Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often first recognized and diagnosed during youth, but symptoms can persist into and affect adulthood. A 2023 study found that 6% of adults in the U.S. have a diagnosis for ADHD, and about half received their diagnoses in adulthood. 

What does ADHD look like?

Here are some common signs and symptoms of diagnosed ADHD, and what to look for: 

• Attention difficulties — Trouble staying focused on tasks or activities, difficulty staying engaged when someone is speaking, struggling to finish tasks once started, difficulty following instructions, being easily distracted 
• Hyperactivity — Constant fidgeting or squirming, difficulty sitting still, restlessness 
• Impulsivity — Blurting out answers, interrupting others, difficulty waiting your turn, talking excessively

What does it mean to have executive dysfunction in ADHD? 

Executive dysfunction describes a group of behavioral, cognitive and emotional difficulties in completing tasks that have to do with planning, organizing, problem-solving or regulating emotions. Executive dysfunction might look like forgetting or missing appointments, losing or forgetting keys, and/or having difficulty starting tasks or keeping your space organized. 

While executive dysfunction is not a stand-alone clinical diagnosis, it is a common feature of ADHD. If you’re experiencing these challenges, Reklame Health can help. 

How to treat executive dysfunction in ADHD 

Medication can be an effective way of treating ADHD. ADHD medications are often split into two categories: stimulants and nonstimulants. 

• Stimulants

Stimulant medications work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine — neurotransmitters involved in the brain’s reward pathways and body’s stress response. This helps improve focus, attention and impulse control. Stimulants typically take effect quickly and have been shown to be effective for 70%-80% of adults and children. 

• Nonstimulants

Nonstimulants work by increasing norepinephrine levels, helping to manage ADHD symptoms, but without some of the potential side effects associated with stimulants. They can be prescribed on their own or used alongside stimulant medications when additional support is needed. 

6 ADHD medication options to support daily functioning 

• Adderall — This is a commonly prescribed amphetamine, a type of psychostimulant often used as a first-line medication for treating ADHD.
• Ritalin — Ritalin (or Focalin, another medication in the same class) may be prescribed instead of amphetamines.
• Catapres — This is an alpha-2 agonist, which reduces some activity in the central nervous system. 
• Atomoxetine — Atomoxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), a commonly prescribed nonstimulant option for ADHD. 
• Wellbutrin — This is an atypical antidepressant that can be used off label to help with ADHD by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine. 
• Qelbree — This is another extended-released ADHD medication. Qelbree, also known by its generic name viloxazine, is a nonstimulant option. It also can have some effects on serotonin levels, helping anxiety and depression symptoms.

It can seem hard to know which type of medication is the right one for you. At ReKlame, we offer psychiatric medication management. Members work with a care team consisting of a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a care navigator. Your psychiatric nurse practitioner can prescribe medication, assess how you’re doing and make any adjustments to medications as needed. Your care navigator will get you scheduled for any upcoming appointments or check-ins. 

ReKlame is here to support you today

If you think you’re struggling with executive dysfunction due to ADHD, you don’t have to deal with it alone. You deserve to get empathetic support from understanding and caring professionals. 

Diverse professionals and treatments are needed for culturally responsive care. Racial discrimination is something that can affect both cognitive and executive functioning skills. At ReKlame, our team is especially experienced in working with BIPOC and minority communities. Our experts embrace modern, evidence-based treatment to support people from all walks of life. 

We can connect you with a psychiatric care team that can create a treatment plan based on your individual needs and treatment goals. By empowering our members throughout their mental health journey, our experts aim to break the stigma around mental health. You’ve got this. Appointments are available — give our care team a call today. For more information, check your eligibility for free online or book an initial session online.