ADHD/ADD Support for Adults

Key takeaways

  • In adults, ADHD often looks like disorganization, overwhelm, or forgetfulness, rather than hyperactivity seen in children
  • When ADHD goes untreated, it can affect other parts of life, including work, relationships, finances, and emotional health
  • Experts at Montage Health offer adult ADHD treatment to help you improve focus, daily skills, and overall quality of life

Summary

Find compassionate adult ADHD/ADD treatment in Monterey County at Montage Health. Our team helps you make sense of symptoms and find a treatment plan that fits your goals.

Many adults go years feeling overwhelmed or scattered without knowing that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD/ADD) might be part of the story. At Montage Health, we offer adult ADHD treatment that’s supportive and centered around your lived experience.

If ADHD has crossed your mind, now is a good time to seek support. As life gets busier and responsibilities pile up, symptoms can become more noticeable. Getting help early can prevent stress, anxiety, and burnout from taking over.

Symptoms of untreated ADHD in adults

ADHD doesn’t always appear as hyperactivity. In adults, the signs are often more subtle and easier to overlook. You might find yourself:

  • Accidentally talking over others
  • Feeling mentally overloaded
  • Feeling restless, worn out, or like you’re always catching up
  • Misplacing things or forgetting appointments
  • Missing deadlines or losing track of time
  • Starting projects but having trouble finishing
  • Struggling to decide which tasks to tackle first

ADHD vs. anxiety in adults

It’s common to wonder whether you’re dealing with ADHD, anxiety, or both. While there’s some overlap, each condition can affect you differently.

ADHD may feel like:

  • A brain that jumps from idea to idea
  • Difficulty staying organized
  • Distractibility
  • Forgetfulness
  • Impulsivity or restlessness

Anxiety may feel like:

  • Constant worry
  • Difficulty relaxing or sleeping
  • Fear of making mistakes
  • Overthinking
  • Physical tension

Adults can have both conditions, which is why a thorough evaluation matters. At Montage Health, we take time to explore your full experience, not just your symptoms.

Possible outcomes from not treating ADHD in adulthood

Struggles related to ADHD can feel personal, but they’re often the result of trying to manage your condition without support. You may experience:

  • Chronic stress
  • Increased risk of anxiety, depression, or substance abuse
  • Low self-esteem
  • Poor judgment or decision-making
  • Sleep problems
  • Strained communication with friends and family
  • Trouble with your career or finances

What can I do if I think I have ADHD?

You don’t have to make big changes to feel a little more balanced each day. These small adjustments are a good place to start:

  • Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night
  • Break bigger tasks into smaller steps
  • Choose designated spots for important items
  • Create a simple daily routine to reduce decision fatigue
  • Cut down on distractions during work or study
  • Get up to stretch or move throughout the day
  • Use a planner, calendar reminders, or apps to keep track of things

These strategies can help you cope, but they’re not a substitute for professional support. Reach out to a provider if:

  • Stress is causing emotional or physical symptoms
  • Symptoms interfere with work, relationships, or self-care
  • You feel overwhelmed more often than not
  • You think anxiety, depression, or another concern is also present

How is adult ADHD treated?

At Montage Health, your care begins with a thoughtful evaluation. A provider will talk with you about your symptoms, health history, and daily experiences to understand what’s going on and rule out other possible causes. They may use psychological tests to gather additional information. Depending on your diagnosis and needs, treatment may include:

  • Medication to improve focus
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to build effective routines
  • Lifestyle strategies for sleep, nutrition, and stress
  • Skills-based coaching for organization and time management
  • Support for anxiety or depression, if present

Our experts use evidence-based therapies to help you feel less overwhelmed and learn how to follow through on the things that matter to you. Many people notice improvements in their relationships, work performance, financial habits, and overall well-being. No two people experience ADHD the same way, so we’ll work with you to create a plan that makes sense for your life.

People also ask

Can adults develop ADHD later in life?

ADHD doesn’t suddenly start in adulthood, but it can become easier to notice as life gets busier or usual coping tools stop working. For many adults, the signs were misunderstood or overlooked earlier in life.

Will I need medication to treat ADHD?

Not always. Medication can be helpful for some people, but it’s only one option. Treatment can also include therapy, lifestyle changes, and skills-based support. Your provider will walk you through all the options and help you decide what feels right for you.

How can I talk to my employer or family about ADHD?

Sharing your diagnosis is a personal choice, and there’s no single right way to do it. Many adults start by explaining what kinds of support or small adjustments could help them function better day-to-day. Your therapist can help you think through the conversation and advocate for yourself.

Contact us

    For nonurgent care contact Mental Health Services at

    (831) 625-4600 

    Upcoming classes and events

    Explore our classes and events — most are FREE to the community.

    • Ongoing
      This group is designed to teach skills that can help reduce worry and enhance quality of life. You'll learn about what contributes to worry and ways to effectively cope. This is a six-week group held Tuesdays, 2–3:30 p.m.
    • Ongoing
      This skills-based group teaches strategies to reduce depressive symptoms and enhance quality of life. Anyone who has experienced depression in the past or is currently finding it challenging to manage symptoms is welcome. This six-week group is held Thursdays, 2–3:30 p.m. Participants are welcome to join at any point during the six weeks.