Although ADHD has no cure, it is highly manageable with the right support, and individuals diagnosed with ADHD can go on to live highly fulfilling lives.

In this context, a holistic approach combines therapy, lifestyle changes, and (when necessary) medication prescription, in order to address individual needs.

1. Behavioural Therapy

Behavioural therapy helps individuals to modify habits and develop coping strategies. Popular methods include:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT); in the context of therapy for ADHD, CBT focuses on helping the individual with ADHD to recognise thought patterns associated with impulsivity and anxiety, in addition to negative thought patterns which the individual may experience, thereby supporting organic behavioural change.

• Parent training programs help equip parents with techniques in order to manage behaviour, in addition to creating structured routines at home.

2. Medication for ADHD

Medications can play a supportive role in ADHD management, often enhancing the individual’s focus and impulse control compared to not taking the medication(s), and thereby improving the individual’s quality of life.

Stimulants are the pharmacotherapy most commonly prescribed for the management of ADHD; for example, methylphenidate (Ritalin, or Concerta), dexamphetamine (Adderall; Dexedrine), and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse; Vyvanse) (Faraone and Biederman, 2005).

Non-stimulant medications include the norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor atomoxetine (Strattera) and the alpha-2 agonist guanfacine (Intuniv); non-stimulant medications are often used in individuals with ADHD where stimulant treatment is ineffective, has led to a history of stimulant abuse, or there are significant side effects (NICE, 2018).

Although medication aids in regulating attention and affect/executive functioning, it is generally more effective when combined with therapeutic approaches which are not pharmacotheraputic in nature, such as therapy, behavioural coaching, and lifestyle adjustments/changes, forming a holistic ADHD management plan that best accommodates the individual strengths and weaknesses of each person with ADHD (Barkley, 2015).

Non-stimulant medications, such as the norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor atomoxetine (Strattera) and the alpha-2 agonist guanfacine (Intuniv), approved for pharmacological treatment of ADHD, are often prescribed to individuals with ADHD who do not respond well to classical stimulants (i.e. a history of stimulant abuse, or side effects experienced from the stimulant(s) themselves otherwise), or do not respond strongly enough to stimulants alone (in which case they are co-prescribed alongside the stimulants as adjunctive medications).

ADHD medications, despite improving focus and emotional regulation/executive functioning in and of themselves, are most effective when combined with non-pharmacotherapeutic modalities such as therapy, behavioural coaching, and lifestyle adjustments, ensuring a balanced treatment plan for the individual with ADHD that takes into account their unique strengths and weaknesses.

3. Lifestyle Changes and Natural Approaches

• Changes to diet and nutrition can support some individuals with ADHD to manage, or reduce, their symptoms of ADHD; for example, reducing sugar and processed foods may help some individuals with ADHD to manage symptoms.
• Exercise, in addition to mindfulness practice, for example activities such as yoga, meditation, and regular physical activity can improve focus and help reduce stress.
• Establishing consistent sleep routines as part of sleep hygiene, alongside limiting blue light exposure in a given time window before sleep, can help to support emotional regulation and mental clarity.

Practical Tips for Managing ADHD:

1. Breaking tasks into smaller steps can help to prevent overwhelm, by allowing the individual to focus on one task at a time.
2. Using organisational tools, such as apps, planners, and reminders can help individuals with ADHD to manage their time better.
3. Creating consistent routines can help individuals with ADHD to maintain structured schedules for meals, work, and sleep.
4. Individuals with ADHD can build a support network, by joining ADHD support groups and/or seeking help from coaches and therapists.
5. Individuals with ADHD can practice self-care, via incorporating stress-relief activities such as journaling, nature walks, or yoga.

Parenting a Child with ADHD:

Parenting a child with ADHD requires patience with the child’s behaviour, which may not always meet parental or societal expectations, alongside consistency.

Tips can include setting clear expectations, in addition to the use of visual schedules and checklists to reinforce routines, positive reinforcement to reward good behaviour with praise and/or incentives, and collaboration with educators such as school staff, developing individualised support plans (IEPs) to promote academic and social success in the child’s school life.

Thriving with ADHD

ADHD is often misunderstood as a limitation—it’s a unique way of thinking and processing the world. With early diagnosis, therapy, medication (where appropriate and recommended by qualified mental health professionals) and lifestyle strategies, individuals with ADHD can harness their strengths and lead fulfilling lives.

Whether you’re exploring natural approaches, considering medication, or looking for behavioral therapy, the key lies in finding a personalised ADHD treatment plan that fits your needs.