ADHD treatment options for adults and children
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At Priory, we provide specialist ADHD support, combining evidence-based approaches with expert guidance to help you move forward.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder that can affect both children and adults. The condition is typically characterised by challenges with concentration, heightened levels of energy and activity (hyperactivity) and a tendency to act quickly or impulsively.
Although ADHD is a lifelong condition, many people go on to live fulfilling lives after diagnosis. Some people manage without support, while others find that treatment can help them cope more easily day to day. Tailored strategies can help enhance many people’s confidence, self-esteem and overall wellbeing.
For most, a mix of therapy, prescribed medication and practical lifestyle strategies can help adults and children alike when managing their condition.
Treatment recommendations by age
ADHD treatment will differ for various age groups.
Under 6 years
For younger children, behavioural interventions are the first line of treatment. Medication is not an option at this age, as there is limited evidence for its use in young children, with a higher risk of side effects.
6–17 years
For children and teenagers, a combination of medication and behavioural therapy is often recommended, particularly for moderate to severe ADHD. At Priory, we can support families with therapy, parenting programmes, and medication where appropriate.
18 years and over
Adults can usually be prescribed medication or referred for therapy, or both, in the first instance. An ADHD assessment should establish the nature and severity of symptoms for each person to inform the most appropriate treatment plan for them.
At Priory, we provide tailored treatment for adults that considers the whole person, including prescribing services where needed.
How long does ADHD treatment last?
ADHD is a long-term condition, but treatment can help people manage symptoms effectively. It can help to improve people’s wellbeing so that they feel capable of putting lasting positive changes into place. Some may need ongoing support, while others find that the skills they learn in therapy or coaching help them cope more independently over time.
Therapies for ADHD
How therapy supports ADHD
Therapy can play an important role in managing ADHD by helping with skills such as self-regulation, emotional processing, navigating relationships and building self-esteem. It provides both practical strategies and compassionate support for personal challenges, giving people the tools they need to improve their wellbeing.
Therapy can also help adults and young people gain a deeper understanding of their diagnosis, boosting their confidence and reducing feelings of frustration or low self-worth that sometimes come with ADHD.
Therapy brings longer-term benefits by supporting lasting behavioural and emotional changes. It’s often effective when used with medication and positive lifestyle adjustments.
Types of therapy for ADHD
The most effective types of therapy for ADHD include:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – this helps to manage unhelpful thoughts and develop structured daily routines, through practical strategies. It can support with symptoms such as procrastination, impulsivity, or low self-esteem
- Psychoeducation – this offers a clear understanding of how ADHD affects thinking, behaviour, and emotions. It equips people with coping strategies to manage symptoms and make informed treatment decisions
- ADHD coaching or skills-based therapy – this focuses on strengthening executive functioning skills, including planning, organisation, focus and time management. Sessions can be tailored to help people achieve specific goals
- Parent training programmes – these programmes are designed to support parents in managing their child’s ADHD. The sessions teach consistent strategies, structure and positive reinforcement. They place emphasis on reducing everyday stress for the whole family
- Family therapy – this helps families address household challenges, improve communication, and gain more knowledge and understanding about ADHD. It encourages collaboration, for a supportive home environment.
Therapy for children with ADHD
For children with ADHD, behavioural therapy and parent training are often recommended as first-line approaches.
Parent training helps caregivers give consistent structure to children, with education around encouragement strategies and setting clear expectations at home. Techniques may include using reward charts, setting small achievable goals, practising emotional awareness, and modelling calm, clear communication.
Therapy for adults with ADHD
For adults with ADHD, therapy can provide actionable techniques and emotional support to manage recurring challenges each person faces. It helps address limiting beliefs and negative thought patterns, build routines, and help people feel more capable of moving forward.
Therapy can be highly effective even without medication, helping adults improve their way of living, avoid burnout and reach their potential.
Family support for children with ADHD
At Priory, we offer a comprehensive six-session programme designed to support parents of children aged 5 to 14, who have been diagnosed with ADHD or show related traits. We provide evidence-based strategies to enhance understanding of ADHD, improve communication, and manage common challenges such as emotional outbursts, procrastination and difficulty with routines.
Sessions include topics like distress tolerance, establishing effective routines, and de-escalating challenging behaviours.
Read more about the programme here or email [email protected] to discuss attendance.
ADHD medication
How ADHD medication works
Medication is often used to reduce the most common and challenging ADHD symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Rather than curing ADHD, medication helps to improve daily functioning.
It’s often most effective when it’s used as part of a wider approach, considering the whole person and incorporating therapy and lifestyle changes.
Medication isn’t always needed, however, and recommendations should always be evidence-based and tailored to you.
Types of ADHD medication
Stimulant medications
Stimulants are the most common type of medication for ADHD. They include options like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, which work by increasing dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain. This can make it easier to focus, stay organised and manage impulsive or restless feelings.
They usually start working quite quickly, which means many people notice benefits straight away in their daily life.
Like all medicines, they can have side effects – the most common being changes in appetite, sleep difficulties, headaches, mood shifts or nausea.
Non-stimulant medications
Non-stimulant medication may be offered if stimulant options aren’t the right fit. One of the most common is atomoxetine, a type of selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). This can take a little longer to start working than stimulants, but often provides longer-lasting benefits, such as better focus and concentration, with less chance of causing sleep problems. Some people may feel more tired on these medications, but this varies.
In some cases, certain antidepressants like bupropion may also be prescribed. These can support mood and attention by boosting brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are sometimes lower in people with ADHD.
ADHD medication for children
National guidance, from organisations such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the NHS, advises that ADHD medication is not recommended for children below the age of six. Unless a child’s symptoms are quite severe, behavioural interventions are usually pursued first.
In the case that medication is prescribed to children, their progress will be carefully monitored at every step. Parents or caregivers are always encouraged to stay closely involved, ensuring that everyone is happy and the child’s best interests are prioritised.
Schools are also recommended to play a central role in observing children’s progress.
ADHD medication for adults
Adults may be prescribed medication when their ADHD symptoms are significantly affecting their work, relationships or daily life. Medication can be highly effective in reducing symptoms such as inattention, impulsivity and restlessness. It can help to make everyday life feel more manageable. Medication should always be tailored to each person and combined with therapy and lifestyle strategies.
Priory psychiatrists will carry out a thorough assessment of every person before prescribing ADHD medication. Our clinical team will then conduct ongoing reviews to monitor your progress and side effects, ensuring that you’re happy with the way things are going. If anything doesn’t feel right, you’ll be able to discuss alternative options and receive expert support in finding the best treatment for you.
Lifestyle changes for managing ADHD
These lifestyle strategies can complement other treatments, helping to reduce overwhelm, improve focus and support overall wellbeing.
Lifestyle strategies for children with ADHD
To help children with ADHD manage symptoms, you can try out various positive lifestyle adjustments, which can be easily incorporated into their lives.
Making changes from the inside out can make a big difference in children’s concentration levels and confidence. It can also help them feel more comfortable with safely expressing themselves.
Lifestyle strategies for adults with ADHD
Similarly, adults with ADHD can also benefit from adapting their habits in daily life:
- Regular exercise is essential to help combat mental and physical fatigue, overwhelm and racing thoughts
- Healthy sleep and rest patterns are also crucial for mental health
- Breathing techniques can also be powerful for improving the mind-body connection, feeling calmer and more present in daily life
