ADD & ADHD Health Center

Non-Drug Interventions for Treating Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Non-drug interventions for ADHD include making adjustments in the environment to promote more successful social interactions. Such adjustments include creating more structure and encouraging routines.

Improving and Routines for Childhood ADHD

Children with ADHD may need help in organizing their lives. Therefore, some simple interventions to try for childhood ADHD include:

• Create a schedule. Make sure your child has the same routine every day. The schedule should include homework time and playtime. Post this schedule in a prominent place in the home.
• Help your child organize everyday items. Work with your child to have a place for everything. This includes clothing, backpacks, and school supplies.

Note that children with ADHD need consistent rules that they can easily follow. When your child follows rules, he or she should be rewarded.

Treatments for Adult ADHD

Adult ADHD may be treated with one or more of the following:

• Individual cognitive and behavioral therapy to enhance self-esteem
• Relaxation training and stress management to reduce anxiety and stress
• Behavioral coaching to teach strategies for organizing home and work activities
• Job coaching or mentoring to support better working relationships and improve on-the-job performance
• Family education and therapy