ADHD Questions
How do you fix executive function ADHD?
Charles Li, MD
May 18, 2023
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Many individuals with ADHD have difficulties with executive function, particularly with self-control.
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Deficits in executive function can lead to challenges at work and in everyday life.
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Medications have been shown to help with self-control in ADHD, particularly emotional control.
While attention and hyperactivity symptoms define ADHD, there is increasing recognition that executive function plays a vital role in the effects of ADHD.
Executive function covers your higher levels of thought processes. It is typically described as your mind's management or executive branch.
What is executive function?
These functions include self-control, inhibition, and attention, which are often compromised in those with ADHD.
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There is general agreement that there are three core EFs....inhibition [inhibitory control, including self-control (behavioral inhibition) and interference control (selective attention and cognitive inhibition)], working memory (WM), and cognitive flexibility (also called set shifting, mental flexibility, or mental set shifting and closely linked to creativity). From these, higher-order EFs are built such as reasoning, problem solving, and planning
Impairments in these areas, common among those with ADHD, often lead to difficulties with everyday life at home and work.
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Although EFs are
complex, their impairment constitutes a syndrome
that can be recognized readily in clinical practice;
impaired EF involves a pattern of chronic difficulties in executing a wide variety of daily tasks.
For example, a study found that those with difficulty inhibiting themselves had more trouble finding and holding jobs:
A study on executive function, ADHD, and employment outcomes, found that those with poor inhibition held fewer jobs, had more trouble with behavior, and quit more jobs due to hostility.
The article below has more information on the effects of executive function and ADHD:
Fixing executive function in ADHD
Studies have shown that it is possible to improve or even fix some executive function deficits in ADHD.
One study in Norway found that adults with ADHD who had been treated with stimulant medication as children are far more likely to be employed than those who were not treated.
Occupational Outcome in Adult ADHD: Impact of Symptom Profile, Comorbid Psychiatric Problems, and Treatment
Fixing emotional control issues in ADHD
ADHD can also lead to issues with emotional control. Those with ADHD can struggle with keeping strong emotions in check, which can be related to deficits in executive function.
A clinical trial found that Strattera, a non-stimulant medication for ADHD, improved emotional control among adults with ADHD.
ADHD often comes with challenges in regulating emotions. Atomoxetine, a treatment for ADHD can potentially reduce emotional dysregulation symptoms. Additionally, it can help with focus for patients with ADHD and emotional dysregulation.
Another study found that stimulants may be even more effective than Strattera for improving self-control in ADHD. A meta-analysis found that among studies looking at emotional regulation and ADHD, participants who took stimulants tended to have greater improvements in their ability to control their own emotions.
A meta-analysis found that stimulants may be more effective in improving emotional symptoms in ADHD.
Key Takeaways
ADHD is a complex disorder affecting much more than just attention and hyperactivity. Most with ADHD also struggle with self-control and executive function deficits.
Fortunately, ADHD treatment can improve executive function for many with ADHD. In particular, studies have highlighted the benefits of medication on emotional control.
If you or your loved one has ADHD, talk to your healthcare provider. While there is no cure, medications, and therapy can help.