ADHD treatment

ADHD support involved a combination of psychoeducation, medication (prescribed by a physician or nurse practitioner) behavioural interventions, lifestyle management and coordination with work or school for any required accommodations.

Psychoeducation:

  • Clear information about what ADHD is and how it affects attention, executive function, time management, organization, and emotional regulation.

  • Discussion of common strengths and challenges, expected course, and realistic treatment goals.

  • Education about medication options, non-medication strategies, and when to seek support.

Medication

  • Coordination with family physicians or psychiatrists for prescribing and follow-up; consideration of medical history and substance use risk.

  • Regular review for ongoing need, dose adjustments, and planning for life transitions.

Psychological and behavioural interventions

  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) tailored for ADHD: practical skills for organization, time management, planning, problem solving, and addressing procrastination. Also addresses low mood, anxiety, and unhelpful thinking patterns linked to ADHD.

  • Skills-based coaching or structured behavioural interventions: habit formation, environmental modifications, routines, use of reminders and planners, breaking tasks into manageable steps.

  • Mindfulness and emotion-regulation strategies can help with impulsivity and stress tolerance, often alongside CBT.

Psycho-social supports and accommodations

  • Workplace or school accommodations: flexible deadlines, quiet workspaces, assistive technologies, written instructions, extended test time, modified workload.

Lifestyle and self-care

  • Sleep hygiene, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and management of substance use can reduce symptom burden and improve overall functioning.

  • Structuring environment to reduce distractions (decluttering, limiting multitasking, scheduled breaks).

Monitoring and follow-up

  • Regular measurement of symptoms and functioning to track response and side effects of any treatment.

  • Collaborative care planning, adjusting approaches across medication, therapy, and accommodations as needed.

  • Planning for transitions (school, work changes, pregnancy) and long-term management.