ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) affects 1 in 20 Australians, making it one of the most common developmental disorders in the country. While many people associate ADHD with being easily distracted, impulsive, or difficulty concentrating, it’s a lot more complex than that.
ADHD affects the brain’s executive functioning, which is responsible for skills such as planning, organisation, emotional regulation, attention, and self-control. There are things many of us take for granted, but for someone living with ADHD, everyday tasks often feel far more challenging than they appear.
The good news is that there are a range of effective management and treatment options. The two most common approaches are psychological support, and medication. Understanding how each works can help you determine which option might be right for you.
ADHD Assessments
The first step is obtaining a comprehensive ADHD assessment by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist. An ADHD assessment usually includes a detailed review of your personal history, your childhood development, educational experiences, medical history, and symptoms. Standardised questions and cognitive tests are also used to evaluate your attention span and concentration.
The goal is to not only determine whether you have ADHD but also learn how it is impacting your daily life. This information is used to develop an effective treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Psychology
Most psychologists use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help individuals develop strategies for navigating daily challenges. Therapy can help improve time management, problem solving, reduce distraction, and increase attention span. Rather than focusing on “fixing” ADHD, psychological support aims to help you build skills that allow you to function effectively and confidently in everyday life.
Medication
It may seem surprising, but stimulants are frequently prescribed for ADHD. In people with ADHD stimulants don’t create additional hyperactivity, instead they work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain. These chemicals play an important role in attention, motivation, focus, and impulse control. This helps you filter distractions, maintain concentration, and regulate impulsive behaviours.
Many people report feeling calmer, more focused, and better able to complete tasks once the right medication and dosage have been found. It’s important to remember that medication is not a cure for ADHD. It eases the symptoms and makes them easier to manage.
Which choice is best?
One of the most common questions people ask is whether they should choose therapy or medication. The answer is that there is no single approach that works for everyone. You need to work with a professional to find what works best for you.
Some people can successfully manage their ADHD through psychological support alone, while others find medication provides major improvements in their day to day lives. Often the best results are achieved by a combination of both. Medication can help improve focus and attention while therapy provides practical strategies and coping skills that support long-term success.
The most important thing is finding an approach that suits your individual needs. Speaking with your GP, psychologist, or psychiatrist can help you determine the best treatment plan for you.
Support
If you believe ADHD may be impacting your life, seeking professional support can be an important first step.
At Adelaide Psychological Services, our team includes experienced psychologists, a psychiatrist, and a range of support services to help individuals better understand and manage ADHD. Whether you’re seeking an assessment, ongoing therapy, or guidance on treatment options, we’re here to help.
Browse our team profiles to find the clinician who best suits your needs or contact us on (08) 8295 4150 or info@psychadelaide.com.au and we’ll help point you in the right direction.
