Understanding ADHD Treatment

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong condition that can affect a person’s focus, impulse control, and daily functioning. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. ADHD treatment often involves a combination of medication, behavioral therapies, lifestyle adjustments, and support systems tailored to an individual’s needs.

Behavioral Therapy and Psychosocial Interventions

As a psychologist and therapist, I’m biased toward therapy—but I’m not the only one! The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends behavioral therapy as the first line of treatment for preschoolers with ADHD. For school-aged children and teenagers, they recommend a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.

Check out my blog post on ADHD statistics to see the gap between this recommendation and the treatment children and adolescents typically receive.

For many individuals, behavioral therapy is an important part of treatment. Strategies include:

• Parent Management Training (PMT): Helps parents learn techniques to support positive behavior and manage ADHD-related challenges.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured, goal-oriented form of talk therapy that helps individuals develop coping skills for impulse control and emotional regulation.

• School-Based Interventions: Many children with ADHD benefit from Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans that provide accommodations such as extra time on tests, movement breaks, or classroom seating adjustments.

Medication for ADHD

Medication is one of the most common treatments for ADHD, helping individuals regulate attention, behavior, and impulse control. There are two main types:

• Stimulant Medications:These are the most widely prescribed ADHD medications. Stimulants work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, improving focus and self-regulation.

• Non-Stimulant Medications: Some individuals may not tolerate stimulants well, or they may have conditions that make stimulants less suitable. Non-stimulant options provide alternative ways medically to manage symptoms.

While medication can be highly effective, it’s important to work with a doctor to monitor effects and adjust dosage as needed. For children, talking to their pediatrician or primary care provider is often a good first step in treating ADHD with medication. In many cases, the pediatrician or primary care provider is the one who prescribes ADHD medication. In other cases, a psychiatrist is an important member of the care team and handles the prescription. This depends on a number of factors including; family preference, provider preference, and the unique characteristics of your child and their symptoms. 

Lifestyle Approaches

While medication and therapy are key components of ADHD treatment, lifestyle changes can also support symptom management:

• Regular Exercise: Physical activity has been shown to help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus by boosting dopamine and serotonin levels.

• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can help maintain stable energy and focus levels throughout the day.

• Consistent Sleep Routine: Many people with ADHD struggle with sleep disturbances, so maintaining a bedtime routine and minimizing screen time before bed can improve rest and daytime focus.

• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help individuals with ADHD develop better emotional regulation and self-awareness. Want ideas for a mindfulness practice see this blog post for tips. 

Support Systems and Coaching

Having a strong support system is essential for managing ADHD effectively:

• ADHD Coaching: Professional coaches help individuals develop strategies for time management, organization, and goal-setting. Note: Coaching is not a well regulated field. I recommend looking for a coach who is licensed as a mental health professional and has additional training and certification in coaching. If the coach isn’t a licensed mental health professional I recommend checking if they are certified as a coach and if their certification came from a reputable institution. 

• Support Groups: Connecting with others who have ADHD can provide valuable encouragement and shared coping strategies. There are support groups for parents/caregivers for children diagnosed with ADHD. 

• Family and Peer Support: Educating family members, teachers, and peers about ADHD fosters understanding and improves communication.

Finding the Right Treatment Approach

Because ADHD presents differently in each individual, treatment should be personalized. Some children respond well to lifestyle approaches and school- or home-based interventions. Others benefit more from therapy and/or medication. Consulting with a healthcare or mental health professional can help determine the best treatment plan.

Final Thoughts

Because ADHD presents differently in each individual, treatment should be personalized. Some children respond well to lifestyle approaches and school- or home-based interventions. Others benefit more from therapy and/or medication. Consulting with a healthcare or mental health professional can help determine the best treatment plan.

Ready for an evaluation or therapy?

Feel free to call me at (216) 245-2421 for a free 15-minute phone consultation. I’d be happy to hear what’s going on, and if I’m not the best fit, I’m glad to point you in the right direction.

Curious about how I diagnose and treat ADHD?
Click here for information about ADHD evaluations and treatment, or check out my blog post about ADHD evaluations.