies.
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.
With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed therapist who you can meet with via phone, video call, or in-app messaging to address the challenges you may be facing. Research suggests that online and in-person therapy can offer similar benefits, so the format you choose is typically up to you.
Getting started with BetterHelp is simple:
- Take a short questionnaire. Answer a few quick questions about your goals, preferences, and the type of therapist you’d like to work with.
- Get matched quickly. In most cases, you can be matched with a licensed provider in as little as 48 hours.
- Start therapy on your terms. Schedule sessions by video, phone, or live chat, and join from anywhere you have an internet connection.
Finding the right therapist isn’t just important – it’s everything.
Find your matchBetterHelp also now offers access to psychiatry services through UpLift. Psychiatry can be part of a holistic mental health care experience alongside therapy, and services may include medication management when clinically appropriate based on provider evaluation.
Takeaway
Does BetterHelp offer psychiatry and medication management?
Yes. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift. BetterHelp psychiatry and medication management services provide virtual mental health care for individuals ages 18 and older who are experiencing mild to severe behavioral health symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and other conditions that may benefit from psychiatric consultation, prescriptions, and ongoing medication management. Psychiatry is an additional care option available alongside therapy and can be part of a holistic mental health care experience. Psychiatry services may include medication management when clinically appropriate. All treatment decisions are made by a licensed psychiatric provider.
Are psychiatry and medication management covered by insurance on BetterHelp?
Yes. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services that may be covered by insurance through UpLift. Many UpLift providers are in-network with most major insurance carriers (for eligible members the average copay is only $20). The cost of your medication will depend on your insurance plan. We recommend speaking with your insurance to learn how much your medication will cost. Try asking about your copay, deductible, and whether they cover your prescribed medication.
What are the effects of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can lead to negative health effects in adults, including the following:
- 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 substance use
- Difficulty managing time, prioritizing tasks, or meeting deadlines
- Increased risk for substance-related concerns
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-related concerns.
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, 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, 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 medication and mental health therapy the most effective ADHD treatment for adults?
Both 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 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?
Symptoms and impairment can change over time. For some adults, outward hyperactivity may lessen while day-to-day impairment becomes more noticeable as life demands increase. 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:
- Medications: These are among the most commonly considered treatments for ADHD. Some medications affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which may help improve focus, attention, and impulse control for some people. Medication options for ADHD are individualized and may be considered as part of a broader treatment plan when clinically appropriate.
- Talk therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most common therapeutic approaches for adult ADHD, and some clinicians may also use related approaches such as DBT skills. CBT helps individuals develop coping strategies to manage symptoms like inattention and impulsivity, while DBT focuses on emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.
- 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 may help strengthen skills involved in executive functions, though individual benefit may vary.
- Neurofeedback: Neurofeedback has been studied as a complementary approach for ADHD, but evidence is mixed and it is not considered a first-line treatment. By monitoring brain waves, individuals may learn to recognize and modify patterns associated with inattention or impulsivity.
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 recommended by a licensed prescribing provider, medication can be an effective treatment option 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 time 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 may look different from childhood ADHD, with less overt hyperactivity and more internal restlessness, disorganization, or emotional strain in some people.
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