- December 15, 2022
- By Content Writer at The Center for Developmental Psychiatry
A Guide to ADHD Treatment for Adults
An estimated 2.8% of adults have ADHD. While a lot of ADHD research is focused on children, many adults suffer in silence. It may even be difficult for them to get a diagnosis at all.
Once they’re diagnosed, they get to start treatment. ADHD treatment for adults is very similar to ADHD treatment for children.
Managing ADHD is difficult. There’s no one “magic cure,” and as a matter of fact, using a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes may be the best way to manage ADHD in adults and children alike.
We’re here to talk all about how to manage ADHD in adulthood. Read on to learn more.
Psychotherapy for ADHD
Psychotherapy won’t cure ADHD, but it can help patients develop coping mechanisms and keep their condition under control. Certain lesser-known ADHD symptoms, such as rejection-sensitive dysphoria, benefit massively from therapy.
There are several different forms of therapy that work well for patients with ADHD, but cognitive behavioral therapy is the most popular.
Cognitive behavioral therapy revolves around the idea that negative thoughts influence negative behaviors and worsen mental health problems. If someone is able to change their thought patterns, they’ll be able to improve their overall mental health and outcomes.
Cognitive behavioral therapists also teach their patients fantastic coping mechanisms. People with ADHD often struggle with racing thoughts, feelings of inadequacy, and trouble with focus. While coping mechanisms aren’t a replacement for medication per se, they can help while the patient is adjusting to medication or when they choose to stop using medication.
Some adults with ADHD also benefit from family therapy or couple’s therapy due to the way that their condition can influence their relationships.
Medication for ADHD
Many people are afraid of taking medication for ADHD, but they shouldn’t be. Taking medication for ADHD is no different than wearing glasses to correct poor vision. You’re giving your body something extra so it can function the same way that everyone else’s can.
Not all medications are effective for every patient. It often takes several tries before someone finds the right medication and the right dosage. Working with a great doctor is essential here.
A good doctor should listen to their patient’s needs and thoughts. If a medication isn’t working, they should be able to work together with the patient to find a better match.
Medication is not a cure. It’s one tool for your ADHD toolbox.
Stimulant Medication
Most ADHD medication is stimulant medication.
Many adults prefer long-acting stimulant medications. These medications work for anywhere between 10 and 14 hours at a time. Short-acting stimulants last for much shorter periods of time, but they act more quickly.
Common stimulant ADHD medications include:
- Methylphenidate
- Dextroamphetamine
- Amphetamine
- Amphetamine sulfate
There are other options. You may know some of these medications by more common brand names like Ritalin, Adderall, and Vyvanse.
Stimulant medication isn’t right for everyone. People who struggle with eating disorders, psychosis, heart problems, and severe anxiety (among other things) may want to use these medications with caution or try another option.
These medications boost certain brain chemicals, boost energy, and keep you focused.
Common side effects include:
- Loss of appetite
- Jitteryness
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Insomnia
These side effects generally go away over time. If they don’t, talk to your doctor about switching medications or doses.
Non-Stimulant Medication
Non-stimulant medications are less common for people with ADHD, but not unheard of. If a patient doesn’t want to take stimulants, can’t take stimulants, or found that stimulants were ineffective, there are other options.
Antidepressants can be effective for ADHD. Bupropion (Welbutrin) in particular tends to work well.
Atomoxetine, otherwise known as Straterra, may also be effective either on its own or in combination with stimulant medications.
It can take a while to find the right medication (or combination of medications) for ADHD treatment, but the wait is worthwhile.
Lifestyle Changes for Managing ADHD
There are also things adults can do at home to help keep their ADHD under control. These are best used in combination with medication and psychotherapy.
Here are just a few options.
Develop a Routine
People with ADHD benefit from structure and routines. Many adults with ADHD who were diagnosed late in life didn’t notice it in childhood because they had strict routines provided for them in school. When those routines went away, they no longer had anything to keep them “in check.”
As an adult, you’re responsible for your own routines.
Keep a planner and be as consistent with it as possible. Put alerts on your phone for things you have to do. Try to keep your daily schedule consistent.
These things are difficult, but they will help.
Exercise
Exercise is fantastic for people with ADHD. It can reduce symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity, soothe racing thoughts, and more. It’s also good for combating some of the less pleasant side effects of stimulant medications.
Patients should find an exercise they enjoy so they can stick with it. Even starting every morning with a yoga session will be beneficial.
Get Enough Sleep
Many adults with ADHD have trouble sleeping. Getting enough high-quality sleep will help you manage your ADHD, but that’s easier said than done.
Avoid having devices nearby when you’re trying to sleep. It’s common for people with ADHD to find themselves scrolling through their phones compulsively when it’s time for bed.
Make sure you take your medication early enough that it won’t impact your sleep. You should also avoid caffeine any time after noon.
Set a bedtime and stick to it. It’s helpful to have a “nighttime routine” so your brain can adjust to the idea that it’s time to sleep.
ADHD Treatment for Adults: Are You Ready to Start?
ADHD is frustrating but manageable. ADHD treatment for adults includes a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Through these methods, adults can get their ADHD under control.
Are you ready to start ADHD treatment? We want to meet you. Schedule a video session or in-person appointment with us today.