Adult ADHD Treatment
Living with ADHD as an adult can feel frustrating and overwhelming, but help is available. Drift Behavioral Health provides expert, personalized care to help you manage symptoms and improve focus, routines, and self-confidence.
Late Diagnosis and Untreated ADHD in Adults
Many adults are only diagnosed with ADHD later in life. As children, they might have masked their symptoms or been labeled as daydreamers, underachievers, or simply disorganized. Without school structures or parental oversight, the challenges of adult ADHD often become more noticeable. In fact, it’s estimated that up to 5% of US adults have this condition, but only 20% of them have been formally diagnosed and treated.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in girls are often overlooked. This likely happens as symptoms may appear less disruptive than those in boys. Girls and women are more likely to show inattentive signs, such as daydreaming, internal restlessness, or perfectionism. These can be mistaken for personality traits rather than signs of ADHD. As a result, many women aren’t diagnosed until adulthood, sometimes after years of misdiagnosis or self-doubt.
It’s common for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder to occur alongside other mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, or PTSD. These overlapping symptoms can make it harder to recognize ADHD, delaying diagnosis and treatment. At Drift, we offer dual diagnosis care to address all underlying concerns together.
ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, focus, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity. You may also hear the term “ADD,” which is now considered outdated and has been reclassified under the broader ADHD diagnosis.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults can show up differently than in children. While hyperactivity may lessen with age, challenges with attention, motivation, and memory often continue or worsen. These are some common symptoms present in adults:
- Difficulty staying focused
- Forgetfulness and disorganization
- Procrastination or trouble finishing tasks
- Impulsivity in speech, actions, or spending
- Mood swings and emotional reactivity
- Low frustration tolerance
- Difficulty following conversations or instructions
Many adults go undiagnosed because they adapted their lives around their symptoms or masked them. Some were misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression. For others, struggles started to stand out once they began managing their own time, jobs, or responsibilities without external structure.
Types of ADHD
There are three main types of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Your diagnosis will depend on the pattern of symptoms you experience.
This type involves physical restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty sitting still or waiting.
This type centers on forgetfulness, lack of focus, and disorganization without hyperactivity.
This is the most common type and includes symptoms from both the hyperactive and inattentive categories.
Living With ADHD in Adulthood
Adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder often face daily struggles with time management, task completion, memory, and emotional regulation. They may deal with burnout, perfectionism, difficulty holding a job down, or low self-esteem. Some turn to substances to cope. The good news is that with the right support, these patterns can shift. Treatment offers hope, structure, and tools to move forward with more confidence.
Adult ADHD Treatment and Management Strategies
Treatment for adults includes a combination of evaluation, therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes. At Drift, we also offer convenient telehealth options so you can get support from anywhere.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
The process begins with an assessment that looks at your symptoms, medical history, and daily challenges. Providers may use clinical interviews and screening tools. If you’re looking for an adult ADHD test online, Drift offers secure virtual evaluations.
Counseling and Therapy
Therapy can help you build practical strategies and emotional tools for managing this condition. At Drift, we often use cognitive-behavioral therapy for ADHD. This includes CBT exercises that focus on time management, self-monitoring, and emotional regulation.
ADHD Medications
Medications for adults may include stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin, or non-stimulants like atomoxetine. These medications can improve focus and reduce impulsivity. Your provider will work with you to find the best fit and offer medication management throughout your treatment.
Holistic Treatments
In addition to therapy and medication, we also use holistic approaches. Things like meditation, grounding techniques, stress management skills, and exercise can also support focus and emotional balance. These can be part of your treatment plan depending on your goals.
Get Expert ADHD Treatment at Drift Behavioral Health
At Drift, we understand how attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can affect every part of your life. We offer personalized adult ADHD treatment, both in person and online. Our programs include:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Full-day treatment and support 5–6 days a week
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Flexible therapy and support 3–5 days a week
- Virtual Mental Health Treatment: Online treatment and medication management from the comfort of home
If you’re ready to take the next step, connect with us today. We’ll help you build a plan that supports better focus, stronger routines, and long-term success.
FAQs
How do I know if I have ADHD?
Start by noticing if you have symptoms like forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, or impulsivity. An assessment can help provide clarity.
Can you get ADHD treatment without medication?
Yes, therapy and lifestyle strategies are often effective and can be used alone or alongside medication.
Is ADHD autism?
No, they are different conditions, but they can share some traits and may co-occur in some people.
Do you offer ADHD telehealth treatment?
Yes, Drift offers online treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. This includes therapy and medication through secure Zoom sessions.
Is ADHD genetic?
Yes, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can run in families. However, having a genetic link doesn’t guarantee a diagnosis.
What is ADHD burnout?
Burnout happens when you constantly push through symptoms without proper support. This leads to exhaustion and overwhelm.
How does Adderall help ADHD?
Adderall is a stimulant. It increases certain brain chemicals to help improve focus, attention, and impulse control.
Can I get ADHD meds online?
Yes. With a proper evaluation and ongoing support, medications for adults can be prescribed and managed online at Drift.
