5 Effective Treatments for Adult ADHD

It’s a myth that only kids develop attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — adults get it, too, to the tune of 15.5 million in the US alone. If you’re one of them, here are five ways to ease your symptoms and cope with your condition.

You can’t stay focused, follow instructions, or listen well. You lose things, forget details, and make careless mistakes. You have adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and it’s starting to affect your job and relationships.

It’s not just a kid thing, and you’re not alone — 15.5 million adult Americans deal with ADHD and are searching for ways to reduce, cope with, or stop its effects.

We understand and can help.

Dr. Oluranti Adepoju and our dedicated Revive Holistic Psychiatry team in Weymouth, Massachusetts, offer evidence-based treatments to help you regain control over your life. Here are five effective ways to address the life-disrupting symptoms of adult ADHD.

1. Medication

Although medication won’t cure your ADHD, it can be a game-changer when it comes to relieving symptoms of adult ADHD.

Dr. Adepoju may recommend stimulants like Adderall® and Ritalin® to increase your attention and decrease your impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs boost dopamine levels — an essential neurotransmitter in your brain.

However, not everyone responds well to stimulants, which is where nonstimulant medications like Strattera® come in. These alternatives still improve focus and control, but without the jittery side effects some people experience with stimulants.

We offer Genesight® testing to determine how you’ll react to medications before we prescribe them.

Our medication management services keep you organized and on track with your treatment. If you take medications for other conditions, we help you coordinate them to avoid missed doses, interactions, and side effects.

2. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Dr. Adepoju combines medication with talk therapy to help you develop practical skills to manage ADHD symptoms. Specifically, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) enables you to spot negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. These skills teach you to make better decisions and control your emotions.

Studies show that people who incorporate CBT into their treatment often experience reduced symptoms and better cognitive functioning. We can help you create strategies for procrastination, organizational challenges, forgetfulness, and more.

3. Exercise and sleep

Regular physical activity boosts endorphins, which enhance concentration and reduce stress — both critical for managing ADHD. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Sleep deprivation can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. Unfortunately, sticking to a bedtime schedule and quieting your mind so you can fall asleep is tricky when you have ADHD. Here’s a look at the link between ADHD and sleep issues:

25% of people with ADHD have sleep apnea
44% of people with ADHD have restless leg syndrome
67% of people with ADHD have trouble falling and staying asleep

We can help you establish a consistent bedtime routine and get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Once you start sleeping better, you’ll likely notice a marked improvement in your energy, mood, and focus.

4. Supplements

Dr. Adepoju may recommend nutritional supplements to support brain function and ease your ADHD symptoms.

For example, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, are known for their brain health benefits and have been linked to improved attention and behavior.

Many people with ADHD have low levels of zinc, magnesium, and iron, so supplementing with these minerals can also help.

Supplements, though, aren’t a substitute for a balanced diet or other treatments.

5. Telehealth psychiatry

Telehealth psychiatry is revolutionizing how adults with ADHD access care.

Revive Holistic Psychiatry offers online consultations and digital therapy sessions, so you can receive Dr. Adepoju’s expert advice and support without leaving your home.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, telehealth has significantly increased accessibility and convenience for many patients, offering flexibility and continuity of care that traditional appointments can’t match.

Massachusetts state law prohibits us from prescribing stimulants for ADHD without an in-person assessment, but we can hold CBT sessions with you, monitor your progress, adjust medications, help you make lifestyle changes, and partner with you as you work toward better health and wellness.

To schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment, call Revive Holistic Psychiatry, or request an appointment online.