When people think about a person with Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), they envision a child who fails to sit still. The most common symptoms of ADHD are difficulty paying attention, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity; however, people with ADHD often experience fatigue.

Causes of ADHD and fatigue

Since ADHD affects motivation, people with ADHD find it difficult and overwhelming to complete daily tasks. The low sense of motivation is similar to fatigue, especially if a person fails to fulfill his or her responsibilities.

Moreover, people with ADHD often experience high levels of stress which can lead to overall feelings of exhaustion, especially if they cannot control their symptoms. Unable to meet deadlines or complete schoolwork may result in additional stress and can cause fatigue.

People experiencing ADHD may have anxiety and depression. These mental health disorders also result in fatigue and excessive sleeping. That is why people with ADHD must consult doctors for proper treatment. Doctors can analyze their symptoms and treat them accordingly.

How to reduce tiredness in adults experiencing ADHD?

There are numerous effective ways to reduce fatigue in ADHD. The most common way is through medication. However, several coping strategies help fight fatigue as well. Some common non-medical interventions that can help reduce fatigue include time management, planning, and organization.

The objective of these interventions is to conserve brainpower for completing daily tasks without struggling throughout the day. It also allows the individual to achieve simple tasks without feeling stressed.

Treatment and management

People with ADHD can thrive with the proper support and treatment. Often the best approach combines different options such as medication and family support.

There are many effective treatment options that can help people with ADHD cope with the disorder:

Medication:

Medications such as stimulants can be extremely helpful for ADHD.  Some other medications, such as antidepressants, can also help relieve stress and facilitate sleep. Understanding the correct drug choice and drug dosage usually takes time, so collaborating with your doctor is essential.

Therapy:

Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, can also be very helpful for managing ADHD. It helps understand their diagnosis, develop coping methods, and manage their symptoms. Therapy also helps in establishing new relationships while maintaining the older ones.

For example, couples therapy can help couples where one spouse experiences ADHD understand their symptoms and develop effective coping strategies.

Education and training:

Parents of children (or spouses in couples with) ADHD can benefit from additional education and training so they can better understand and manage more effectively the symptoms of their loved ones. Some therapeutic approaches that have helped families effectively deal with ADHD when a family member has ADHD include ADHD education programs, family therapy, and parent training programs.

Accommodations:

Changing the work, school or home environment to minimize stress and distractions can help people manage ADHD symptoms.  There may be other specific accommodations recommended by your provider, so discussing your situation and needs is important in ongoing care.

The Bottom Line

ADHD has numerous risk factors. It can cause anxiety and depression. People with ADHD often undergo severe stress that may result in unwanted social and occupational consequences. Since ADHD is itself a stressful disorder, it is essential to treat it in a manner that helps in releasing tension and provides a peaceful environment for the patient to live in.

Well Coast providers specialize in comprehensive treatment for ADHD.  Contact us today at (833) 931-1716 to find out how we can help!