Treatment Options for ADHD

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental health disorder that is present and usually first diagnosed in childhood, then continues into adulthood. Symptoms of this disorder include hyperactivity, compulsiveness or unfocused behavior. Although there is no cure for ADHD, symptoms can be managed and significantly improved with the right diagnosis and treatment plan.

The first step in receiving treatment for ADHD is to see a medical professional for an evaluation.

Evaluation and Diagnosis

There is no test that can be taken to determine if someone has ADHD, so patients must undergo a clinical evaluation to be diagnosed. The evaluation may be given and diagnosis provided by a behavioral health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, or a primary care provider, such as a family physician or pediatrician.

The evaluation is often extensive and may include a discussion of family history, symptoms, and their impact on daily living.

“When diagnosing ADHD, it’s important to rule out other causes with an extensive evaluation,” shares Ryan Travis, MD, with ProMedica Physicians Behavioral Health – Fremont. ADHD is not the sole cause of problems with a lack of attentiveness or focus. Other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, may also cause these issues. 

Treatment Options

Treatment options for ADHD include medication and/or talk therapy. “Like all mental health disorders, ADHD is best treated with a combination of both medication and therapy,” Dr. Travis shares.

Medication

There are three commonly used types of medications to treat ADHD: stimulants, norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha receptor agonists. They each work in a different way to help manage the symptoms of ADHD.

Stimulants (such as Adderall or Ritalin) are the most common type of medication used to treat ADHD. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine to help improve focus, concentration and alertness.

“Prescriptions are given on a case-by-case basis based on what the provider thinks will work best for the patient,” Dr. Travis shares. The provider may recommend a non-stimulant drug if they think another drug would be a better fit for the patient, or if the patient has heart problems, other mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression, or past issues with addiction.

Talk Therapy

Traditional talk therapy can also be beneficial for patients with ADHD. The behavioral health professional would focus on teaching the patient organizational skills to help streamline and organize their lives at home and at work.

“Being organized can be extremely beneficial to helping individuals with ADHD stay on task,” Dr. Travis explains. “Practicing mindfulness exercises can also be helpful for staying in the moment and focusing on the task at hand.”

With the correct diagnosis and treatment plan, ADHD can be managed, and the necessary focus and attentiveness can be attained for those struggling. 

“It’s important that anyone seeking a mental health disorder diagnosis, whether it is for ADHD or another condition, be evaluated by a medical professional. Symptoms often overlap, so a thorough evaluation is necessary to be able to accurately diagnose and treat a condition,” Dr. Travis shares.

If you or your child are exhibiting signs of ADHD, talk to your primary care provider. They will be able to point you in the right direction for what’s next.