ADHD Treatments in Surry Hills: Medications, Psychological Support and Ongoing Care
In our earlier article, ” ADHD Assessment and Diagnosis in Surry Hills: A Surry Hills Doctors GP Guide”, we discussed common ADHD symptoms, the different types of ADHD, diagnostic pathways, and the recent increase in ADHD diagnoses across Australia. This article focuses on ADHD treatments, medications, psychological therapies and ongoing care for adults, adolescents and children living in Surry Hills, Paddington, Darlinghurst, Redfern, Alexandria, Green Square, Woollahra and surrounding inner Sydney suburbs.
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis is often life changing. Many people finally understand why they have struggled with concentration, organisation, time management, impulsivity or emotional regulation despite years of effort.
The good news is that ADHD is one of the most treatable neurodevelopmental conditions. With an individualised treatment plan, many patients experience significant improvements in their work performance, study, relationships and overall quality of life.
At Crown St Medical Centre, our experienced GPs understand that successful ADHD management involves much more than simply prescribing medication. The best outcomes usually combine medication, education, psychological support, lifestyle strategies and regular medical follow-up.
Whether you are searching online for Surry Hills Doctors, Surry Hills Medical Practice, Surry Hills Medical Centre, Darlinghurst doctors, or an experienced GP providing ongoing ADHD care, Crown St Medical Centre provides comprehensive, patient-centred care close to home.
Is Medication Always Required?
Not everyone diagnosed with ADHD requires medication.
Some patients with relatively mild symptoms achieve excellent results through behavioural strategies, psychological therapy, workplace adjustments, educational support and lifestyle changes.
Others with moderate or severe ADHD find medication dramatically improves their ability to function at work, university, school and home.
The decision to commence medication depends upon several factors including:
- Severity of ADHD symptoms
- Degree of impairment in everyday life
- Medical history
- Cardiovascular risk factors
- Individual preferences
- Occupational requirements
- Pregnancy planning or breastfeeding
- Other mental health conditions
Medication should always be viewed as one component of a comprehensive ADHD management plan rather than the only treatment.
ADHD Medications Available in Australia
The medications used to treat ADHD generally fall into two broad categories.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants remain the first-line treatment for many children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with ADHD.
Despite their name, stimulant medications improve attention, concentration and impulse control by increasing dopamine and noradrenaline activity in areas of the brain responsible for executive functioning.
When prescribed appropriately and carefully monitored, stimulant medications may:
- Improve concentration
- Increase task completion
- Reduce distractibility
- Reduce impulsive behaviour
- Improve organisation
- Enhance productivity
- Improve quality of life
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is available in both immediate-release and long-acting formulations.
Benefits may include:
- Improved concentration
- Better organisation
- Reduced impulsivity
- Improved workplace productivity
- Better academic performance
Long-acting preparations frequently provide symptom control throughout the working or school day while reducing the need for multiple daily doses.
Lisdexamfetamine and Dexamphetamine
These medications also increase dopamine and noradrenaline activity and are widely prescribed for adolescents and adults with ADHD.
Many patients appreciate the smoother symptom control provided by long-acting formulations, while others benefit from shorter-acting medications depending upon their daily routine.
Finding the most suitable medication often requires several reviews with your treating psychiatrist before the optimal treatment is established.
Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications
Not everyone is suitable for stimulant medication.
Non-stimulant medications may be considered when:
- Stimulants are ineffective
- Side effects become problematic
- Certain medical conditions exist
- There are concerns regarding misuse
- Patients prefer non-stimulant treatment
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine works differently to stimulant medications by increasing noradrenaline activity within the brain.
Unlike stimulants, improvement usually occurs gradually over several weeks.
Atomoxetine may be particularly suitable for patients with ADHD and anxiety or those unable to tolerate stimulant medications.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is commonly used in children and adolescents and may improve:
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
- Emotional regulation
Other Medications
Some patients with ADHD and co-existing anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions may benefit from additional medications prescribed by their psychiatrist or GP as part of an individualised treatment plan.
Benefits of ADHD Medication
Many patients notice meaningful improvements after commencing appropriate medication.
Potential benefits include:
- Improved attention and concentration
- Better memory
- Increased productivity
- Improved organisation
- Reduced procrastination
- Better emotional regulation
- Reduced impulsive decision-making
- Improved work performance
- Improved academic outcomes
- Better relationships
- Increased confidence
- Improved driving safety
Medication does not alter a person’s intelligence or personality.
Rather, many patients describe finally being able to perform to their true potential.
Common Side Effects of ADHD Medication
Like all prescription medicines, ADHD medications may cause side effects.
Fortunately, most side effects are mild, temporary and often improve following dose adjustment.
Reduced Appetite
Loss of appetite is one of the most common side effects.
Some patients experience:
- Weight loss
- Reduced daytime appetite
- Skipping meals
Helpful strategies include eating breakfast before medication, planning nutritious evening meals and monitoring weight regularly.
Difficulty Sleeping
Some patients experience insomnia, particularly if stimulant medications are taken later in the day.
Management may include:
- Earlier dosing
- Medication adjustment
- Improving sleep hygiene
- Reducing caffeine intake
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is relatively common.
Simple measures include:
- Drinking water regularly
- Sugar-free chewing gum
- Good oral hygiene
Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Stimulant medications may cause modest increases in blood pressure and heart rate.
Regular monitoring is therefore recommended before and throughout treatment.
Patients with significant cardiovascular disease may require further assessment, including ECG testing where appropriate.
Anxiety
Some individuals experience increased anxiety early in treatment, while others notice anxiety improves as ADHD symptoms become better controlled.
Regular review with your treating doctor helps determine the most appropriate treatment.
Headaches
Mild headaches sometimes occur during the first few weeks of treatment but frequently settle with time.
Mood Changes
Occasionally patients report:
- Irritability
- Emotional sensitivity
- Mood fluctuations
These symptoms should always be discussed with your treating doctor.
Less Common Side Effects
Less commonly, patients may experience:
- Tics
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Dizziness
- Skin reactions
- Significant mood changes
Patients should never stop or alter prescribed medication without discussing changes with their treating doctor.
Ongoing Monitoring is Essential
Successful ADHD treatment requires ongoing review.
Regular follow-up appointments allow your GP and psychiatrist to assess:
- Symptom improvement
- Medication effectiveness
- Side effects
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate
- Weight
- Sleep quality
- Mental health
- Workplace or educational performance
Medication doses frequently require adjustment during the first few months before the most effective regimen is established.
At Crown St Medical Centre, our GPs work collaboratively with psychiatrists to provide ongoing, patient-centred ADHD care for eligible patients in accordance with current NSW prescribing requirements.
If you already have an established ADHD diagnosis from a psychiatrist or paediatrician and are receiving ongoing treatment, our doctors can discuss appropriate shared-care arrangements where clinically suitable.
Psychological Therapies for ADHD
Medication is only one aspect of comprehensive ADHD management.
Many patients also benefit from psychological therapies that provide practical strategies for managing everyday challenges.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT may help patients:
- Develop organisational skills
- Reduce procrastination
- Improve emotional regulation
- Manage anxiety
- Address unhelpful thinking patterns
ADHD Coaching
Professional ADHD coaches assist patients with:
- Time management
- Goal setting
- Workplace productivity
- Accountability
- Daily routines
Parent Education
Parents of children with ADHD often benefit from practical education programs that improve:
- Behaviour management
- Communication
- Emotional regulation
- Daily routines
Educational Support
Children and adolescents with ADHD may benefit from:
- Individual learning plans
- Classroom modifications
- Teacher support
- Examination adjustments where appropriate
Lifestyle Strategies That Can Improve ADHD
Healthy lifestyle habits complement medical treatment.
Patients are encouraged to:
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise has been shown to improve attention, executive functioning and mood.
Prioritise Sleep
Poor sleep frequently worsens ADHD symptoms.
Maintaining consistent sleep routines is an important part of treatment.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Although no specific diet cures ADHD, maintaining good nutrition supports overall brain health.
Reduce Alcohol and Recreational Drug Use
Alcohol and recreational drugs may worsen ADHD symptoms and interfere with prescribed medications.
Develop Organisational Systems
Helpful strategies include:
- Digital calendars
- Reminder applications
- Task lists
- Time-blocking
- Medication reminders
- Visual planners
These practical tools often complement medication extremely well.
ADHD Treatment Should Always Be Individualised
Every person’s ADHD journey is unique.
Some patients achieve excellent symptom control with medication alone, while others benefit most from combining medication with psychological therapy, ADHD coaching and lifestyle modification.
Regular review allows treatment to evolve as circumstances change throughout life.
At Crown St Medical Centre, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs.
Whether you live in Surry Hills, Paddington, Darlinghurst, Redfern, Alexandria, Green Square or Woollahra, our experienced GPs are committed to helping patients manage ADHD safely and effectively through collaborative, long-term care.
If you are looking for a Surry Hills Medical Centre, Surry Hills Doctors, Surry Hills Medical Practice, or Darlinghurst doctors with experience in ongoing ADHD management, our team is here to help.
Book an appointment online today at: https://crownstmedicalcentre.com.au/book/
At Crown St Medical Centre, we are committed to delivering accessible, personalised healthcare for the Surry Hills community and surrounding inner Sydney suburbs.
Last medically reviewed: 12 August 2026
Reviewed by: Doctors at Crown St Medical Centre – Surry Hill’s Trusted Medical Centre
Location: Crown Street, Surry Hills NSW
