Treatments

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

(ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. People with ADHD may have difficulty with attention, focus, organization, and controlling impulses. Some also experience hyperactivity—feeling the need to move or talk constantly. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating ADHD, but many effective options are available. Most treatment plans include a combination of the following:

Medication

  • Stimulant medications (like Adderall or Ritalin) are often prescribed and can help improve focus and self-control. Non-stimulant options are also available for those who don't respond well to stimulants or prefer alternatives.

Therapy

  • Behavioral therapy can help individuals develop better coping skills, organization strategies, and manage impulsive behaviors. Therapy may also support emotional well-being, especially if there are co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression.

Lifestyle & Support Strategies

  • Coaching and skills training for time management and organization.

  • School accommodations for students, such as extra time on tests or help staying on task.

  • Family education to support a positive home environment.

Anxiety Disorders

A group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness that can interfere with daily life. While it's normal to feel anxious occasionally—like before a big event or during a stressful situation—people with anxiety disorders experience intense and persistent anxiety that is difficult to control. Anxiety disorders can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. They are among the most common mental health conditions and are highly treatable with the right support.

Effective treatment is available for all anxiety disorders. Most individuals benefit from a combination of approaches tailored to their specific needs:

Medication

  • Antidepressants (such as SSRIs like sertraline or fluoxetine) are commonly prescribed and can help reduce overall anxiety.

  • Anti-anxiety medications (like buspirone or short-term benzodiazepines) may also be used, depending on the diagnosis and symptoms.

Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective, evidence-based approach that helps people recognize and change patterns of thinking that contribute to anxiety.

  • Exposure therapy is particularly helpful for phobias, social anxiety, and panic disorder.

Lifestyle & Support Strategies

  • Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness.

  • Regular exercise and a consistent sleep routine can naturally reduce anxiety symptoms.

  • Support groups or peer connections for shared experiences and encouragement.

  • School or workplace accommodations to reduce performance-related anxiety and support success.

Adjustment Disorder

A stress-related mental health condition that occurs when someone has a strong emotional or behavioral reaction to a major life change or stressful event. While it’s normal to feel upset after a difficult experience, people with Adjustment Disorder experience more intense distress than expected, and it can affect their ability to function in daily life. This condition can affect children, adolescents, and adults. It is often temporary and treatable, especially when recognized early and supported with appropriate care.

Adjustment Disorder can develop in response to a wide variety of stressors, including:

  • Loss of a loved one

  • Divorce or relationship problems

  • Moving to a new place

  • Starting a new school or job

  • Serious illness (in oneself or a loved one)

  • Financial difficulties

  • Natural disasters or traumatic events

The goal of treatment is to help the person adapt to the stressor, reduce symptoms, and return to normal functioning. Most people recover fully with proper support.

Therapy

  • Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is the most common and effective treatment. It provides a safe space to process emotions, develop coping skills, and gain perspective on the situation.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help individuals reframe negative thinking and manage stress more effectively.

  • Family therapy or couples counseling may be helpful if relationship issues are contributing to the distress.

Medication

Medication is not always necessary, but may be used in the short term to help manage symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, or depressed mood, especially if symptoms are severe.

  • Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

  • Medication decisions should always be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Lifestyle & Support Strategies

  • Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, journaling, or deep breathing.

  • Regular physical activity to support mood and reduce tension.

  • Social support from friends, family, or support groups.

  • Time and structure — routines can help create stability during stressful times.

Depression

Major Depressive Disorder is a common and serious mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions. It goes beyond feeling sad or having a “bad day.” Depression involves persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, and can impact sleep, energy, appetite, and overall quality of life. Depression can affect people of any age, background, or gender. It’s not a sign of weakness, and it’s not something someone can just “snap out of.” The good news is: depression is treatable, and most people feel better with the right care.

Depression is treatable, and many people recover fully with a combination of approaches tailored to their needs and preferences.

Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

  • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and social functioning.

  • Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current emotions and behavior.

  • Family or couples therapy may be helpful if relationship issues contribute to symptoms.

Therapy can be short-term or long-term, depending on the severity and type of depression.

Medication

  • Antidepressants such as SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) or SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine) are often effective in reducing symptoms.

  • Other medications may be used depending on individual needs, including atypical antidepressants or mood stabilizers.

  • Medication can take several weeks to work, and should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider.

Lifestyle & Support Strategies

  • Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms.

  • Healthy sleep and nutrition can support emotional well-being.

  • Social connection and support are key—talking to trusted friends, family, or support groups can reduce isolation.

  • Mindfulness, meditation, and journaling may help manage stress and increase self-awareness.

    Depression is treatable, and no one has to go through it alone. Whether symptoms are mild or severe, short-term or ongoing, reaching out for professional help is the first step toward healing. Many people begin to feel better with therapy, medication, lifestyle changes—or a combination of all three.

Bipolar Disorder

Both forms of bipolar disorder involve episodes of elevated mood and possible depression, but they differ in how severe the high moods are and whether or not the patient has experienced a major depressive episode :

  • Bipolar I Disorder is defined by at least one manic episode, which may or may not be preceded or followed by depressive episodes. Mania can be so severe that it may require hospitalization or cause major disruptions in life.

  • Bipolar II Disorder involves at least one hypomanic episode (a milder form of mania) and at least one major depressive episode. People with Bipolar II do not experience full manic episodes, but the depressive symptoms can be just as severe—if not more so—than in Bipolar I.

    Common Symptoms

    Manic or Hypomanic Episodes:

    • Feeling unusually elated, “high,” or irritable

    • Increased energy, activity, or restlessness

    • Racing thoughts or rapid speech

    • Decreased need for sleep

    • Impulsivity or poor decision-making (e.g., spending sprees, risky behavior)

    • Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity

    Mania (Bipolar I) is more intense, often lasting at least a week and causing major problems at work, in relationships, or requiring hospitalization.
    Hypomania (Bipolar II) is less severe and usually doesn’t cause major life disruption.

    Treatment for Bipolar Disorder is highly individualized but usually includes a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle support.

    Medication

    Medication is a central part of managing bipolar disorder:

    • Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium, valproate, lamotrigine) help prevent extreme highs and lows.

    • Antipsychotics may be used during manic or mixed episodes.

    • Antidepressants may be prescribed cautiously—often in combination with a mood stabilizer—to avoid triggering mania or hypomania.

    • Sleep medications or anti-anxiety medications may be used short-term for symptom relief.

    All medications should be managed by a qualified provider familiar with bipolar disorder.

    Therapy

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals manage symptoms, cope with stress, and recognize mood changes early.

    • Psychoeducation: Teaches patients and families about the condition, triggers, and warning signs.

    • Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): Focuses on stabilizing daily routines and sleep patterns to reduce mood episodes.

    • Family-focused therapy: Can improve communication and reduce family-related stressors that might trigger episodes.

    Lifestyle & Support Strategies

    • Routine is key. Regular sleep, meals, and daily schedules can help prevent mood episodes.

    • Avoid substance use, which can trigger or worsen symptoms.

    • Track moods using apps or journals to identify early warning signs of shifts.

    • Build a support network—friends, family, or peer groups can be vital during both highs and lows.Depressive Episodes:

    • Persistent sadness or emptiness

    • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

    • Fatigue or low energy

    • Sleep problems (too much or too little)

    • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

    • Difficulty concentrating

    • Thoughts of death or suicide