Millions of Americans have ADHD, with the disorder impacting 11% of children and over 3% of adults. Many more go undiagnosed - 75% of adults with ADHD don’t even realize they have it.
ADHD is a brain condition that can be challenging to manage, and can significantly interfere with day-to-day life. But it can be treated, and getting professional support can make a huge difference.
The ability to receive treatment for ADHD online makes getting the support you need even easier. You can schedule a virtual appointment with a therapist or psychiatrist, and get started right away.
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder that can interfere with a person’s everyday functioning. It impacts the parts of the brain responsible for planning, concentrating, and completing tasks.
Approximately 10 million adults have ADHD, and many of them find that their condition causes challenging disruptions in their lives. They tend to struggle with work performance, relationships, completing daily tasks, and chronic feelings of guilt or blame.
People with ADHD might have difficulty focusing on a singular task, staying organized, carrying out realistic plans, or sitting still. They might act impulsively, or be fidgety or interruptive. The specific symptoms can vary; and there are several subtypes of ADHD that all present slightly differently.
Symptoms of ADHD
Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose ADHD; and they will classify the disorder into one of three types, depending on the symptoms the individual is presenting.
Inattentive type (ADHD-I)
Predominantly inattentive ADHD is the most common subtype among females and adults. Children with this diagnosis are often overlooked, because they don’t demonstrate the stereotypical hyperactive behavior that is associated with ADHD. It is frequently diagnosed later in life, and is the subtype that is most likely to have coexisting depression or anxiety. Inattentive ADHD impacts a person’s processing speed; and is characterized by difficulty focusing, listening, and paying attention to details.
Someone with inattentive ADHD:
- Fails to pay attention to detail or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or at work
- Has trouble holding attention on activities or tasks
- Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
- Does not follow through on instructions; gets sidetracked or loses focus and fails to complete schoolwork, chores, or work responsibilities
- Sometimes has trouble organizing tasks and activities
- Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require mental focus for a long period of time
- Often loses items key to completing important tasks (school supplies, wallet, paperworks, keys, phone, glasses)
- Is often easily distracted
- Can be forgetful in daily activities
Hyperactive type (ADHD-H)
People with hyperactive ADHD are considered “always on the go” and might have trouble keeping still. It is often diagnosed in early childhood, and is more common among males. People with this subtype often are restless and may talk excessively or interrupt others. It is also characterized by impulsivity, or acting without thinking of the potential consequences.
Someone with hyperactive ADHD:
- Fidgets with hands, taps feet, or squirms in seat
- Often leaves their seat in situations where they should remain seated
- Often runs around in inappropriate settings (children); or feel restless (adolescents/adults)
- Is sometimes unable to engage in leisure activities quietly
- Talks excessively
- Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
- Sometimes has trouble waiting their turn
- Often interrupts others or intrudes into conversations
Combined inattentive/hyperactive type (ADHD-C)
An individual may be considered to have a “combined presentation” if enough criteria from both lists are met.
Online treatment for ADHD
Treatment for ADHD online looks very similar to receiving treatment in person.
When you meet with a psychiatrist online, they will evaluate your symptoms. Whether you’ve been managing ADHD for some time or just suspect that you might have it, they will listen to your medical history and have you describe your current challenges. They’ll ask questions that will help them determine if you meet the criteria for ADHD.
If they believe you have an ADHD diagnosis, your provider will begin to work with you on a treatment plan. If medication is appropriate, they will go over your options and prescribe the medication or combination of medications that they recommend. You will continue to receive ongoing care from your doctor after your initial evaluation; so you can discuss with them how your symptoms are improving, as well as any side effects or challenges you may be experiencing.
Many people find that a combination of both medication and therapy is best when it comes to managing their ADHD symptoms. Meeting with a therapist online is just as effective as seeing one in person, and you’ll have the flexibility to attend sessions from the comfort of your home. Therapists will also discuss your symptoms and experiences with you, and they can help you develop skills and strategies to better manage your ADHD.
Medication management for ADHD
There are several medications that can be prescribed to help with symptoms of ADHD. Mindful Care does not prescribe stimulants, but we will help you find an alternative treatment that is safe and effective.
The FDA has approved 4 non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD:
- Strattera (atomoxetine)
- Intuniv (guanfacine)
- Kapvay (clonidine)
- Qelbree (viloxazine)
In addition, some antidepressants may be prescribed off-label for ADHD. While the FDA has not approved the drugs for this specific use, there is evidence that they can help safely alleviate some ADHD symptoms.
- Wellbutrin (bupropion)
- Effexor (venlafaxine)
Therapy for ADHD
Psychotherapy can be extremely effective in managing symptoms of ADHD.
A qualified therapist can help support you with behavioral interventions, including learning about helpful ways to manage impulses or developing skills to better manage executive functions.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown to be successful in treating ADHD symptoms. Symptoms of ADHD can have a significant impact on one’s life; from academic performance to relationships to daily functioning. Because of that impact, it’s common for people with ADHD to develop patterns of negative thinking. CBT can help disrupt those patterns, by recognizing certain thoughts as distorted and replacing them with more realistic thinking.
Does online treatment work for ADHD?
Yes, online treatment for ADHD works.
In most cases, medication management via telehealth and virtual psychotherapy are equally as effective as in-person care. It can also make it easier to schedule and keep your appointments, since the timing can be flexible and there’s no added inconvenience of traveling to see your providers.
Next steps
If you’re looking for online or in-person treatment for ADHD, you don’t have to wait long to get the support you need. Make an appointment to receive expert care from qualified therapists and psychiatrists same or next-day.
Sources
Data and Statistics About ADHD | CDC
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR)
What medications are used to treat ADHD? | NIH MedlinePlus Magazine
Treating and Dealing with ADHD | FDA
Bupropion for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults - PMC
How CBT Dismantles ADHD Negativity: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Overview
