Treatment of ADHD

In the treatment of ADHD, you start with psychoeducation, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or skills training may be implemented to target specific aspects or symptoms. The following components may be included in the treatment of ADHD:

1. 1. Reducing stimulation
      Many ADHD symptoms result from an excess of external stimuli and subsequent overstimulation. In this component, you learn to recognize overstimulation based on thoughts, emotions, physical reactions, behaviors, and consequences. You then practice consciously managing these stimuli by moderating, managing, or avoiding them.
   2. Negative thoughts and skill training
      Procrastination can arise from unhelpful thoughts about oneself and unrealistic estimations of time and tasks. In this component, you learn to make more realistic estimations, and then practice alternative behaviors or new skills.
   3. Managing impulsivity
      Impulsive behaviour can be a result of overstimulation. In the impulsivity component, you work on recognizing impulsivity, finding practical solutions, and developing recovery skills (such as making amends with others).
   4. Improving frustration tolerance
      Having ADHD can lead to stronger reactions to setbacks due to unhelpful thoughts about oneself and the world. In this component, you develop skills to better cope with frustrations.
   5. Self-image
      Due to attention deficits, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity, you may make more mistakes or feel a sense of failure. This can lead to a low self-image. This component focuses on improving your self-image.

Medication

Medication can be an adjunct to treatment if it is not fully effective. It can be helpful when symptoms such as attention deficits, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are significantly present. Commonly prescribed medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Focalin, Methylin, Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, DextroStat). The effects of medication are temporary: skipping or stopping medication will result in a return of ADHD symptoms.

Post-treatment

Aftercare

During treatment, you learn to manage your symptoms differently. However, ADHD is typically a chronic condition. Therefore, it is important to continue applying the skills learned after treatment.

Peer support

Peer support can be beneficial during and after treatment. Here, you can share your story with others who have similar experiences, receive support, advice, and insight into how others manage the challenges of ADHD. For example:

1. The Impuls & Woortblind Association, for and by people with ADHD, ADD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia. They share knowledge from experience, and you can reach out to them to ask any type of question.
2. ADHD cafés, which take place monthly in various cities and also have online meetings every week. Organized by the Impuls & Woortblind Association.

Source

• Vink, S. (2021). Cognitieve gedragstherapie bij volwassenen met ADHD. Handleiding voor therapeuten. BSL.