What are the treatment options for adults with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD?

PostedSeptember 15, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 17, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Treatment options for ADHD in adults with a hyperactive-impulsive profile include a blend of medication, behavioural strategies, and psychological support. Since adult life comes with new demands, work pressures, relationship dynamics, and self-management, ADHD treatment must be tailored to suit these evolving needs.

Medication, typically stimulants or non-stimulants, is often part of the plan, but it’s only one piece. Adults also benefit from structured approaches to improve executive function, such as time management tools, digital calendars, or coaching to build routines. These supports are especially valuable in managing forgetfulness, disorganisation, and the impulse to jump from task to task.

Expanding support beyond medication

Here’s how non-medication approaches can enhance long-term success:

Therapy options
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps with planning, self-monitoring, and building healthier habits, all while addressing common challenges like anxiety or low motivation.

Focus on emotional regulation
Adults with ADHD often experience intense emotions or frustration. Learning how to pause and reframe reactions can reduce conflict at work or at home.

Build accountability systems
Whether through peer support, coaching, or apps, external structure helps keep momentum on long-term goals.

ADHD treatment in adulthood must be tailored, evolving alongside an individual’s responsibilities, abilities, and personal challenges. As awareness of ADHD in adults continues to grow, so does the range of tools and resources available to support them. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personalised assessments and adult-focused care.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Hyperactive‑Impulsive ADHD .

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.