Adult ADHD
Visual Abstract
Psychotherapy of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults--a pilot study using a structured skills training program
ADHD Psychotherapy and Skills Training
Bernd Hesslinger , Ludger Tebartz van Elst, Elisabeth Nyberg, Petra Dykierek, Harald Richter, Michael Berner, Dieter Ebert
Summarized by:
June 9, 2023
study source
Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci
Aug 2002
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What they studied
Does skills training help with symptoms and quality life for those with ADHD?
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What they found
After a skills-based therapy program, adults with ADHD showed improved ADHD symptoms, less depressive symptoms, and felt healthier.
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What this means
This was a small single-armed study. However, the results are consistent with other studies on ADHD and therapy.
Psychotherapy of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults--a pilot study using a structured skills training program
Objectives
ADHD is one of the most common psychiatric conditions among adults. It’s commonly treated with medications, some of the most effective treatments for ADHD. However, medications aren’t a cure. There are often still symptoms remaining, even with medication.
This study examined whether skills training could reduce ADHD symptoms in adults and improve quality of life.
Study Quote
In clinical practice many adult patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) ask for an additional psychotherapeutic intervention besides the medical therapy. In this paper we present a structured skill training program particularly tailored for adult patients with ADHD.
Methods
This study tested whether a skills-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program improved outcomes for adults with ADHD.
This was a small single-armed study on eight adults with ADHD. They provided a standardized therapy program and tested the adults before and after the program.
What is a single-arm study?
Study Quote
The program is based on the principles of cognitive-behavioral treatment for borderline personality disorder developed by M. Linehan. It was modified to suit the special needs of adult patients with ADHD. In this exploratory pilot study we tested this program in a group setting. The fol...
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Results
The results showed that participants had improved ADHD symptoms after receiving skills-based therapy.
They also had less severe depression symptoms and felt healthier.
While the study results appear promising, it is important to remember that this was a small single-armed study. Without a control group, it’s difficult to discern the effectiveness of the specific therapy program.
These results are consistent with other studies on skills-based therapy programs for ADHD. Therapy has been evaluated and shown to be an effective treatment for ADHD, even when used alongside medication.
Study Quote
This treatment resulted in positive outcomes in that patients improved on all psychometric scales.