Reduced ADHD symptoms in adults with ADHD after structured skills training group: results from a randomized controlled trial

Objective: Feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) -based method developed in Germany were evaluated in a Swedish outpatient psychiatric context.

Method: Fifty-one adults with ADHD on stable medical treatment or on no medication were randomized to the DBT-based skills training (n=26) or a parallel loosely structured discussion group (n=25). Self-rating scales were administered before randomization and after the treatment.

Results: Feasibility and participant satisfaction were good in both groups while skills training was perceived as more logical and effective for ADHD-related problems. The analyses of the individuals who completed the treatment and remained stable with regard to medication (n=19 in skills training; n=18 in control group) showed a significant reduction in ADHD symptoms in the skills training group, but not in the control group. No reduction of comorbidity was observed in any of the groups.

Conclusions: The treatment was feasible in an outpatient psychiatric context, well tolerated, and significantly reduced ADHD symptoms in on-treatment individuals who remained stable regarding medication status.