How Is Adult ADHD Treated?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) doesn’t just affect kids. An estimated 15.5 million adults in the United States live with it, yet many are undiagnosed. 

Adults with ADHD experience mild-to-debilitating challenges, such as trouble focusing, impulsivity, and difficulties with time management. Fortunately, treatments can help. 

Dr. Oluranti Adepoju at Revive Holistic Psychiatry in Weymouth, Massachusetts, specializes in treating ADHD in children and adults, combining therapies that address the condition’s complexities. Here, she explains adult ADHD, how it differs from the childhood version, and what effective treatment looks like.

What’s the difference between adult and pediatric ADHD?

While ADHD starts in childhood, its manifestations often shift as people age.

Childhood ADHD often appears as hyperactivity and impulsivity. Parents and teachers frequently recognize these behaviors when children struggle to sit still, follow instructions, or manage their energy levels in structured environments like classrooms.

Adult ADHD tends to feature more subtle symptoms. The hyperactivity component often manifests as restlessness or difficulty relaxing, while inattentiveness may show up as difficulty managing work deadlines, organizing daily routines, or keeping track of responsibilities.

Unlike children, many adults don’t exhibit overt hyperactive behavior. Instead, they face challenges like job performance issues, strained relationships, and difficulties meeting adult responsibilities, such as managing finances or maintaining stable employment.

Despite the differences in presentation, the core symptoms — impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention — align across age groups.

How is adult ADHD diagnosed?

Diagnosing ADHD in adults is tricky because symptoms must have been present since childhood (before age 12). However, a trained and experienced psychiatrist like Dr. Adepoju can determine whether ADHD is present by performing a comprehensive evaluation that includes:

• Detailed medical history
• Feedback from past behavior records, family members, or partners
• Questionnaires assessing focus, impulsiveness, and organization
• Testing for related conditions, such as anxiety or depression, which commonly co-occur

When Dr. Adepoju evaluates your symptoms, she considers the complex landscape of your unique life experiences.

Treatment options for adult ADHD

Effective ADHD treatment focuses on symptom management and skill-building. There’s no single “cure;” Dr. Adepoju combines approaches to give you the best possible results.

1. Medication

Medications are often the first line of treatment for ADHD. There are two primary types:

Stimulants 

Medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and amphetamines (Adderall®) can improve focus and control impulsive behaviors. They regulate your brain’s dopamine levels, helping with attention and executive functioning.

Nonstimulants 

Atomoxetine (Strattera®) is an FDA-approved nonstimulant option. It’s ideal for those who don’t tolerate stimulants well or who have a history of substance misuse. This medication takes longer to take effect but offers steady symptom control.

2. Therapy

Behavioral and cognitive therapies are essential complements to medication because they help you develop coping strategies that last.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) 

CBT focuses on identifying negative thoughts or “cognitive distortions” while teaching you techniques to stay organized and overcome procrastination.

Meta-cognitive therapy 

Meta-cognitive therapy helps you understand and reframe your thinking styles — for instance, improving planning and time management.

3. Lifestyle changes

Small lifestyle shifts can improve your focus and productivity.

Regular exercise 

Physical activity increases dopamine and norepinephrine — key neurotransmitters for focus and attention.

Healthy sleep habits 

ADHD often affects sleep, so creating a consistent bedtime routine and reducing screen time before bed can alleviate sleep challenges.

Mindfulness practices 

Yoga and meditation help you relax and manage impulsive tendencies.

4. Assistive tools and accommodations

For some adults, practical tools and workplace accommodations make daily tasks more manageable:

• Smartphone apps for reminders, to-do lists, or time tracking
• Noise-canceling headphones for better focus in noisy environments
• Flexible schedules or structured task plans (you may qualify for these under the ADA)

5. Addressing co-occurring conditions

ADHD rarely occurs in isolation. Many adults with ADHD also have coexisting conditions like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders. Our comprehensive treatment addresses these overlapping challenges.

6. Ongoing monitoring 

We keep an eye on your progress. Dr. Adepoju encourages regular check-ins every 3-6 months to evaluate medication effectiveness, adjust doses, and review how therapy is progressing. 

Don’t ignore signs of adult ADHD — help is available. Call Revive Holistic Psychiatry, request an in-person appointment online, or schedule a telehealth visit.