So, you’ve realised your brain is more chaotic genius than organised planner, and you’re wondering what to do about it. ADHD treatment isn’t just about popping a pill and suddenly becoming a productivity machine (though wouldn’t that be nice?).
Nope—treating ADHD is like making the perfect cup of tea. Everyone has their own method, and what works for one person might be completely wrong for another (don’t even mention microwaving tea).
Let’s break down the main ADHD treatment options—the good, the bad, and the ones that make you think, hmm, that sounds a bit too much like witchcraft.
First Things First: Do You Have to Get Treatment?
Short answer: No. ADHD isn’t an illness—it’s a different way of thinking. Some people find they can manage fine with strategies alone, while others benefit hugely from medical support. It’s a personal choice, and no one should make you feel guilty for whatever you decide.
Long answer: If ADHD genuinely affects your daily life, it’s worth at least exploring options—whether that’s medication, therapy, or lifestyle changes.
Medication: The Big Decision 💊
When people think of ADHD treatment, they usually picture stimulant medication—either with excitement (“finally, focus!”) or fear (“will it change my personality?”).
🔹 How It Works: ADHD meds help regulate dopamine levels, making it easier to focus, plan, and control impulses. Instead of chasing distractions like an overexcited puppy, your brain can actually stick to the task at hand.
🔹 Types of Medication Available in the UK:
| Medication Type | Common Brands | How It Works |
| Stimulants ⚡ | Elvanse (Vyvanse), Concerta, Ritalin | Boosts dopamine levels quickly—great for focus but can affect appetite and sleep. |
| Non-Stimulants 🧘 | Strattera, Guanfacine | Slower acting, less intense, but helps with emotional regulation and anxiety. |
| Off-Label Meds ❓ | Bupropion, Modafinil | Not officially ADHD meds, but some people find them helpful (GPs don’t always prescribe them). |
🔹 The Struggle:
• NHS waiting lists for ADHD meds can be 6+ months, even after diagnosis.
• Some GPs refuse to prescribe them (especially for adults).
• Private prescriptions are quicker but can cost £100+ per month.
💡 Best Approach: If you want to try meds, be persistent. If your GP isn’t supportive, ask for a different doctor.
Therapy & Coaching: The Brain MOT 🧠
Medication helps, but it won’t teach you how to manage your ADHD. That’s where therapy and coaching come in.
🔹 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Available on the NHS (eventually), CBT helps retrain unhelpful thought patterns (e.g., perfectionism, procrastination).
🔹 ADHD Coaching – More practical than therapy, ADHD coaches help with real-life strategies (e.g., getting out of “panic mode” before deadlines).
🔹 Talking Therapy – Useful if ADHD has affected your self-esteem, relationships, or mental health.
💡 The UK Struggle: NHS therapy waiting lists are brutal—expect to wait months or even years. Private therapy is quicker but pricey (£40–£120 per session).
🔹 Best Approach: If NHS therapy is too slow, look for low-cost alternatives, like local mental health charities or free CBT workbooks (e.g., from Mind).
Lifestyle Changes: Can You “Hack” ADHD?
Some people prefer non-medication methods—either as an alternative or alongside meds. Here’s what actually works (and what’s just wishful thinking).
🔹 Diet & Nutrition: Helpful, But Not a Cure
- Protein-heavy breakfasts – Stops energy crashes later (say goodbye to the ADHD mid-morning slump).
- Omega-3 supplements – Studies show they can help ADHD symptoms, though not as much as medication.
- Reducing sugar & ultra-processed foods – Won’t “cure” ADHD, but avoiding massive sugar crashes can help with focus.
💡 Worth trying? Yes, but don’t expect miracles.
🔹 Exercise: ADHD’s Natural Stimulant 🏃♂️
- Cardio boosts dopamine naturally (which is why many ADHD folks love high-energy activities).
- Even short bursts of movement help focus (hello, desk yoga).
- Heavy lifting or resistance training is great for reducing restlessness.
💡 Worth trying? 100%. Even if you hate exercise, small daily movement makes a difference.
🔹 Supplements & “Natural” Treatments
⚠️ Be wary of “ADHD miracle cures.” There’s no magic herb or supplement that “fixes” ADHD. Some people swear by magnesium, zinc, and iron, but scientific backing is meh.
💡 Worth trying? Maybe, but don’t expect miracles.
Managing ADHD Without Medication: Is It Possible?
Yes, but it’s harder. People who manage ADHD med-free usually rely on:
✔️ Strong structure & routines – Timers, reminders, visual planners—anything to combat forgetfulness.
✔️ External accountability – Body doubling (working with another person), deadline buddies, or coaching.
✔️ ADHD-friendly work setups – Flexibility, varied tasks, and regular movement breaks.
💡 Best approach? If you go med-free, focus on structure, not willpower. ADHD is not about “just trying harder.”
So… What’s the Best Treatment for ADHD?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best ADHD treatment is the one that works for YOU. Some people thrive on meds, others prefer lifestyle changes, and many use a mix of both.
A Good ADHD Treatment Plan Usually Includes:
✅ Medication OR structured strategies (or both)
✅ Routine & structure (especially if you hate structure like moi)
✅ External accountability (coaching, therapy, or ADHD-friendly work setups)
✅ Self-compassion (because ADHD guilt is a real thing)
Final Thoughts: Do What Works for You
ADHD treatment isn’t about “fixing” yourself—it’s about understanding how your brain works and setting yourself up for success. Whether that means taking meds, finding a coach, or just accepting that you’ll always have 37 tabs open, it’s YOUR choice.
So, try things out, experiment, and—most importantly—be kind to yourself. ADHD isn’t about being broken. It’s just a different way of thinking.
And hey, if you made it to the end of this blog without getting distracted—you deserve a medal. 🎖️
Further Reading & Support
• NHS ADHD Overview: www.nhs.uk/conditions/ADHD
• ADHD UK (Support & Info): www.adhduk.co.uk
• ADDitude Magazine (Great ADHD Advice): www.additudemag.com
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