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Informal scoping review examines ADHD treatments in adults, highlighting psychotherapy and occupational therapy.
Objective The aim of the study was to examine evidence-based treatment recommendations for adults diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder commonly diagnosed in childhood, though many individuals are not formally diagnosed until adulthood. An adult diagnosis can be empowering, offering clarity and validation, but may also prompt self-reflection on past educational and social difficulties. However, adult-specific behavioral treatments for ADHD remain limited; experts tend to focus on pediatrics, and many treatment programs are embedded in educational institutions. Method This paper was conducted as an informal scoping review, guided by the framework of a critically appraised topic, which aims to provide concise, evidence-based treatment summaries for clinical use. A literature search--that aligned closely with the methodology of a scoping review--was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO using terms such as ‘ADHD,’ ‘adult,’ ‘behavioral treatment,’ ‘non-pharmacological treatment,’ and ‘therapy.’ Results The literature search returned papers across two primary treatment categories: psychotherapy and occupational therapy (OT). Among papers focused on psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy was found to be the most effective treatment for adult ADHD symptoms. Studies that focused on OT strategies highlighted the importance of developing daily living skills, such as organizing the physical/social environment, promoting social awareness, and encouraging self-regulation strategies. Conclusion The study aimed to develop evidence-based recommendations for neuropsychologists to include in their evaluation reports for adult patients with ADHD. While findings support psychotherapy and OT interventions, future research and development are still necessary to ensure adults with ADHD continue to receive comprehensive and timely care.
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Carter et al. (2025) studied this question.
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