ADHD Treatment for Adults: Medication, Therapy, & Lifestyle Changes

What Is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological mental health condition that can manifest as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Adults with ADHD often face challenges with executive dysfunction and emotional dysregulation that can negatively impact functioning at work, school, and in relationships. Treatment for ADHD in adults can help individuals cope with these difficulties by learning healthy coping strategies and symptom management skills.

ADHD Treatment for Adults

Determining how to treat ADHD in adults takes intention and effort, and many people may feel apprehensive about seeking initial advice. However, professional support and guidance can provide invaluable insights into effective treatment options. Help for ADHD is available, often in the form of medication and psychotherapy.

Stephen V. Faraone, Ph.D. and Vice Chair of Research of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Upstate Medical University, adds, “Guidelines indicate medication as the first approach to treatment. When that is not sufficient, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) should be added. Talk therapies (other than CBT), exercise and support groups can be very helpful for improving a person’s well-being, but they are unlikely to reduce symptoms of ADHD.”

Medication For Adult ADHD

Adult ADHD medications are common in treatment for adult ADHD. These options are effective, and most insurance companies cover prescriptions. Typically, prescribers recommend stimulants or non-stimulant ADHD medications, depending on the individual, side effects, and goals for treatment. In other cases, some antidepressants can prove beneficial. Medication can help manage ADHD symptoms, increase attention, and reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity.¹

Medications for treating adult ADHD include:

Stimulants

Stimulants are a well-studied and broadly accepted adult ADHD treatment. Providers may recommend these medications to individuals struggling with attention, performance, and memory issues. However, like with any medication, adverse effects are possible. 

Stimulants may come as liquids, sprinkles, tablets, capsules, or patches.(FN1) Many notice a stark difference in functionality when they miss a dose, so people should ensure they follow a set medication schedule. 

Recognizing the benefits of ADHD medication for adults is important, but individuals should also acknowledge the risk of intentional or unintentional misuse. However, when used as intended, this type of medication can be life-changing for those struggling with ADHD symptoms as an adult.

Some stimulants like Adderall may affect women with ADHD differently than men with ADHD, so consult a doctor about your options and potential ADHD medication side effects before starting a new medication.

Commonly prescribed stimulants for adult ADHD include:¹

• Ritalin
• Concerta (methylphenidate)
• Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
• Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine sulfate)
• Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine)
• Jornay PM (methylphenidate)

Non-stimulants

Certain healthcare providers and individuals may opt for non-stimulants over stimulants because of adverse effects, comorbid issues, potential for abuse, or simply personal preference. Some research suggests that 10-30% of those with ADHD either do not respond to or do not tolerate stimulants well.² Because of this, non-stimulants offer an alternative for individuals seeking symptom relief.

Common non-stimulant ADHD medications for adults include:²

• Strattera (atomoxetine)
• Intuniv (guanfacine)
• Qelbree (viloxazine)
• Kapvay (clonidine)

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are generally not a first-line ADHD treatment for adults because of potential adverse effects. Still, they can be helpful when people do not respond to stimulants or non-stimulants.^3,4

Adults with ADHD can exhibit some symptoms that resemble depression, anxiety, or a more serious mood or personality disorder. Shared symptoms might be impulsivity, changes in mood, angry outbursts, or boredom. However, the impulsivity component of ADHD is typically short-lived and not as intense or risky for those with other psychiatric disorders.³

Other Medications

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are the oldest class of antidepressants and can help when treating adult ADHD. Providers rarely prescribe these medications because of known, dangerous interactions with certain foods and adverse effects like weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and hypertension.⁴ Your doctor may prescribe an MAOI or other type of antidepressant if you are resistant to other forms of treatment.

Questions to Ask About Medication Treatment for Adult ADHD

Bringing a list of questions to ask your provider is important before taking any medication. Communicate with your provider about any other mental or physical health issues (diagnosed or not) so they can recommend the best options. You may face some trial and error with medications, and your doctor may switch your prescription if you have serious adverse effects.

Here are questions to ask before beginning a new medication for adult ADHD:

• What side effects are the least and most common?
• What is the likelihood this medication will produce an adverse effect?
• How do I know if the medication is helping?
• How long does it take to see results?
• What should I do if I experience an adverse side effect?
• What can we do if this medication doesn’t help?

Therapy for ADHD in Adults

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) are effective ADHD treatments for adults. Working with a psychotherapist can help you explore what you can and cannot control on your own, with or without the aid of medications. Psychotherapy is intensive and specific to individual needs, as medications are not a simple “fix-all.” 

Finding a neurodiversity-affirming therapist can go a long way when treating adult ADHD. Sometimes, people enter therapy thinking they want to address one issue but find a lot to examine in other areas of their lives.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT for ADHD analyzes the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This evidence-based approach aims to help adults with ADHD identify automatic negative thoughts and “thinking mistakes” to improve mood. CBT can help clients develop skills to improve focus, planning, organizing, and self-image by practicing self-control.⁴

The length of CBT treatment will vary based on experience in therapy, level of symptom management, and other factors. However, you can expect at least six sessions or more.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

A hallmark of DBT includes mindfulness and distress tolerance. Therapists teach clients specific skills to improve their ability to organize, plan, self-motivate, regulate emotions, and examine interpersonal effectiveness.⁵

For example, someone struggling with conflict due to ADHD symptoms can learn to control their impulses and examine how they communicate through words or body language. DBT is a longer-term (several months) approach that includes individual and group therapy.

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Like with any mental health diagnosis, people can achieve the ability to accept and tolerate varying levels of distress through mindfulness and being present. ACT is a therapeutic approach emphasizing mindfulness, acceptance, defusion, self-as-context, committed action, and values.⁶

A therapist specializing in ACT might help you explore your values and if your behavior aligns with these beliefs. Although ADHD is a neurocognitive disorder, conscious and unconscious avoidance can make difficulties with attention even more severe. ACT typically lasts at least 12 sessions, but clients may consider additional sessions if they want more support.

Other Types of Therapy

Debate over the best form of treatment for adult ADHD is ongoing, but what resonates with you likely depends on a combination of personal comfort and commitment. Like with medication, you may try a few different approaches before finding one that suits your needs. Remember to address your concerns with your therapist and ask for feedback.

Other types of adult ADHD therapy you may encounter include:

• Strengths-based coaching: A strengths-based approach to therapy concentrates on specific problems, using psychoeducation to reinforce competencies to achieve goals. Coaches use self-disclosure and life experience to support the client.⁷ This type of coaching incorporates many psychotherapy modalities but is not practiced by a licensed professional or covered by insurance.
• Neurofeedback (NF): In neurofeedback, computers target specific brain areas to improve symptoms like inattention and mood balance.⁸ Generally, insurance covers neurofeedback for ADHD, and you can ask your doctor for a referral if interested.

Questions to Ask Before Beginning Therapy for Adult ADHD

An initial consultation with a potential provider can ensure you are on the same page before beginning adult ADHD treatment. Additionally, you can learn more about their expertise and experience with ADHD symptom management.

Here are questions to ask before beginning therapy for adult ADHD:

• I think I might have ADHD — Can you work with me on this to figure out if this is true?
• Have you ever treated ADHD before?
• What treatments are helpful for ADHD?
• How long do you think I should be in therapy?
• Does anyone else need to come to therapy with me?
• How long will it take for me to see the results?
• Can you provide a referral to a physical if you think I need medication?

Lifestyle Changes to Enhance Adult ADHD Treatment

Outside of treatment, you can try alternative treatment like acupuncture for ADHD or various self-help strategies to improve functioning when managing adult ADHD. Therapy and medication can be important for living healthily with ADHD, but lifestyle changes can add another layer of support and positive reinforcement.

Below are tips for coping with ADHD as an adult:

1. Get Regular Exercise

Physical exercise positively affects both physical and mental health. Exercise can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while improving impulse control, executive functioning, and working memory.^9,10 Activity-based exercises like martial arts, group cycling, or dance are healthy ways for adults with ADHD to exert energy and stay focused.

2. Practice Healthy Sleep Hygiene

Healthy sleep hygiene and routines can alleviate symptoms of ADHD and common comorbid disorders like anxiety. For example, consider turning off phones and other distracting electronic devices while trying to sleep. In addition, creating a nighttime routine, setting a comfortable temperature, and finding relaxing activities can help you wind down before bed.

3. Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Performance pressure is a common trigger for adults with ADHD. Consider changing your work-life balance if your career consumes your energy, causes anxiety, or affects your overall performance. Wanting to excel at work is normal, but consider how your performance and productivity may impact your personal life.

4. Consider Your Boundaries

Adults with ADHD commonly report struggles with boundaries, like saying “no” instead of “yes” or vice versa. Remember, boundaries can exist between you and others and within yourself. Recognizing your limits means learning about your triggers and needs.

5. Find Support

You could feel worried about being judged, misunderstood, or blamed by others for your symptoms. As a result, you may feel guilty or ashamed, leaving you apprehensive about seeking treatment for ADHD. However, you are not alone in your struggles. Recognize your need for support as a natural part of being human.

A support group can help you navigate your diagnosis if you are not ready to start therapy. Many adult ADHD groups are available online and on social media. Do some research before joining to decide if the group is a good use of your time.

What Is the Most Effective Treatment for ADHD in Adults?

Determining the best treatment for ADHD is highly individualized because everyone responds to therapy and medication differently. Consult your care team about implementing any approaches, self-help strategies, or supposed “natural remedies” for adult ADHD into your treatment plan. What sounds good on paper might not be the best option for you. You ultimately have the final say, but reviewing your options before making major life decisions is essential.

How to Get Help for ADHD as an Adult

Many therapists specialize in treating ADHD in adults. You can start your search for care in an online therapist directory or by asking your doctor for a referral. Choosing a psychiatrist may also take some time, so explore options to find a professional with whom you feel comfortable. Help for adult ADHD is within reach.

Final Thoughts

Getting a proper diagnosis may lead to a better, healthier experience when living with adult ADHD. Sometimes, putting a name to what you’re experiencing can be validating and helpful in and of itself. Talking to a neurodiverse-affirming therapist and finding the right treatments can make a big difference in how you feel. Most importantly, consider changes in behavior and perspective.