6 Options After an ADHD Diagnosis
So you went to a doctor and got diagnosed with ADHD. What are your options?
If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, there are several options available to help manage your symptoms and improve your daily life.
Just remember, you can always try something, see if it works for you, then keep what works in your life.
You don’t have to be tied down to one coping mechanism at all times. Here are some possible options to consider:
- Medication
- Prescription medications, such as stimulants and non-stimulants, can be effective in reducing ADHD symptoms. Your doctor can help determine which medication is right for you and how to properly take it.
- Therapy
- Behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and coaching can help you learn coping strategies and improve your executive functioning skills.
- Lifestyle changes
- Making changes to your lifestyle, such as improving your sleep habits, exercise routine, and diet, can help alleviate ADHD symptoms.
- Support groups
- Joining a support group can provide you with a sense of community and offer helpful tips for managing ADHD.
- Accommodations
- Talk to your school or employer about possible accommodations, such as extra time on exams or breaks during the workday, that can help you better manage your ADHD symptoms.
- Nothing
- While a previous option or combination of options might work for some people, you might choose not to do any of the above, and that’s okay.
- You can live your life how you were living. If your lifestyle works for you, congratulations! If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
It is important to work with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
Try one option at a time. If something works, keep it, if something doesn’t work, let it go. You’ll eventually find which combination of coping mechanisms works best.
